16th year of Charltonbury
Charlton School in Wellington hosted its annual ‘Charltonbury’ community festival, bringing the academic year to a spectacular and celebratory end.
Hundreds of people turned out in the sunshine for the 16th year of the event, which has grown significantly over the years. This year it involved more than 200 student performers and volunteers.
The event was particularly special for the school’s long-serving principal Andrew McNaughton, who is leaving the school after nine years to take up a new post in Walsall this summer.
“It gives me great pride to see how Charlton has become the heart of its community,” he said.
“Charltonbury is always the highlight of the school year – an opportunity for students to shine and celebrate their achievements with friends, families and staff.
“It’s more than a school event – it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and Charlton pride.”
This year’s festival included performances from Charlton students and various partner schools across the region, including choirs, dance troupes, solo artists and bands.
Among the other schools taking part were Crudgington, Apley Wood, Hadley Learning Community, and Dothill primary schools – plus community ensembles and secondary school groups from Telford and Newport.
performers and volunteers got involved.
Festival goers enjoyed a global street food experience, with a range of stalls offering everything from Caribbean and Indian cuisine to pizza, hot dogs, and sweet treats. A portion of all food sales will be donated back to the school.
There was also an arts and crafts market featuring handmade goods, glitter face painting, and family-friendly activities.
Younger visitors took advantage of a dedicated inflatables zone, including a 65-foot obstacle course, bouncy castles, and a helter-skelter.
