Schoolchildren campaign in support of Melton Theatre and college

The pupils, at Asfordby Captain’s Close Primary School, sent letters and videos to the leaders of Loughborough Coilege Group, which has put the theatre and college up for sale because it says it can no longer afford to run them alongside its further education services.

They gave moving and passionate views on why they love going to the theatre and the benefits local young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) would have from being able to attend a suitable college near their homes.

The school is part of Discovery Trust, which submitted a proposal to Loughborough Coilege Group to take over the campus to create a post-16 college for 16 to 25-year-olds and run the theatre for community use as well as for SEND educational activities.

But the college group turned down the proposal because it said there was no sustainable business plan and no guarantee of SEND funding had been secured via local authorities.

The group has subsequently announced its intention to sell the college and theatre site and is currently inviting submissions from interested parties.

With the future of both theatre and college in doubt, children at Asfordby Captain’s Close Primary School were keen to add their voices to the local campaign calling for the site to be saved.

Pupils April, Riley, Scarlett, Brooke, Barney, Caitlin, Jayson, Freya, Cora and Sophie all sent letters and videos to the college group to support the theatre and college.

Caitlin said in her video: “Me and the community are very upset at this decision.

"We have so many memories of going to the theatre and a lot more memories to make.”

Brooke said she had cerebral palsy and she might need a SEND college in Melton to help her when she’s older.

She added: “Melton Theatre and college are not just buildings, they are places where people thrive. They bring joy to many people and help them learn new skills.”

Barney wrote: “I do not want the theatre to close because it creates amazement for children like myself. If it closes the locals will not be able to create memories from the shows there.”

And Scarlett said in her letter: “Melton Theatre productions bring people together and give young performers the chance to shine. I strongly urge you to keep our theatre open.”

On this special project, the school’s headteacher Natalie Willcock told the Melton Times: “We are incredibly proud of our children for using their writing skills to make a real difference in our community.

"Giving children a genuine purpose for writing is an essential life skill, and this project has shown just how powerful their voices can be.

"Their passion and determination to save our local theatre and to advocate for every child’s right to a high-quality education in their community is inspiring.

"Every piece of writing reflects their commitment to fighting for what matters most, and we couldn’t be prouder of their efforts.”