A NEW music club at a school in Barrow has proven hugely popular amongst students.

Joshua Jones joined St Bernard’s Catholic High School in September as the schools music teacher.

Upon arrival he set up the schools first ukulele club for years seven and eight.

Since the club was founded in September, it now has 20 too 25 regular attendees.

Mr Jones spoke to The Mail about the club’s success.

He said: “We chose to start a ukelele club for a number of reasons, firstly, it is an idea instrument for some of the younger students to start getting involved in music and learning how to play.

“Also, a ukelele has nylon strings, this is much more comfortable for the students learning to play compared to the metal strings on a normal guitar.

“Another reason was the fact the chords shapes are slightly easier, meaning the students will be able to pick them up more easily.

“The ukulele is also a more accessible instrument for more children, they’re not as expensive as some other instruments so more parents can afford to buy their children their own.

“Throughout my time as a teacher I’ve found the ukulele is a good instrument for children to start learning as they tend to pick it up well and the kids see a return from the practice straight away.”

Mr Jones said he was happy to see how popular the club had become, claiming it had “surpassed expectations.”

He said: “When we were preparing to start the club, we bought around 15 ukuleles, but quickly found we needed to buy more.

“I think learning to play Ukulele has been great for the children in the club.

“They performed as part of Christmas show last year ans we’re hoping to get something sorted for the summer show later this year.

“If the take up continues the way it has already, I’d like to look in to finding competitions for the group to enter.

To any students thinking about joining the club or starting to learn any instrument, Mr Jones said: “I think it’’s about taking that first step to get involved.

“Most of the children who come to the club end up staying.

“A club like this is a good opportunity to be part of something bigger then yourself, and learning an instrument is a great skill for anyone to have.”