SIX GCSE drama pupils at King Edward’s Witley performed an adaptation of Matt Woodhead’s Who Cares – which focuses on raising awareness about young carers.

Led by lower sixth pupil Azariah, the play’s dialogue was made up entirely of words from young carers from across the UK, who Matt had interviewed to raise awareness of the difficulties these young people face in their daily lives. There are more than 17,000 young carers in Surrey, and more than 700,000 across the UK.

The pupils began work on the play in the autumn term and had worked closely with Azariah to develop a better understanding of its context.

Azariah said: “As a young carer for my mum, I find the subject so important and it is very special to me.

“I also found out that a lot of my peers are young carers too.

“While we followed Matt’s original script carefully, we also added some more verbatim and incorporated choreography and movement.”

Headteacher Joanna Wright added: “King Edward’s has a long tradition of philanthropy and addressing disadvantage and vulnerability.

“We offer welfare bursaries through the Bridewell Foundation, livery companies and other charities, for young people who are less advantaged and who have a particular need for a boarding education.

“It was so moving for me to watch such a compelling performance by our talented pupils, addressing this important subject of young carers so close to all our hearts.”