A group of 60 secondary school students headed to the West End to learn how the backstage team works to put on one of one of the world’s biggest musicals.

The Year 7 and 8 pupils Epping St John’s Church of England School, in Epping, were treated to watching Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre in London.

During the interval, students who had managed the technical side of the school’s High School Musical production earlier this year met with the technical team behind the long-running show.

Sarah Viccars, assistant headteacher and director of learning, said: “This was a really nice opportunity for students to speak to professionals as some of them are considering careers in the industry.

“It got them thinking about the technical side of the theatre which is hugely important.

“We take students on this trip every year. Wicked is a story they can follow and relate to and they understand the level of humour involved.

“For some, it’s their first experience of visiting the West End and seeing a live production.

“I feel very strongly that every child should have the right to see live theatre before they leave our school. What better way to get them involved in performing arts than to visit the West End.”