Meet Laura: Behind the Scenes of Bancroft’s Music

Published by Bancroft's School on Thursday 13th of March 2025

We’re counting down to one of the biggest concerts of the year, the annual Drapers’ Hall Concert, so we took
the opportunity to go behind the scenes with our Music Assistant in the Senior School.

Laura has been part of Bancroft’s for three years, starting as a Graduate Music Assistant in the Prep School before moving into her current role as Musical Technical Administrative Assistant in the Senior School in September 2024.

With her expertise in both music and education, she plays a vital role in keeping the department running smoothly—all while continuing her own career as a professional musician.

Can you tell us more about your role and what your typical day looks like?

I absolutely love my new role! No day is ever the same, which keeps things exciting. As the ABRSM Co-ordinator, I spend a lot of time booking exams, entering students, and preparing for exam day—we have 71 students taking an instrumental exam on 22nd March! I also provide behind-the-scenes support for the academic music team, work closely with the Visiting Music Teachers and I organise orchestral music.

What brought you to Bancroft’s, or inspired you to work in education?

I started working at Bancroft’s straight out of Music College. The idea of working in such a warm and welcoming community really appealed to me.

Tell us about your journey in music so far. What instruments do you play?

I play the saxophone, flute, clarinet, and piano. I started learning the saxophone and piano when I was eight, the flute at 16, and the clarinet at 18. I studied at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where I earned my BMus (Hons). Since then, alongside my work at Bancroft’s, I’ve been freelancing as a musician—teaching, running my own function band, and performing in Musical Theatre productions. I’ve been fortunate enough to work on amazing projects, including depping on the UK Tour of Bugsy Malone. My dream is to play in a West End pit band one day—hopefully, that will come true!

What’s it like working with the pupils here?

The pupils at Bancroft’s are incredibly talented and motivated. It’s amazing to see their enthusiasm for music! One of the highlights of the year is our annual concert at Draper’s Hall—a stunning venue where our students showcase their hard work. Hearing their performances always blows me away.

Who do you work closely with? Tell us a bit about your department.

The music department comprises of myself, Julia Whitbread, Caroline Foinette and Rebecca Raw. We work so well together as a team, always supporting and encouraging each other – they are my friends, not just my colleagues. We also have a group of 30 Visiting Music Teachers that I also work closely with. It’s quite the admin task keeping on top of all those timetables!

Do you run any clubs?

Yes, I run the Junior Flute Ensemble, which currently has very talented Thirds and Removes flautists. We recently performed at the Instrumental Ensembles Evening.

What’s next for Music at Bancroft’s?

There’s so much to look forward to! Aside from Draper’s Hall, we’ve got the Glam Rock concert on 6th May, featuring nearly all of our ensembles—it’s going to be an amazing evening. Then there’s the Bancroft’s Summer Festival on 28th June, with music, food, stalls, and hopefully, sunshine!

What are your thoughts on the Bancroft’s community?

I never expected to join such a warm and open community. When I first started, I told myself it would be for just one year—and here I am, well into my third! The students are ambitious, the teachers are inspiring, and it’s a fantastic place to be. I am happy to be a part of it.

It’s been a pleasure getting to know you, Laura—thank you for taking the time to chat with us!