A school near Tooting Bec Common sang in front of dignitaries and hundreds of spectators at Southwark Cathedral this week.

The girls at Streatham and Clapham High School, in Abbotswood Road, performed nine carols which varied from traditional classics to modern arrangements.

Director of music Polly May, a nationally acclaimed opera singer and musician, led the pupils ranging from prep to sixth form.

She said: “Music plays a central role at SCHS both academically and as part of co-curricular enrichment and, of course, fun!

“Not only do we nurture talented music scholars who excel in classical works but we also embrace and promote diverse music culture from our djembe drumming ensemble to the very popular ukulele club to our sold-out jazz gigs at the Hideaway Club in Streatham.”

Among the notable figures was Mayor of Lambeth Marcia Cameron as the school performed at the event on December 12.