Mercury Prize-winning musician Sampha Sisay returned to his old school to open its new music pavilion and performing arts centre.

Sampha was captain of music at Ewell Castle School, where he studied A-level Music, took piano lessons and was part of the jazz band before leaving in 2007 to embark on his career in music.

During the visit on Friday, November 24, he gave an impromptu question and answer session with sixth form students, telling them not to give up on their dreams and stressing the importance of self-belief.

Principal Peter Harris said: “We were delighted when Sampha found time in his busy schedule to come and officially open our music pavilion. It was a pleasure to welcome him back and he enjoyed speaking to his former teachers and current pupils, including those studying GCSE and A Level Music. His visit has certainly inspired many and it will be remembered for a long time to come.”

At the school, Sampha met the current captain of music, Edward Smith, who is at associate diploma level on the trumpet, and currently applying for specialist music colleges.

He began playing trumpet aged 8, and is following in Sampha's footsteps not only as music captain, but also by joining in with the long tradition of brass, woodwind and jazz bands at the school.

Sampha won the Mercury Prize this year for his debut album Process, beating records by Ed Sheeran, Stormzy and alt-J.

He was born in Morden to Sierra Leonean parents, and first found his way to music by learning piano at home.

Later, his older brother made himself a home studio and he discovered music production.

The performing arts academy will allow the school to offer timetabled training for sixth form students in dance, drama and music, following a syllabus from Trinity College London.