Pupils at a Mangotsfield school have something to sing about thanks to support from a firm building new homes just around the corner.

Cotswold Homes, which is constructing the properties on its Richmond Grove development on the junction of Richmond Road and St James Street, has paid for a brand new state-of-the-art digital resource which enhances the teaching and enjoyment of music at Barley Close Primary School.

‘It contains loads of songs for all occasions,’ explains head teacher Jo Williams. ‘They include Easter, summer, Christmas and so on. They come with backing tracks and words to help pupils learn the songs.’

During an impromptu inaugural concert to demonstrate use of the new system to parents and grandparents, pupils were joined by Cotswold Homes’ sales and marketing director Terri Hayes-Pugh on guitar.

‘Soon the children will be using their new digital resource to help them entertain residents of the Gracefields Nursing Home in North Street, Downend which we visit periodically,’ explains Jo.

She added: ‘Research shows that the young can help older people and it is lovely for the residents of Gracefields to reminisce about their own school days and join in with traditional songs as well as trying a few new ones.

‘The importance of a broad and balanced curriculum is key but, sadly, music in schools is a subject which has dropped off the curriculum in recent years. Although many children don’t have the chance to play an instrument because of the costs involved, singing is free. Research shows that music improves wellbeing, helps to develop language and has long-term health benefits.’

Meanwhile building work continues apace at Richmond Grove where the new homes combine the external character of the South Gloucestershire village’s old-established villas with the twenty-first century layout and facilities demanded by today’s families.

They have proved to be a hit with local house-hunters and many are attracted by an unusual feature on the ground floor, reports Terri.

She explained: ‘We recognise the need for versatile accommodation, so we’ve planned the full-width room at the front of the house to be used as a spacious lounge or a family room. In turn, the lounge on the first floor (some with Juliet balcony and French doors) could easily become an additional bedroom.

‘It’s a perfect solution for a growing family and one that can adapt to suit changing lifestyles. Visitors to the showhome love the concept and are voting with their cheque books!’

The fully-furnished showhome and marketing suite at Richmond Grove are open seven days a week.

Prices start at £349,000. Call 07989 581236 or 01242 248 975. Information is available on Cotswold Homes’ GameChanger package and the Government’s Help-to-Buy scheme (terms and conditions apply – please note, this scheme has now ended).

Richmond Grove is now a completed development. For homes available to buy, please visit our Current Developments page.