Exeter pupils raise nearly £40k for WaterAid

Pupils at Exeter School have raised nearly £40,000 for international charity WaterAid over the past 20 years, using the power of music to support clean water initiatives worldwide.

Since 2001, the school’s talented young musicians and singers have performed annual concerts to raise both funds and awareness for WaterAid, which works to improve access to clean water, decent toilets, and hygiene in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

Concerts have been held in various Exeter venues, including Exeter Cathedral and St Michael’s and All Angels Church in Heavitree, often featuring around 150 pupils aged 11 to 18. These performances have become a long-standing tradition, showcasing not only musical excellence but also a commitment to global issues.

Last year’s Christmas Concert was particularly special, following the cancellation of an earlier school event due to snow. As a result, the programme expanded beyond festive music, featuring ten different ensembles alongside soloists Lucia (flute), Tom (trumpet), and Dominic (cello). Younger students also played a role, with junior school violinists Grace and Taylor joining the Symphony Orchestra.

Beyond music, the school’s Young Artists Collective (YAC) has contributed to fundraising efforts, creating digital artwork reflecting concerns about the global water crisis and climate change. Their work has been displayed at concerts, with proceeds from Christmas card sales adding to the donations.

Peter Tamblyn, Exeter School's Director of Music, expressed his pride in the initiative:

“The annual WaterAid concert holds great significance for me personally. Having spent four years working in Zambia’s Copperbelt Region, I saw first-hand how a simple borehole can transform lives—providing water for drinking, hygiene, and irrigation. None of us here have to worry about running water, and through these concerts, I hope our pupils are inspired to help those who do.”

Zena Hamilton, Water Industry Partnerships Officer for WaterAid, added:

“On behalf of everyone at WaterAid, a heartfelt thank you to all those involved in this special concert and for your incredible 20 years of fundraising support! A special mention to the organisers, especially Peter Tamblyn, as well as the performers and audience for making this event possible. Your valuable support helps us continue our vital work: changing lives through clean water, decent toilets, and good hygiene.”

The school hopes to continue this fundraising tradition, reinforcing the power of collaboration and community action to support those in need.

For more information about WaterAid's work in Zambia, visit www.wateraid.org.