Exmouth pupils 'spellbound' by warrior visit

PUPILS were humbled and left feeling spellbound after African warriors visited their school last week. The Osiligi Maasai Troupe, a group of dancers and singers from Kenya, attended Withycombe Raleigh Primary on Thursday, September 10, to perform in front

PUPILS were humbled and left feeling spellbound after African warriors visited their school last week.

The Osiligi Maasai Troupe, a group of dancers and singers from Kenya, attended Withycombe Raleigh Primary on Thursday, September 10, to perform in front of children.

Also known as Masai Warriors, the team of eight visitors are in the country to raise money so they can build a school in their native village.

By comparison to European countries, the warriors live in a deprived environment in Kenya with most staying in mud huts.

Lynne Jones, associate head teacher at Withycombe Raleigh Primary School, said it was an amazing day.

She added: "They did two performances to different groups of children.

"They sung and danced and had interaction activities with the pupils with walking sticks they brought in and shields.

"It was a humbling experience because they live in an environment where they do not have anything. Most of the people live in mud huts.

They are fundraising for money so that can have a school in their village.

They came in their full ceremonial dress. The children all donated money for the performance and they sold some of their jewellery. I am hoping that they made a lot of money. The children have not stopped talking about it. They will never forget the day. The children were spellbound..

There was six males and two females.

They are in England until November.

They are here because they want to make a better life for themselves in Kenya.

The school are so grateful for the experience they gave to the children. It was an eye-opener for them. We want to get cultural diversity into the school.