The song, which was recorded and produced in Staffordshire University's state of the art Cadman Studios, is in memory of their former teacher Craig Beverley who received end of life care from the Stoke-on-Trent Hospice.
University staff and students from Music and Sound have helped the choir arrange, record, produce and launch the charity single. Associate professor Marc Estibeiro and Head of Department Luke Scott have also supported the choir at their performances, including University Open Days and the academy’s annual concert, and have been able to offer advice, guidance and mentoring in relation to producing the single.
Paul Ottey, who leads on the University’s Film and Media courses, has worked with students to produce video content for the Academy and they have produced the music video to accompany the charity single.
Associate Dean Matt Brindley-Sadler said: “We were looking at producing something in-house and knew the school was doing a lot of work to raise money for the Dougie Mac, which happens to be the University’s corporate charity, so this was a happy coincidence.
“It’s been a really exciting project to be able to raise the profile of the school choir and offer our expertise and resources to create, record, produce and release the single and video to raise money for a charity which has touched so many people’s lives.
“This is big part of our outreach and our role as a Civic University and has also provided our students with real world opportunities. I personally have been overwhelmed by the level of commitment of all involved and especially the choir which has raised over £22,000 before the single is launched.”
Student Alfie Walford had the original idea to raise money in memory of Mr Beverley who was Senior Assistant Principal at Cheadle Academy.
Alfie, 18, explained: "As a group we really cannot believe how big it has become. What started out as some carol singing in memory of our teacher, Mr Beverley, has turned into something huge!
“We know that Mr Beverley would have loved the chance to get involved with a project like this, which makes it all the more special. Let’s hope we can raise even more vital funds for the Dougie Mac!"
Douglas Macmillan Hospice Chief Executive David Webster added: “All of us at Dougie Mac have been overwhelmed by the tenacity and commitment shown by the pupils at Cheadle Academy Sixth Form College, in raising funds for our hospice.
“Their latest initiative demonstrates just how creative and imaginative they are too! We are proud to be part of a community with such generous and compassionate young people.”
Please support the choir in their fundraising efforts by purchasing the single which is available from iTunes here.