STEWARDS Academy students were incredibly lucky to participate in the National Theatre’s schools matinee scheme and have the opportunity to see ‘Dear England’ in April 2025.

Thirty-five students and staff, travelled to London to watch the show on a sunny April day. Prior to the performance, they were able to enjoy the sights along the Thames as they sat outside to eat lunch.

‘Dear England’ focuses on Gareth Southgate and his time as England football manager. It also explores the impact of football at the time on the country and the significance of the team as part of a long line of England squads.

Stewards Academy students joined hundreds of other students in the National’s Olivier Theatre and represented the academy superbly. They enjoyed seats in the stalls which provided an excellent view of the stage. Some students were also lucky enough to receive high fives by some of the actors as they ran past!

One student said: “I wasn’t sure about going to see the play originally, but I thought it was brilliant! The way the stage was created, the emotions of the actors was just great. I loved it.”

Mrs Lysons, trip leader, said: “’This was an amazing production and a great opportunity for a diverse range of students to get to watch a great show. They were all fantastic ambassadors for the school and a privilege to take.”

Mrs da Vighi, Head of Performing Arts, said: “I was unable to attend the original trip but after hearing the fantastic feedback I knew that I had to go and see it too. This play really made me think about the impact that Gareth Southgate had on changing attitudes and feelings both within his own squad, and within the country as a whole. I found this play inspiring and one of the most powerful bits of theatre I have seen for a long time. I would recommend it!”