TOWN COUNCIL:

In addition to the School Council’s work, our classes are also involved in various civic events throughout the year.  Remembrance Day is honoured by representatives from the school attending a ceremony in the Town Square, where poems are recited and wreathes are laid to honour those who have given their lives in conflicts.  Pupils have attended an International Festival, where dishes and clothing from India were sampled.  Chinese New Year is celebrated by some pupils who attend the fantastic Dragon Dance and sample some Chinese food.  Pupils have also been involved in running a market stall for a day, when they sold cakes to visitors to the town to raise funds to help survivors of a natural disaster.

CHOIR:

We are very proud of our school Choir.  They are well known in the town and regularly perform at various civic events.  The Choir’s singing at the town’s Christmas Lights Switch on is a highlight of the festive season for many local residents.  The Choir has performed bi-lingual songs at a reception in the Town Hall to welcome the Mayor of Civray, France, and his party.  Singing for the residents of local care and residential homes is a role that the Choir children take very seriously.  The Choir's singing really brings a smile to the residents' faces.  The Choir get an extra special treat each year when they take part in the Young Voices Concert.  Travelling across the country to attend rehearsals at the Birmingham Arena is a real highlight.  In the evening, the Choir joins forces with around 3,000 other youngsters and perform to a large crowd with real musicians and celebrities.

DOWNHAM MARKET CLUSTER: 

The schools in the Downham Market area form our Cluster.  Pupils at Hillcrest regularly attend Cluster events such as a Cluster Music Group, Sports events, etc.  It provides an excellent opportunity for pupils to mix with young people from other primary schools before they move on to High School.

RAF MARHAM: 

As Hillcrest is situated close to the air force base of RAF Marham, the school has begun fostering links with IX Squadron.  Representatives from IX Squadron come into school to share time with the pupils; hear them read; take part in activities.  The pupils also follow the progress of IX Squadron as they make their way around the world on exercise.

HERITAGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE: 

Staff at Hillcrest have been involved in the setting up of the new Downham and District Heritage & Learning Centre by providing the organisers with feedback and advice on educational use of heritage sites.  Our previous Headteacher, Mrs Howling, was a member of the Advisory Committee that is steering this project forward.