Kings Langley School National Rock Challenge Sponsored by Highwood

The Rock Challenge is an international performing arts competition and an excellent vehicle for teaching young people about a variety of important topics; anti-drug and crime prevention are important messages achieved through teams planning an eight minute performance around a theme of their choice. The dance, drama and design spectacular is performed at a professional venue with professional technical crew, a soundtrack, set, costume, make-up and lighting design all of which the pupils must consider.

Kings Langley School has been participating in the Rock Challenge for nine years and in the last three years they have won the local heat, beating off stiff competition.

As a result of achieving third position and a high score in 2010, Kings Langley School has been promoted to the prestigious premier league, to compete against the big names in the world of performing arts status schools - the only school in Hertfordshire to be in this league, which comprises only 24 schools across the UK (12 in the South and 12 in the North).

Gemma Dolan, teacher of performing arts at Kings Langley School, comments, "The Rock Challenge is one of the most popular events in which our school participates. Taking part in the competition brings out the best in every participant. We always try to pick a topical theme and also one from which our students can learn. Previously we have focussed on the size zero debate, young carers and the fight for liberty and freedom in 1940s Britain."

Highwood first sponsored Kings Langley School's 120 strong team in the 2011 Rock Challenge. Impressed by the pupils’ dedication to this Challenge, they decided to sponsor the team for the second year running.

Highwood partner, Dawn Herriott, says, “Highwood was pleased to have contributed to last year’s achievements, with Kings Langley winning an award for ‘Best Set Design’. The live performances give young people the opportunity to experience a natural high without the need for drugs and alcohol. Participation increases self-esteem, confidence and teamwork skills and improves student/teacher relationships.”