HE may have 2.4 million followers on TikTok, but Strictly Come Dancing contestant George Clarke’s latest dedicated fans are too young to be allowed a social media account.
The 25-year-old social media personality’s dancing on the hit BBC show is inspiring pupils at Emersons Green Primary School, which he attended in his early years.
George, who moved on to Colston’s School in Stapleton – now known as Collegiate School – mid-way through Key Stage 2, may also be a familiar face to customers of Bottegino’s restaurant in Emersons Green, where he worked before his content-creating career took off.
Emersons Green head of school Soraya Young said pupils are “buzzing with excitement” at George’s performances on Strictly.
Mrs Young said: “George’s incredible journey on the dance floor has inspired many of the school’s children, sparking renewed enthusiasm for music, dance, and the arts across the school community.”
The school is currently preparing for its annual musical extravaganza, where children perform a variety of pieces, from classical to contemporary.
Many are being given lessons on instruments including ukuleles, guitars, drums, pianos and violins, as well as singing lessons, via the West of England Music Academy.
The school choir is making regular performances both at the school and local community, staging a recent performance at Doynton Memory Cafe for people with dementia and their carers.
Mrs Young said the arts are at the heart of the school’s vision, “inspiring children to explore their talents and express themselves confidently”.
George, who also has 630,000 subscribers to his YouTube channel, is impressing the Strictly judges: he and professional dance partner Alexis Warr were fourth on the overall leader board as the Voice went to print.
When he started on the show he said: “Honestly, I’ve got no idea what I’m doing but I’m excited to get stuck in… and potentially fall over a fair bit.”
Mrs Young said his success so far “is a powerful reminder to the children that with passion and dedication, dreams can become reality”.
She added: “The school community is proud to support him and looks forward to following his journey on the show.”
George Clarke and partner Alexis Warr Burton. Picture: BBC/Guy Levy