Former Spandau Ballet singer opens new learning space at a Sheffield school

A brand new state of the art learning space received a special opening from former lead singer of Spandau Ballet and British singer-songwriter Tony Hadley.

O asis Academy Watermead, situated in the heart of Sheffield were delighted to welcome Tony to the academy to see pupils, staff and the brand new sensory room which is now officially open.

The brand new room will support children and provide sensory stimulation for the pupils to help them stay calm, focused and enjoy their day. Just some of the equipment includes engaging resources, bubble tubes, scented sprays and mood lighting.

Tony Hadley is an English singer-songwriter, occasional stage actor and radio presenter. He rose to fame in the 1980s as the lead singer of the New Romantic band Spandau Ballet and launched a solo career following the group's split in 1990.

Adam Dawson, Principal of Oasis Academy Watermead, commented saying; “We were

elighted to welcome Tony to our Academy and officially open our new sensory room.”

“We are very excited about the room and to see pupils thrive in a space that has been purposefully built to support them.”

Tony, attended the Young Voices performance which a number of Oasis Academy Watermead pupils were part of on Thursday 9th January 2020 at the FlyDSA Arena.

Young Voices is one of the biggest mass participation choir events for young people. Over the last twenty three years, two and a half million children have sung their hearts out at arenas across the country.

Tony Hadley, Former Lead Spandau Ballet Singer, added; “I was honoured to be invited to Oasis Academy Watermead. The room is amazing and it will help the children with their emotional regulation.”

Speaking about the opening of the sensory room and Young Voices, pupils said; “I really enjoyed it, chance to sing with my friends and meet new people.”, “Meeting Tony Hadley was really fun. He gave us a shout out whilst he was rehearsing.” And “The sensory room really helps me to calm down when I am not happy. I really like the lights and the bubble tube.”