A SPECIAL needs school is preparing for its first variety show to raise funds for a lodge planned to be a community cafe where students can develop their real-life work experience.

Sandside Lodge School in Ulverston is looking forward to their show at the Forum in Barrow on Wednesday (March 27). The idea came following the Christmas performance at school where the staff were 'inspired' by their performances. 

The show will see a choir performance, where children have chosen the numbers they want to sing, comedy performances and several instruments playing. 

It is an opportunity for the students to showcase a show, develop their independence and be part of the community, explained the school's positive intervention manager Sharon Salt.

Twenty school students are taking part in the show while the others will cherish their colleagues from the audience. 

Ms Salt said: "It is a wonderful opportunity for the students to perform on a stage in front of an audience.  We have invited other groups from the local community to join us; Beaumont College, KS Musicals, Laura Sandham School of Dance as well as some past students who have kindly agreed to take part."

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So far, 100 tickets have been purchased which will go towards developing a lodge to offer students a community café where they can put into practice their work skills.

The school is currently raising funds for the project, which is estimated to cost £250,000, and plans to only develop it after securing all the money.

"It would be great to see lots of people supporting our students, there are still tickets available so please, come along and join us," said Ms Salt.

"It would be great to have a big audience to perform.

"We have never done a variety show like this - the kids are very excited."

The show will start at 7pm and tickets can be purchased on the Forum website for £8 here.