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The Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir visits THS

Teesside High School was filled with music, laughter and unforgettable memories as we welcomed the Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir from Uganda for a truly special day of cultural exchange and celebration.

Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir

The Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir was founded in 1983 by Molly and Paul Wasswa, two teachers who established the Molly and Paul Christian Schools and The Molly and Paul Child Care Foundation. They tour the UK to raise funds to support and care for orphaned children, young people and their families. This is done through empowering them through education, healthcare, shelter, food and poverty alleviation.

Visit to THS

From the moment they arrived, the small choir of just four talented children brought an incredible energy that lit up the school. Their visit began with a series of interactive workshops, where our Upper Prep, Year 7 and Year 8 students had the chance to learn traditional Ugandan songs, dances and rhythms. It wasn’t long before the whole hall was moving to the beat – a beautiful example of music transcending language and borders.

Beyond the performances, it was the quieter, more personal moments that made the day so meaningful. Over shared meals, our students and the choir members connected through stories, laughter and a shared curiosity about each other’s lives. One of the highlights? Teaming up in Mr Duncalfe’s kitchen to make cheesecake for the choir’s host families – a sweet gesture that brought smiles all around and a few sticky fingers, too, as the choir tasted strawberries for the first time!

In the afternoon, our friends from Uganda were treated to a special visit to our Forest School, where they embraced the great outdoors with enthusiasm. Roasting marshmallows around the fire with Miss Hopkins and enjoying the crisp autumn air created a magical atmosphere of warmth and togetherness.

Evening Concert

The day culminated in a stunning evening concert, where the Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir took to the stage in front of a packed audience. Our new Senior Choir opened the evening with Symphony and special guests Vocal Collective sang four songs at the start of the second half. The vibrant costumes, powerful harmonies and joyous spirit brought the house down. The performance was not only a musical triumph, but a moving reminder of the resilience, talent and joy that shines through in every one of these remarkable young people.

We are incredibly proud to have hosted the choir and so grateful for the lasting memories made. Thank you to all staff, students, host families and, most of all, to our guests from Uganda for sharing your culture, your music and your hearts with us. We are very proud to have raised in the region of £1800 and are very grateful for your generosity in supporting the work of this important foundation in Uganda.

We wish the Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir all the best for the rest of their tour and hope to welcome them back to Teesside High School again in the future.

Mrs Shevels