Lucky 13 for Mexborough students as they sweep the board at Rock Challenge contest

Fifty students travelled to Grimsby Auditorium to compete in the Northern Open Rock Challenge Final against nine other schools from across the north and came home with 13 prizes.

Teacher Nichola Taberner said: “Each of the competing schools had won their regional heat and it was a battle of the best Open finalists in the North. 

“After months of rehearsals, set designing, costume-making, fund-raising and winning a place at the final by coming first in the regional heat in Wakefield, all the staff, students and the local community had high hopes for success.  

“But to come away with 13 awards and the overall first place is a huge achievement for the academy and the local community.  

“The Laurel Academy is now a Premier Rock Challenge school meaning they now get an opportunity to compete against the best schools in the north and may have the opportunity to compete for a national title in 2020.”

The theme of this year’s context was given the title Embrace the Rainbow and the theme of acceptance and celebrating everyone’s differences and fighting discrimination.  

“Parents and members of the local community were amazing in providing opportunities for the team to fundraise,” Ms Taberner said. 

“We had bingo evenings, raffles and donations of materials such as wood and paint, as well as financial support.

“We couldn’t have made this final performance better without the support of the local community and parents of the students involved.”

Students were involved as performers or members of the technical crew, including set production, make-up and costume.

“I want to thank all students and staff that were involved in this year’s entry and would like to say a special thank you to all parents and carers of the students who willingly gave up their time to help raise money for this event to take place.

“Plans are already in the pipe line for our entry into the Premier Rock Challenge showcase in 2020 and we are already looking for local sponsorship or donations of materials — if you can help, please contact the academy.”