TNG, a leading national welfare to work training provider, today (Friday 13th November) presented Saints Peter and Paul’s Catholic College, in Halton, with £2,600 to help the College’s samba band perform at Disneyland Paris next year.

The presentation was made to Head Teacher Mr Gus Van Cauwelaert, by Mark Rowlands, Business Development Manager at TNG, part of Avanta.

Saints Peter and Paul's College was looking for a way to celebrate next year’s National Year of Music, and taking part in Disneyland Paris’ Magic Music Day experience seemed perfect. Magic Music Days allow schools and community groups the chance to become a Disney performer for the day. Saints Peter and Paul’s passed the audition, but now need to raise funds to take all 47 pupils, ranging from Year 7-Year 13.

TNG's contribution will enable pupils to enjoy this experience, many of whom may not have been able to participate if it were not for sponsorship from TNG and other private sector organisations.

Head Teacher Mr Gus Van Cauwelaert says, "We are thrilled as a college to have received this very much needed sponsorship from TNG. It is an excellent example of the very effective partnerships which can be built between schools and the private sector. The pupils will be able to benefit in so many ways from this experience, including building confidence, self esteem, establishing friendships and opening the door to a wider professional performance opportunity, thanks to the generosity of TNG."

Miss Michelle Rowlands, Key Stage Four Coordinator for Music at Saints Peter and Paul's College says, "I am overjoyed that we are able to offer this once in a lifetime experience to our pupils. It will enable pupils from all areas of Halton to take part in something they may not have had the opportunity to outside of college. The samba band will only grow in confidence, professionalism, and ability thanks to this outstanding opportunity."

Alex Pollock, Avanta Director of Business Development, said, "TNG is proud to sponsor the pupils at Saints Peter and Paul’s College. The dedication, commitment and talent they have shown is obvious to anyone who has heard them perform. I am sure they will delight the crowds at Disneyland Paris and make Halton proud."