Northbrook College's S’koolsfest Strikes a Chord with Next-Gen Talent 

There was plenty of rock and roll energy as Northbrook College hosted its annual S’koolsfest celebrations, showcasing music from students in the local area. 

An audience of 380 people packed into the Worthing Pavilion Theatre to watch 21 acts performing rock, pop, indie, brass, jazz, and rap, sharing the same stage as musical greats such as Eric Clapton, David Bowie and The Who. 

The event welcomed 85 young performers in total, from a variety of local secondary schools and colleges in the local area, as well as music students from Northbrook College. 

The very first S’koolsfest was organised by Northbrook College lecturer Mike Pailthorpe, and has evolved into a space for local young people to build confidence, whilst keeping a close sense of community amongst local aspiring musicians. 

Events like this are just one of many organised by Northbrook College, demonstrating its commitment to pushing forward young musicians, nurturing talent, and supporting the arts. 

Harry Papworth, part of the college’s Widening Participation, who helped spearhead the organisation of the event, said: 

“It’s a privilege to be able to offer the next generation of superstars the opportunity to shine on the Pavilion Theatre stage.  

“With new and familiar faces alike rocking up each year to celebrate and support these young performers, I’m beyond grateful and proud of the impact that we as a community are making.” 

The college also received help and support from all the institutions involved, as well as Worthing Festival. 

The event saw young performers take the stage from: 
BN1 Arts, Bohunt School Worthing, Davidson High School, Durrington High School, Northbrook College, BHASVIC, Oak Grove College, Shoreham Academy, Shoreham Allstars, Thomas A Becket Junior School, Varndean School, Worthing High School, Chichester Free School, Bishop Luffa School, Angmering High School, Greenway Junior School, and Our Lady of Sion School, as well as an independent act from We Are Noise. 

To find out more about all the music courses available at the college, please click here. If you are interested in finding out more about the college’s community collaborative outreach work email – wp@gbmc.ac.uk.