Meadowgate Academy is planning to hold its first ever summer music festival for their special needs pupils and their families.

Wisbech Standard: Meadowfest logoMeadowfest logo (Image: Archant)

Meadowfest will take place on Friday 23 and Saturday 24 June - the same weekend as one of the world’s biggest, Glastonbury - at the Academy.

Emma Bird, one of the organisers behind Meadowfest, said: “Many public events simply can’t cater for the needs of people with special needs and so the opportunities for fun, outside of the home, are very limited for our families.

“That’s why we are organising a summer festival, for our pupils, their families and the local community where they can come and experience a music festival and lots of entertainment in an environment where they can truly be themselves and not judged by their behaviour, looks or abilities.

“We want to give our families an experience to remember, to feel part of the community and have a sense of normality which is often lost when caring for young people with additional needs.

“Meadowfest is able to happen purely thanks to the generosity, support and time pledged by so many businesses and people from the local community and we can’t thank them enough.

“The event was launched by Si on his breakfast show at KLFM in April and the response from businesses large and small, local bands, dance acts, community groups, Wisbech Grammar School, College of West Anglia and the fire service was incredible.

“This is the first time we have ever tried anything as ambitious on this scale but we are determined to make it an event to remember for our amazing pupils and their dedicated families. Please come along and support Meadowfest!”

Friday tickets are free, whilst tickets for Saturday – which is open to the public as well as pupils, cost £1 each. To book visit or call the school box office: 01945 461836.

Visit www.meadowgate.eschools.co.uk for more information

What to expect from Meadowfest

Friday 23 June, 9am – 3pm

A fun filled day just for pupils of Meadowgate Academy and friends from Churchill Park Special School in King’s Lynn. Primary pupils will have their own seaside-themed area with a real beach, where they can enjoy lots of seaside inspired games and a picnic.

Secondary pupils will have plenty to entertain them with live music bands including Dark Surrender and Wisbech Grammar School, fairground rides, bouncy castles, stalls, games and a BBQ lunch.

The festival will also host the Grand Final of Meadowfest’s Got Talent. Acts from Key Stage 3, 4 and 5, Churchill Park and wildcard entries from primary and staff will be judged by special guests, all competing to win a trophy.

Saturday 24 June, 12pm – 4pm

The festival opens its doors to pupils, family, friends and the public to come and enjoy the entertainment, stalls and games. Come and enjoy the Meadowgate Riviera beach with its seaside inspired games and stalls. A variety of bands will provide the live music including Big Phil and the Heartbreakers, an Adele tribute by Steffany plus dance groups and gym displays.

There will be fairground rides, bouncy castles, face painting, Cambs Fire & Rescue, London bus tours around Wisbech plus traditional stalls and games like our usual summer fayre. There will be hot food available from a local hog roast company, hot drinks served from Meadowgate’s coffee shop.