The much-loved Urban Sounds for Uyogo charity talent show is set to return to Kenilworth School this week.

The show, which resumed last year after it was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic, is now set to run across three nights to raise money for two different charities.

Organised by sixth form students, the talent show forms part of the school's annual 'Africa Week' and will run from February 14 to 16.

"We have got some really good acts this year. We have a Teletubbies act, Ali G, and an Abba tribute, so there is real variety in the performances - singing, dancing, comedy," said USU co-ordinator and Religious Studies teacher Luke Ovenden.

"It was a really successful show last year, we have gone from pre-pandemic two shows in a week to post-pandemic three shows. 

"Last year it was for limiting numbers but we have kept it as three shows this year because of last year's success."

Pupils are raising funds for USU's main charities: Elephants for Africa and Kenilworth Uyogo Friendship Link.

USU has helped provide schoolgirls in rural Tanzania with bikes to get to school (image supplied)

Students have raised more than £100,000 over the past two decades through USU, with money most recently going to pay for bikes to help girls in rural Tanzania get to school.

Working closely with KUFL the initiative has ensured that all girls at Umiki Secondary School can now access education easily, and now the project is aiming to do the same for young boys in the region.

"Seeing the difference the projects make is great for our students," Mr Ovenden added.

"Sources in Uyogo say the drop out from the school is much less because students can get to school much quicker and safer. 

"So Kenilworth students can really see the impact their fundraising makes."

As well as USU Night, the committee has held a number of events throughout the year to raise money.

During a charity week last term the group held a 'USU Take Me Out' show based on the TV programme, and also sold personalised candy canes over Christmas.

Dropout numbers at Umiki Secondary School have reduced thanks to fundraising from Kenilworth School students (image supplied)

Students are also set to help decorate Kenilworth Books in Talisman Square for Africa Week.

And Mr Ovenden said it was great to see the continued effort the pupils put in after school for the project.

"All the charity work they do is above and beyond and they put in so many hours outside of their academic time which is really impressive to see," he said.

"It is quite inspiring actually to see their capacity for charity work and also their enthusiasm to make a difference. 

"It is so inspiring for me as a teacher to see their commitment to help those less fortunate for themselves."

USU Night is organised and run by Kenilworth School students (image supplied)

Head teacher Hayden Abbott added: "I am delighted that Kenilworth School and Sixth Form is supporting Africa Week once again this year.

"The hard work and effort that our students have put into the fundraising initiatives this week will make a huge difference to communities far afield and will raise awareness of inequality and the differences that still exist between the rich and poor in 2023.

"Our students and staff are a real credit to the school and the town."