What happens when creativity, collaboration and courage come together? At King’s College Riyadh, they create something truly lasting.

Over the past eight weeks, 17 students from Years 5 to 7 have taken part in our new Student Growth and Potential Initiative in Music, a programme designed to develop creativity, confidence and teamwork through an authentic, hands-on musical experience. Their challenge was an exciting one: to write and record the very first King’s College Riyadh school song.

The project began with a series of creative workshops where students shared ideas about what makes King’s such a special place. Together, they explored the values, friendships and sense of belonging that define our school community. These conversations became the foundation for the song’s lyrics, with the chorus emerging as a celebration of our House system, our shared experiences and the strong sense of family that makes King’s unique.

The next stage saw students compose the melody and develop the accompanying chords. It was one of the most challenging parts of the process, requiring creativity, perseverance and collaboration. From the outset, the students agreed they wanted the finished song to feel uplifting, joyful and full of school spirit.

Year 5 student Rakan Alaqeel reflected on the experience:

“I really enjoyed the experience. At first it was difficult because writing lyrics and coming up with song ideas was something new, but as we continued it became much easier and a lot of fun.”

The students’ musical ideas were then shared with the Saudi Music Hub, where professional musicians helped transform their compositions into a polished arrangement. Hearing the first draft was a memorable milestone, and through further workshops the students carefully reviewed the recording, providing thoughtful feedback to refine the final version.

The project culminated in an unforgettable visit to the Saudi Music Hub recording studio, where students recorded both solo performances and group vocals. Layering the chorus in smaller groups allowed them to create different textures and emotions, bringing the song to life in a truly professional setting.

Year 7 student Mariam El Mogharbel said:

“Creating the song was so much fun. Going to the recording studio was really exciting, and it was amazing to hear the final version.”

Principal Jacqueline Doran said:

“This project beautifully reflects what it means to be part of King’s College Riyadh. Our students demonstrated courage, creativity and collaboration at every stage, embracing new challenges and supporting one another throughout the journey. The finished song is far more than a piece of music; it is a celebration of our community and a lasting legacy that captures the spirit of King’s.”

The completed song is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when students are given the opportunity to create, collaborate and lead. It will remain part of the King’s College Riyadh story for years to come, celebrating the values that bring our community together.

As the lyrics remind us, we are one community, singing one song and King’s College Riyadh is where we belong.