The vibrant rhythm of samba will soon resonate across a family of schools in York, thanks to a generous donation from the Pavers Foundation.
York-based Excel Learning Trust received the £1500 donation from the Pavers Foundation to develop their Trust Samba Band, giving numerous children the opportunity to engage with music and get involved in a fun, inclusive activity.
Earlier this year the band, which was formed by Clare Hardy, music teacher at Knavesmire Primary School and Associate Director of Personal Development for the Trust, led the school section of the parade at York Pride with Trust pupils playing samba percussion. The band also wowed the crowd when it took to the stage at the Trust’s ArtsFest at York Barbican in July.
Natalie Paver, representing the Paver family, visited Knavesmire Primary, one of Excel Learning Trust’s six schools, to present a cheque to members of the band on behalf of the foundation.
Clare Hardy said “We are truly grateful for the kind support of the Pavers Foundation. This funding will allow us to invest in more instruments, giving even more pupils the chance to join the Samba Band. Samba is a really inclusive style of music as pupils can join in without needing individual instrumental lessons. This wonderful donation means more of our pupils, regardless of their musical background, can participate and have a great time making music together!”
Children from across Excel Learning Trust which comprises York High School, Millthorpe School, Inspire Academy, Carr Junior School, and Knavesmire, Scarcroft and Woodthorpe Primary Schools, will have the opportunity to join the Samba Band in the new year once the new instruments have been purchased.
Natalie Paver from the Pavers Foundation said “It’s an absolute pleasure to support the growth of Excel Learning Trust’s Samba Band. Music should be accessible and inclusive for all and the Samba Band provides a perfect opportunity to get involved, play an instrument and have lots of fun. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Clare and some of the members of the band and of course, hearing them play – the rhythm is infectious!”
The Pavers Foundation was launched in 2018, with an initial donation of £2.5 million from Pavers Shoes and the private estate of the late Catherine Paver, to enable charitable giving by the business and its 1500 employees. The Foundation is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the communities around the Pavers team. Each employee can submit grant applications for causes close to their heart, relating to health, education or community. The Foundation also supports one national or significant charity per year, which is voted for by employees.
Further information about the Pavers Foundation can be found here: https://paversfoundation.co.uk/pages/about-us
18 October 2024
Photo: Clare Hardy, music teacher at Knavesmire Primary School and Associate Director of Wider Opportunities for the Trust pictured with Natalie Pavers and members of the samba band from Knavesmire Primary School.
;
