Introduction Background Waitākiri School in Christchurch was formed in 2014 as part of the larger restructuring of Christchurch schools following the 2010–2011 earthquakes. The new school motto at the time, ‘creating a new community school together’, reflects the significant ongoing psychological and environmental challenges that learners, staff, and families have been facing, including ongoing effects of trauma, new ways of doing things, job insecurities, high staff absences, working across two sites, homes being rebuilt or repaired, and substantial road works. Following the merger, teachers decided to focus their energies primarily on fostering well-being and rebuilding school community, rather than on education concerns. Daily singing was one of three activities (singing, physical