We are delighted to share that three of our ArtsEd alumni have been nominated for the distinguished 2023 Black British Theatre Awards in the category of Best Recent Graduates. This recognition not only casts a spotlight on the innate talents of our alumni, but it also speaks volumes about the standard of ArtsEd’s training and mentorship.

Jenna Bonner — An outstanding talent from our Sixth Form, Jenna made the bold decision to delve directly into the industry upon completing her Sixth Form studies. She is currently captivating audiences in her role as Swing in “Tina: The Musical” at the Aldwych Theatre.

Leah Vassell — A proud graduate of our BA Musical Theatre class of 2022, Leah’s exceptional talent sees her taking on the role of Alternate Jane Seymour/Catherine Parr in the renowned “Six: The Musical”.

Charis Alexandra — Yet another graduate from our BA Musical Theatre class of 2022, Charis is currently playing the role of Alline Bullock in “Tina: The Musical” at the Aldwych Theatre.

To Jenna, Leah, and Charis, our heartfelt congratulations. Your accomplishments are a testament to the dedication and passion with which you approach your craft, and we couldn’t be prouder.

ArtsEd is delighted to announce that it has appointed Mr Peter Middleton as the Day School and Sixth Form Interim Headteacher for the academic year 2023-24.

Peter is an experienced Head, Oxford graduate, and with a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Management. A lifelong learner, he is committed to continuous self-improvement and sets high expectations not only for academic excellence but also for the personal development of each individual student.

Peter grew up in Somerset and was educated at Radley College before reading Chemistry at Oriel College, Oxford. He began his teaching career at Cheltenham College and moved to St Edward’s School, Oxford, where he was a Housemaster and was responsible for Prep School Liaison. He was subsequently appointed as Deputy Head at Clifton College. From 2013 to 2020 he was Principal at Welbeck College, where students were on a pathway to careers within the armed forces.  There, he developed an environment that balanced academic standards and expectations with opportunities for students’ personal and career development.  He also ensured that both Welbeck and Clifton were given the highest ratings by ISI inspectors. After the closure of Welbeck, he was Head of Kensington Park School.

With a proven track record of supporting students on specialist career pathways, the Board of Trustees is convinced that this, coupled with Peter’s passion for the academic success and personal development of our students, makes him extremely well-placed to lead the Day School and Sixth Form through the next period of its development.

Peter said:

“It is an honour and privilege to have been invited to be the interim Headteacher of ArtsEd. Parents have only one opportunity to give their children the best possible education.  I am committed to working with parents, pupils and staff to ensure that ArtsEd delivers an exceptional education; where ambition and academic achievement are respected and highly valued, creativity is celebrated and diversity is embraced.  In an environment where the performing arts are at the heart of education, it is crucial the each individual is nurtured and challenged to become the best possible version of themselves.  I am commitment to ensuring that students will leave having achieved goals and aspirations of which they could only have dreamed.  I am really looking forward to joining the ArtsEd community in September and working with the inspirational staff, outstanding students and their parents.”

ArtsEd’s Principal, Dr Julie Spencer said:

“I am delighted about Peter’s appointment as Interim Headteacher. His impressive depth of expertise in the education sector means that Peter is exceptionally well qualified to lead the Day School and Sixth Form pupils and their inspirational teachers over the coming year”