Wynstream Primary Pupils Find Their Rhythm with New Bucket Drumming Club

Wynstream Primary School in Exeter, part of Education South West, is celebrating the successful launch of its new ‘Bucket Drumming Club’, a lively programme that is already proving hugely popular with pupils.

Bucket drumming is a popular and accessible form of "junk percussion" where players use everyday objects, typically plastic utility buckets, as a drum set. 

Led by teaching assistant and drummer Murdo McKean, the club introduces children to rhythm and percussion using an unexpected instrument, the humble bucket. Sessions have been filled with energy and creativity as pupils explore drumming techniques and develop their musical confidence.

In just the first few sessions, children have already learned key rhythmic patterns and successfully mastered the famous “kick-kick-snare” rhythm from the iconic song We Will Rock You, showcasing both their enthusiasm and rapid progress.

The initiative has been generously funded by school governor Peter Vickery, whose passion for music education helped make the project possible. His support reflects a strong commitment to providing enriching creative opportunities for pupils and encouraging a lifelong love of music.

Elise Redman, Headteacher at Wynstream Primary School, said:

 “It has been fantastic to see the excitement and confidence the Bucket Drumming Club has already inspired in our pupils. Music plays such an important role in creativity, teamwork and self-expression, and Murdo has done an incredible job engaging the children from the very first session. We are also extremely grateful to Peter Vickery for supporting this wonderful initiative.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:

 “Opportunities like the Bucket Drumming Club help bring learning to life in exciting and memorable ways. It is wonderful to see pupils developing new skills, building confidence and enjoying music together. My thanks go to everyone involved in creating such a positive and inspiring experience for the children at Wynstream Primary.”