A Nottingham headteacher who takes to the stage in assemblies to inspire pupils has been affectionately nicknamed the ‘Singing Headteacher’ by children, parents and staff. His unique and flamboyant performa
nces aim to foster a sense of community and belonging for those at the school.
Ben Jackson, Head of School at Bluecoat Primary Academy – part of Archway Learning Trust, has caught the attention of the Broxtowe community with his joyful assemblies. Known as Believe Times, Ben sings original songs to uplift attendees, with the wider aim of inspiring a culture of positivity at the academy.
His eccentric costumes, creative lyrics and entertaining performance style have come together to create colourful spectacles of, “Our Way” for the Year 6 Leavers’ Assembly, a re-make of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air theme-tune with lyrics to reflect the school’s rules, plus a rendition of, “Is this the way to Bluecoat Primary?”
Ben said: “Speaking with parents attending our open days, many shared that they had heard about our school through word of mouth, particularly referencing videos of me singing during our weekly Believe Times, with some parents having even nicknamed me the Singing Headteacher.
“Music has become a powerful tool for connection, celebration, and emotional well-being within our school. It’s not about performance; it’s about presence, positivity, and creating moments of joy that children carry with them. This musical approach is helping to build a school culture rooted in mental health, happiness, and belonging.
“Every child deserves the chance to invest in their creativity. Our character curriculum holds equal weight to our knowledge curriculum, with children boosting their social awareness, resilience, and imagination.”
It comes as Archway continues to invest heavily in enrichment and its arts curriculum. Bluecoat Primary Academy alone has already been recognised for its commitment to creating an enriching educational experience that expands further than the classroom. It has achieved the Well Health and Wellbeing Award, the Young Carers Accreditation, and has also participated in a pilot lesson to get the subject of death, dying and bereavement officially added to the national curriculum. The academy is also on a journey to being granted the Artsmark Gold Award.
James Higham, CEO at Archway Learning Trust, added: “Bluecoat Primary Academy is a wonderful example of how creativity and imagination can be used to craft an environment for pupils and staff in which they feel joy and purpose. As a Trust, we know the benefits the arts, including music, bring to our schools at both primary and secondary level and we’re committed to giving our leaders the resources and creative freedom to introduce wonderful initiatives like these.”
Archway Learning Trust is a Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) with 11 academies across Nottingham, Derby and Derbyshire. It is Nottingham’s biggest MAT, educating one third of Nottingham’s children.