As part of their efforts to recognise and celebrate the hard work, commitment, and dedication of their students, Sutton Music Trust (SMT) became a Jack Petchey Achievement Award Centre in June 2025. 

Across the Spring term, students, parents, tutors, and staff sent in their nominations for the Jack Petchey Achievement Award, which recognises outstanding commitment, dedication, and contribution to the SMT ensembles. Winners of the award are allocated a grant of £300 each to invest back into the ensembles in an area of their choice.

Congratulations to Oaks Park High Year 8 student Luke D, who was awarded one of the Spring Term Jack Petchey Awards at Sutton Music Trust (SMT). Luke received the nomination as shown below:

“Luke is a dedicated and valued member of the SMT community. Together with being a committed player at the Young Musicians Orchestra, Luke has attended several High Ashurst residential trips. For the past two years, Luke has shown exceptional leadership skills, mentoring and supporting younger percussion players to step out of their comfort zone and do their best in ensemble playing. As a result of Luke’s direction, the younger players shone. Luke embodies many of the values of the Jack Petchey Award – he is a proactive team player.”

Luke put his £300 grant towards purchasing new percussion instruments to be used by the SMT ensembles.

You can read more about the Sutton Music Trust Jack Petchey awards on their website linked here.