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International Day for Street Children

St Clement Danes students were honoured to take part in a song written by Vartan Melkonian to mark the International Day for Street Children, 12th April 2023. The day is designed to carry the message to every government around the world that 'children are too often denied the rights owed to them. Things that most of us take for granted such as healthcare, access to justice when harmed and freedom from harassment are denied to these children. This can and must change.' The song was supported by both the UN and the Consortium for Street Children. 
 
Vartan Melkonian refers to himself as the 'orphan boy who became a great conductor.' Melkonian has led a remarkable life: he was brought up in the 'Bird's Nest Orphanage' in Lebanon, then lived in the slums of Beirut, suffering with a severe speech impediment. Despite the odds against him, he became a conductor of classical music and has conducted for the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the London Symphony Orchestra and performed across the globe. Hallam Tennyson has said Melkonian 'has no formal education or any musical training. His life is nothing short of a miracle.' His biography can be found here for those who would like to know more: 
 
Our Head of Music, Anna Stevens, taught the song to the students involved and explored with the students the power of music to both connect us and the effect it can have on people's lives. The students then joined with children around the world in their performance, which has been shared worldwide. 
 
Vartan Melkonian wrote to the school to express his thanks for their contribution: "I write to express my deep and heartfelt gratitude, and that of the UN’s and the Consortium for Street Children’s, for letting the SCD’s children take part in the song, Swami Narayan, which was released worldwide on the International Day for Street Children, 12 April 2023." 
 
The school feels very privileged to have taken part in the song and we encourage you to share both the song and its message with friends and family.  
 
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19th December

Charities Week 2025

The halls of St Clement Danes School have been buzzing with holiday cheer this week as the annual Charities Week is officially in full swing. As the Autumn Term draws to a close, pupils and staff have united to raise vital funds for three incredible causes: Endometriosis UK, Spread a Smile, and Herts Young Homeless. The school is alive with the spirit of giving, driven by a jam packed ‘Advent’ schedule designed to get everyone involved in the fundraising efforts. This year’s itinerary has been filled with exciting activities, ranging from pupil led lessons and a "Mystery Bucket" challenge to the competitive excitement of the "Elf Auction" and various competitions. Pupils have also enjoyed the classic "Sponge the Teacher" event and a visit to Santa’s Grotto, ensuring the festive atmosphere is matched only by the community’s generosity. Beyond the classroom activities, pupils have been sharing the festive spirit with the wider community. On 18th December, the SCD Senior Choir paid a special visit to Chorleywood Manor Care Home. The residents were treated to a beautiful selection of Christmas carols, featuring performances by members of the Chamber Choir, Evensong Choir, and the Barbershop Choir. Year 12 pupils Immy and Chrissie noted that "it was a very joyful occasion and it was lovely to see the residents joining in and looking so happy." The success of such a busy week relies heavily on pupil leadership, and the school extends a massive vote of thanks to Year 13 for their incredible hard work and dedication. Their enthusiasm have been the driving force behind this week's fundraising efforts. The week is set to conclude on Friday with the Grand Finale: the highly anticipated Sixth Form Revue, promising a spectacular end to a week of community, charity and celebration.