A CHESTER school is among the best when it comes to the Bard.

Upton Heath Church of England Primary School has become a gold standard Shakespeare school through its continuing partnership with the Shakespeare Schools Foundation.

The gold standard was awarded to Upton Heath to recognise the school’s dedication and commitment to the arts. The Upton school have participated in the Shakespeare Schools Festival for over seven years, including performing Much Ado About Nothing in November 2020 at the Upton Lane school.

Upton Heath pupils have also had the opportunity to perform in a number of other Shakespeare plays through their participation in the festival each year, including Henry V, Macbeth, Richard III and Twelfth Night.

Pupils also attended the 19th annual Shakespeare Schools Festival in November 2019 at the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton, where Year 6 pupils performed A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Said to be the world’s largest drama festival, the Shakespeare Schools Festival is the Shakespeare Schools Foundation’s flagship project, involving over 750 schools across 118 theatres around the UK and over 20,000 children.

Year 6 teacher Hannah Williams said: “In November, the children did a sensational job of taking on their roles for Much Ado About Nothing, really bringing their characters to life. The cast took part in a workshop from the Shakespeare Schools Foundation team. Great fun was had by all and the children revelled in the experience. We were also able to bring the project into our work, studying several of William Shakespeare’s iconic plays.

“Every year, the children are excited to take part in the Shakespeare Schools Festival. For some children, taking part in the festival opens their eyes to the creative arts, and the opportunities that it presents. Standing up there on a proper stage in front of an audience of friends and family is a momentous moment, and one that they’ll always remember.

Conrad North, headteacher at Upton Heath C of E Primary School, said: “Year 6 is one step away from high school and learning and performing a Shakespeare play builds essential skills for the future, like confidence, resilience and pride.

"Once our whole school was back together in September, rehearsing for Much Ado About Nothing was a good way to start building these skills once more, helping children along their transition journey towards high school. We’re pleased to be continuing our long standing association with the Shakespeare Schools Foundation, providing inspiring opportunities for our children.”