Pupils swap mobile screens for piano themes!

A school’s ban on pupils using mobile phones has led to pupils filling the void with creativity.

Ysgol Llanfyllin’s Expressive Arts department came up with an innovative idea to help pupils keep their fingers busy whilst they get used to the lack of smart phones – old pianos placed around the school building which are free for all pupils to play at breaks and lunchtimes.

Headteacher, Dewi Owen, said: “The first free piano has proved to be a real hit with pupils and it’s amazing to see normally shy children playing tunes for their fellow pupils and being greeted with applause from their peers.

“Creativity, innovation, the arts and music are really important for a rounded education, and it is so important that we encourage these skills in our pupils.”

The school also encourages pupils to express themselves through their weekly ‘Lunchtime Live’ gigs which are held in the school foyer.

Mr Owen said: “The lunchtime gigs are wonderful. Every Friday we are treated to pupils performing a huge variety of musical genres on a wide range of instruments from a Year 9 boy belting out Sinatra’s ‘My Way’ to twin sisters rocking out with Beatles classics. It is truly wonderful and puts a smile on everyone’s face before the weekend.”

The school was inspired by a similar successful scheme at Solihull School where several old pianos were placed at key points around the school for pupils to use.

If any member of the community has an old piano, which is still playable, they wish to donate to the school please contact office@llanfyllin.powys.sch.uk.

PICTURE: Pupils enjoying an entertaining time at Ysgol Llanfyllin, taken by Phil Blagg.