Westgate Hill Pupils Explore Opera Through Ada and the Code Crusaders

Pupils from Westgate Hill Primary Academy recently enjoyed a memorable live opera experience as English Touring Opera brought its interactive production of Ada and the Code Crusaders to the North East.

Hosted at Atkinson Road Primary Academy, the performance gave Key Stage 2 pupils the opportunity to experience opera in an engaging and interactive setting. The event was funded through Laidlaw+, an initiative to provide extraordinary experiences and build cultural capital for pupils across the Trust

The 45-minute production combined music, storytelling and audience participation, with seven professional performers encouraging pupils to join in throughout the show. Through interactive songs and imaginative staging, pupils developed important communication and character skills including Listening, Speaking and Creativity.

Pupils prepared for the performance in school by learning participatory songs using resources provided by English Touring Opera. Teachers were also supported with lesson ideas and music activities to extend learning beyond the performance. The experience encouraged pupils to build confidence, show Leadership and continue Aiming High through creative opportunities and collaboration.

The event reflects Laidlaw Schools Trust’s commitment to providing enriching cultural experiences that broaden horizons, inspire creativity and encourage pupils to engage with the arts from an early age.

The performance also aligns with the mission of the Laidlaw Opera Trust, which works to make opera and live music accessible to wider audiences through collaboration, sustainability and cultural engagement.