Pupils at Djanogly Strelley Academy have met their class namesake music star.

Mariatu Kanneh‑Mason, who plays the cello and piano, performed to 90 pupils during an assembly and took part in a question and answer session about her life and career so far.

Well-known in the city and beyond for their classical music talent, the Kanneh-Mason family are celebrated locally and internationally.

The youngest of seven musical siblings, Mariatu visited the school on 24th March 2026 accompanied by her mother, award-winning author Dr Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason.

All of the classes at the school, based on Helston Drive in Strelley, are named after inspirational Nottingham people who include the Kanneh-Mason family.

Amongst pupils attending the assembly were children from the Kanneh-Mason class. The class has been taught about the family’s achievements including their awards, musical careers and contribution to culture and the local community.

Sarah O’Connell, Headteacher, Djanogly Strelley Academy, said: “Raising aspirations and encouraging pupils to believe in themselves, and be the best they can be, helps to provide a foundation for future success.”

She added: “It was fantastic to welcome Mariatu and Kadiatu to the school to inspire the next generation as part of our wider commitment to celebrating Nottingham’s talent. The children were in awe and sat listening in amazement.”

Mariatu Kanneh‑Mason said: “It was an absolute pleasure for both of us.”

Djanogly Strelley Academy, which is Ofsted graded ‘good’, has around 400 pupils on roll aged two to 11. The school is part of Tapestry Learning Partnership, a growing family of schools across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

Mark Mallender, Chief Executive Officer, Tapestry Learning Partnership, said: “We want to provide exceptional experiences for our pupils that have a lasting positive impact and help them succeed. I would like to express my thanks to Mariatu and Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason for their invaluable support with this visit.”

Pictured: Mariatu Kanneh-Mason performs to Djanogly Strelley Academy pupils.