KAStonbury: bringing the community together

The sun shone and the sound-system was turned up to 11 at this year’s KAStonbury. With musical performances from across the school, stalls, games, the forge, grafitti wall, tasty food, cakes and cold beverages, it couldn’t have gone better.

Parent and organiser, Kirsten was beaming (between drawing the raffle and managing the event). She said: “I’m so pleased! We had over 1000 people at KAStonbury, the sun shone, the bands were amazing.”

As well as a showcase for all the amazingly talented students at KAS, the day also raised funds towards the refurbishment of the Orchard Room in the Fives Building. The room will be turned into a multi-station cookery room where children can learn cooking skills to put the ‘Health Minds, Health Bodies’ philosophy into action. Kirsten added, “I’m looking forward to seeing the new cookery room, funded by this event, being used by students across the school.”

Parent Lauren hosted the packed line-up on the main stage: “KAStonbury is fantastic! It’s mind blowing to see all the talent which is on display, we’ve had street dance, cheerleading, electronic music and good old-fashioned rock and roll. The talent that the students have shown today, and also their hard work and dedication, has been really incredible and inspiring. Everybody has pulled it out of the bag and it’s been a wonderful day. And look at the weather, KAStonbury has everything, I am having a blast!”

Lower school musicians took to the stage first with performances ranging from musicals to punk. YR3 band Sabretooth took to the stage claiming they were going to “blow our minds”, and the fact that they were just one of many younger acts owning the stage really did just that!

We were also treated to a dance performance by a fierce group of YR2 girls who showed off their Kung-Fu Fighting skills, and the KAS Jets Cheerleaders flipped and flew their way into everyone’s hearts.

YR2 dancers looking fierce

The Jets practicing their gravity-defying lifts

Upper School students were also out in force showcasing the huge range of musical talent we’re lucky to have at the school. Head of Music Neven was duly proud; “It’s great to see all the performances, they have so much talent and I’m glad they get to show off what they know. Having a great audience to perform to helps them develop their confidence and work on the skill of performance. I am sure they are all going to get so much buzz from this.”

Running the stage was a big job which our Music Technology teacher Dan took on, he was also full of praise for the students, “Students are working really hard and doing an amazing job. I love the feeling of togetherness and the fact that everyone is encouraged to have a go in a non-competitive environment.”

Among the stalls from fabulous creative businesses selling ceramics, food and gifts, our very own Deputy Head of Lower School, James manned an anti-bullying badge stall with a dedicated team of Lower School helpers. There was an amazing cake stall laden with donated treats and a fab display from the Eco Mad Club of all the work they’re doing in Lower School to promote sustainability.

Grace, parent and another of the co-organisers felt it was a huge success; “People sitting around and enjoying the event with their whole family is exactly what we wanted so I’m glad everyone seems to be having a good time.”

We were delighted to welcome back over 30 Old Alfredians in the Squirrel Hall area. There was a lovely mix from those who had left school last year, to those who hadn’t been back for over 20 years. They enjoyed a few drinks in a relaxed atmosphere and were interested to see all the changes in the school buildings since they were at school.  

Old Alfredians soaking up the atmosphere

Parent Phil was enjoying his second KAStonbury and summed it up perfectly; “It’s hot, it’s busy and good vibes!”