Buckswood School aims to spark curiosity, build character, and nurture each student to become the best version of themselves—a place where children truly bloom: where talent blossoms and dreams take root.
When speaking to the dedicated and enthusiastic staff at the school, they will tell you, “Academics are first and foremost, but our school is about more than just academics. As you explore Buckswood, you will gain a deeper understanding of our educational ethos, which is built on our ‘12 Pillars’—a set of core values that guide everything from academics to personal development, shaping well-rounded, passionate individuals who truly stand out. This is the Buckswood difference: an education that prepares students not just for success, but for life.”
Among these twelve core values are talent, individuality, and internationalism—three qualities that were on full display on Friday, March 21, when the new head of drama and performing arts coordinator, Arabella Ansar, masterminded an evening of sheer talent and versatility: The Buckswood Bloom. This was the first event of its kind, giving many pupils their first experience on stage—some performing before an audience of this scale for the very first time.
The evening began with Miss Ansar’s grand entrance, marching through the hall ringing her bell, leading the Ryebellion Drummers to the stage. Their performance electrified the audience, who responded with wild cheers and applause.
Buckswood is home to students from 35 different countries, making it a truly international community where diverse cultures, traditions, and talents come together. This global spirit was reflected not only on stage but also through a live stream of the event, allowing families, friends, and alumni from around the world to tune in and celebrate the incredible performances. From Europe to Africa, Asia to the Americas, Buckswood’s reach was felt far beyond the walls of the school, uniting a worldwide audience in appreciation of the students’ talents.
Over recent months, thanks to the vision and leadership of Giles Sutton, the headmaster, and the dedication of the senior management team, the performing arts at Buckswood have been given a new lease of life. Under the expert guidance of Miss Ansar, the provision has grown rapidly, with an exciting programme of curricular and extracurricular opportunities now in place. Moving forward, this will be further enhanced by the performing arts department’s relocation to a dedicated space—beautifully set against the backdrop of the school’s vineyard, orchard, and natural woodland. A truly inspirational setting for creativity to flourish.
Miss Ansar’s vision was to showcase students’ talents alongside local performing arts groups from Rye and the surrounding district. This collaboration proved to be a resounding success, as students not only performed and supported their peers but also gained inspiration from experienced artists. Importantly, the event also strengthened connections between Buckswood and the Rye Arts Festival, opening doors for future partnerships that will provide students with exciting new opportunities to engage with the wider arts community.
I am not going to name all the children – it is a wonderfully long list – but suffice it to say, every one of them shone on stage and received warm applause and encouragement from the audience. The diverse line-up featured solo vocalists, pianists, and verse speakers; a group poetry recital; a six-member choir performing twice; and a dancer who captivated the audience with elegance and confidence. Former student Stephen James John from Bowler Crab Theatre Company delivered a fascinating and humorous insight into the many words Shakespeare gave us, while the Rye Harbour Herrings sang sea shanties, encouraging the audience to sing along, which they did with gusto.
The second half kicked off with The Violet Jive, the one-of-a-kind retro-flavoured band with a fresh, colourful twist that had people dancing in the aisles. Two members of Rye Players, a local amateur dramatics group, had the audience in stitches with their hilarious Songalogues, directed by Pat Driver.
An event on this scale required seamless technical execution, and FTB Event from Rye Harbour delivered flawlessly, supply and managing the technical aspects of the evening.
Reflecting on the event, Michael Shaw, academic principal of Buckswood, remarked:
“We are immensely proud of our student performers, who delivered inspiring performances that showcased the depth of talent here at Buckswood. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of staff and student volunteers helped bring the evening to life with professionalism and passion. Buckswood Bloom marks an exciting step forward in our mission to develop and nurture performing arts talent, both within our school and in partnership with the wider community.”
The evening was attended by distinguished guests, including the chair of Rother District Council, Cllr Richard Thomas, and the chair of Guestling Parish Council, Cllr Marion Roberts further highlighting the importance of the arts in education and community engagement. Their presence underscored the significance of the event, not just for Buckswood but for the wider creative landscape in the region.
Following the event, mayor of Rye, Andy Stuart, shared his thoughts: “What a fabulous evening! From the local talents of the (largely) adult Ryebellion Drummers, the Rye Harbour Herrings shanty troupe, Rye Players, Stephen James John and The Violet Jive, to the musicians, singers, dancers, and spoken word performances of the young Buckswood students from around the world—it was a real treat to be savoured! Bloomin’ marvellous!”
With The Buckswood Bloom, the school continues to foster a culture where talent blossoms and dreams take root, paving the way for future stars to shine—both at Buckswood and across the world
Image Credits: Kt bruce .