A BOGUS supply teacher has slipped into a Kidderminster school and turned a class of A-grade students into a mind-blowing rock band.

But, it is all in the name of art, as Baxter College students tune up for their latest production - Andrew Lloyd Webber's hit musical, School of Rock.

The 30-strong cast is led by two talented students, Ryan Brunt, 17, and Jack Simpson, 16, sharing the role of the failed wannabe rock star responsible for turning the class into guitar-shredding, bass-slapping musicians - setting out for victory in the Battle of the Bands.

Rehearsals have been given an extra boost by experienced director and West End performer Lucy Key, who treated the cast to an expert masterclass.

Lucy, who has appeared in hit musicals and operas including West Side Story, Annie and the Marriage of Figaro, has a unique insider knowledge of the current West End version of School of Rock as husband Chris - originally from Bewdley - is associate director and son Noah plays Freddie the drummer.

Head of creative arts at the Habberley Road school, Richard Ravenhall, said Lucy answered students' questions about the theatre business and guest directed several scenes.

Jack, whose star role as Dewey Finn follows on from his memorable performance in Little Shop of Horrors at the school earlier this year, said: "Lucy was amazing.

"She has really boosted everyone's confidence and helped us focus on where we can improve to make our show even better."

School of Rock is running at Baxter College Theatre between Monday, December 11, and Thursday, December 14.

Tickets cost £2 and can be purchased on the school website, baxtercollege.co.uk.