Students from three Excalibur Academies Trust’s secondary schools – Ashton Park School, Fairfield High School and Redland Green School – took to the stage for an electrifying night of live music at the iconic Bristol Beacon, as the Trust hosted its first ever ‘Battle of the Bands’.

The evening featured a wide range of performances, from energetic rock sets to powerful vocal performances, delivering an impressive show for the packed audience and highlighting the talent of performers from Year 8 and above. Following the event’s success, there are hopes next year’s competition will grow even bigger, with all six of Excalibur’s secondaries taking part.

Performing on the renowned Bristol Beacon stage was a real privilege for the students, who benefited from professional sound, lighting and staging, giving them a true live music experience.

After careful deliberation, the judges crowned the brilliant ‘Turbo Island’ from Redland Green School as the winning band. Their performance not only secured them the top prize and the opportunity to perform again, but six hours of rehearsal time in a professional studio space.

Richard Uffendell, Headteacher of Ashton Park School, who also served on the panel of judges, comments: “Judging the Battle of the Bands was an exciting and challenging experience. With a representative from each school, we carefully followed our judging criteria while being amazed by the incredible talent and creativity of the students.”

Tim Roderick, Music Teacher at Fairfield High School and co-organiser of the event concludes: “The first Battle of the Bands was a resounding success, celebrating the incredible musical talent of students across the Trust. With such an unforgettable atmosphere, we hope this event will become an annual highlight.”