Larbert pupils involved in Song for Ukraine charity project working with The Voice finalist Bethzienna

The school was the only Scottish school to take part in the ‘Song for Ukraine’ songwriting project with the charity Never Such Innocence and The Voice finalist Bethzienna Williams.

Pupils helped co-write a verse of the song, with its three other verses being written by schools in England, Ireland and Wales.

Teacher Mhairi McAinsh explained: “We have been working in partnership with London based charity Never Such Innocence since 2015.

“Our pupils have enjoyed much success with the charity’s global competitions that give pupils a voice on war and conflict by enabling them to create artworks, poetry, song and speech writing.

"Earlier this year 23 of our pupils from our music department and School of Rock and Pop classes were involved in an online song writing workshop with Bethzienna, music teacher Blaithin Kerr and myself.

"The pupils fully engaged in writing possible lines and verses for the Scottish section of the song. They thoroughly enjoyed the workshop where they heard from Bethzienna about her career path and industry insight alongside her work for the charity.

“Bethzienna, once finished writing the full song, sent Larbert High School the demo recording. Choir master Anna McMillan rehearsed the verse with her choir pupils, adding instrumental additions and harmonies. Music technologies teacher Andy McClean expertly recorded the track and vocals to send to London where Bethzienna is bringing the full song together.”

Never Such Innocence provides a way for children and young people, between the ages of nine and 18, to reflect on the realities of war and conflict.

These reflections are through the arts and give young peoplea voice all over the world.

Speaking about Larbert High’s involvement in the work of the charity, Katie Salari, chief operating officer of Never Such Innocence, said: “They have been a wonderful school that’s been working with us for several years now.

"They have had successful winners in our international competitions and their quality of work is out of this world.

"There’s a really talented group of students at the school and the staff really inspire them.”