Purfleet Primary Parades With The Mayor of London

Following the success of the school’s colourful carnival parade at the end of the summer term, the school will now join 2000 musicians, dancers, amazing lanterns and illuminated costumes as international carnival groups from across the world come and perform their work in a dazzling display of carnival creativity. The night-time parade weaves its way along the River Thames starting at Victoria Embankment, crossing over Blackfriars Bridge, and finally drawing to a finish behind Festival Hall.

The chance to participate in such an exciting event came through the Creative Partnerships project taking place at the school, called It Takes A Community To Build A World of Dreams. Dancer and choreographer Carmen Vilches has been working at the school teaching dance and movement. Together with two dancers from her company, LamatDance she will be performing and leading the school. They will parade with Mandinga Arts carnival group who have also designed their costumes. The theme of Mandinga Arts is ‘Tribes and Trading Routes’ and Pufleet’s group will be the ‘Strawberries Tribe’.

Deputy Head Janine Blinko says the school is thrilled to be taking part:

'We are very excited about this opportunity to be involved in such a fantastic event. Fifteen children and three members of staff will actually be part of the carnival, and we are hoping that many more will make their way there to support us. Our children are part of a riverside community, and are able to see London from where they live and go to school; taking part in this event will widen their horizons, and give them a greater sense of belonging to the wider community of the Thames.'

The Carnival Parade begins at 7pm. Purfleet Primary will be leading the parade. Anyone wanting to see the school should go between Waterloo Bridge towards Blackfriars Bridge. They will be dressed as strawberries!