Incredible moment Ed Sheeran stuns schoolchildren with surprise visit

Ed Sheeran turned up at the Tinderbox Collective, an initiative in Muirhouse, Edinburgh to foster and develop young musical talent, where budding singers shared their huge joy

Music legend Ed Sheeran stunned a group of students by turning up at their school this week.

The 33-year-old singer chatted with youngsters and even performed alongside a massive 100-strong choir, which featured delighted children from across Edinburgh.

The awe-struck kids in the Muirhouse neighbourhood of the city, home to the Tinderbox Collective, an initiative to foster and develop young musical talent, told of their joy. One boy called Maxwell said: "We were absolutely shocked. I’ve always admired Ed Sheeran and the way he sings and his music. I want to do music and now I feel even more motivated."

Another member of the Tinderbox Collective said: "Unbelievable. I really like Ed and I listen to his music. Just to see him right now is amazing. Crazy. Inspiring."

Sheeran, who has had 11 UK number ones, said: "Music education has shaped who I am. I’ve always enjoyed playing music, and it’s led to some of the best moments of my life." The centre in the Scottish capital represents the charitable Ed Sheeran Foundation, which aims to provide inclusive music education across the UK.

The singer, who has sold more than 150 million records worldwide, added he feels music education is important both in and out of school settings and feels it should be more comprehensive. However, the dad of two commended Scotland's move towards free music tuition while urging further efforts to make it universally inspiring and accessible.

But The Shape of You hitmaker, who spent large parts of 2024 on the road due to his The Mathematics Tour, feels more centres like the Tinderbox Collective can help offer opportunities to young people.

Jack Nissan, director of Tinderbox Collective, said: "Ed’s visit was so inspiring for all the young musicians in Tinderbox and it’s fantastic to have him advocate for music education and help build links with the wider music industry."

He further emphasised the need for collaboration, stating: "We need to work together across schools, the community and the industry to fill music education with as much energy, diversity and creativity as possible, and to make sure that it is accessible, relevant and inspiring for everyone."