COTSWOLD School pupils brought the “electricity” of Billy Elliot to the stage in their annual school production.

The sell-out performance featured dances and music delivered by more than 80 pupils from Years 7 to 13 who made up the show’s cast, crew, choreographers and musicians.

Teacher Miriam Monk, the show’s director and head of performing arts at The Cotswold School, said: “In an educational climate when we can become lost in target grades and statistics, a school production gives our wonderful students the chance to explore who they are and express themselves as individuals.

“They gain an understanding of what commitment means, they collaborate across all age groups and abilities and they learn that having fun and working hard aren’t mutually exclusive.

“During Billy Elliot I have watched sixth formers give up lunchtimes to run lines with Year 8s; boys work together for hours to perfect their choreography; and students spend their breaks in rehearsals and to create set and props.

“It is an absolute pleasure to direct a school production.”

The title role of Billy Elliot was split between two Year 8 students: Henry Norden, 13, and Toby Hayward, 12.

Year 13 pupil Violet Crudge, 17, made Billy’s no-nonsense but kind-hearted dance teacher Mrs Wilkinson her own while Dolly Forrester, 13, played flamboyant dance class accompanist Mrs Braithwaite.