GLF Schools build up to the Boundless Festival

Children from all GLF schools are taking part in a range of events and competitions in the build-up to the Boundless Festival, a chance for pupils to showcase their talent and imagination at the exciting event due to be held at Twickenham Stadium in July. 

Hosted by TV magician and host Ben Hanlin, the Boundless Festival will celebrate the memorable experiences and opportunities beyond the classroom, featuring the culmination of a series of sports competitions, arts and community events across all GLF schools in the South East. 

With over 4,000 pupils involved in the lead-up and more than 10,000 hours of preparation, the Boundless Festival is shaping up to be one of the biggest and most exciting school showcases for the year.

The Boundless Festival is an exciting initiative run by the GLF Schools Foundation. It is a celebration of talent, creativity and opportunity across all 43 schools in the Trust.

Over the past few months, 29 schools have been competing against each other on the football pitch with the finals taking place at Glyn School recently. Congratulations to Aureus Primary School who won the primary competition, and The Beacon School who won the secondary boys and secondary girls’ tournaments.

Pupils from across GLF schools will take to the stage at Twickenham to perform for the first time as the GLF Choir. Children at Cherry Fields Primary School in Banbury are looking forward to their performance in the Boundless Festival Drama Showcase. They have been performing a medley of songs from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ to families and visitors in preparation. The school has been building on the success of its Singing for Children concert, with 25 children now in the choir.

There has been an incredible 736 entries to the art competition, with the quality of work highlighting the amazing creativity and talent. The official announcement of the winners of the art competition will take place at Twickenham in July.

The Boundless Festival will also showcase a Drama contest with schools submitting a 3-minute piece of performing arts, or an individual song, recital or a group performance.

There is also an Eco Challenge category: a project at school focusing on the environment, from growing their own vegetables to recycling projects; winners will be unveiled in July. 

Other events include Netball, Basketball, Mathletics, Chess, a Spelling Bee and a Debating contest. 

Jak Martin, Head of the GLF Schools Foundation, said: “The Boundless Festival is about showcasing talent, opening up opportunities and building confidence in young people. We’re delighted to see such enthusiasm from all the schools involved, and our celebration day at Twickenham Stadium will be a wonderful event for all the students, staff and families involved. From arts and sport to leadership and wellbeing, the GLF Schools Foundation champions every child’s right to a rich and fulfilling education”. 

Established in 2022, the GLF Schools Foundation provides opportunities for pupils at GLF schools to have opportunities and experiences regardless of their financial background. The Foundation aims to minimise the socio-economic barriers that exist, preventing young children from exploring, experiencing, and enjoying a variety of beneficial, healthy activities.