Matt Lucas – our new patron of Raise the Roof

We are delighted to welcome Matt Lucas, comedian and star of Great British Bake Off as patron of Raise the Roof, a campaign to raise funds to build a performing arts studio at the Archer Academy lower school.

The TV star, who has spoken of how performing arts transformed his school days, will play a pivotal part in our campaign to seek the additional funds we need by spreading the word, drumming up support and encouraging other individuals and organisations to get involved. Additionally, Matt will host a special ‘Evening With’ and will come into school to speak with students and run a workshop.

As Matt explained:

“The Archer Academy has already been incredibly successful across the arts field, winning trophies galore. I now want to give future generations of young performers a dedicated studio, so the school can not only build on its achievements, but also allow more students to get thoroughly involved.”

Matt joins the campaign at a critical time, we are halfway towards hitting our target of £300,000. If all goes smoothly, the aim is to have the building work done over the summer, and have the studio ready for the new academic year in September.

So the race is on to raise the remaining funds, which is why Matt’s support is so vital. The studio has the potential to make a massive difference, as headteacher Lucy Harrison explains:

“We’re a mixed ability school with an inclusive approach to the Creative and Performing Arts, and creativity is in our DNA; it is one of the school’s core values, brought to life by an inspirational team of performing arts teachers. However, although our ambitions have no limits, our site unfortunately does. 

“That’s why we’re so grateful to Matt for agreeing to join us as Raise the Roof patron; we still have a financial mountain to climb and we feel incredibly lucky that he has agreed to share his time, and his profile, in support of our campaign. And we can’t wait to welcome him into school to inspire and encourage our students to follow in his footsteps.”

The school would also welcome information about, or links to, any relevant trusts and foundations that might be interested in supporting the campaign. Individuals or organisations who may be able to help should contact the Headteacher’s PA, Jessica Bryant at jbryant@old.thearcheracademy.org.uk