The Board of Trustees is delighted to announce the appointment of four new Trustees. They were selected for their expertise in leadership and experience across a range of sectors including Finance, Legal and Secondary Education.

“They all have a passion for the performing arts and I have no doubt that they will make excellent additions to our board.”

Claire Blunt, Chair of Trustees

Sarah Hopwood (Finance)

Sarah Hopwood is an experienced business leader and CFO; a qualified Chartered Accountant, with extensive experience in financial services, media and entertainment, family businesses, education, and the arts. Sarah has been involved in the management of the international opera charity, Glyndebourne, for nearly 30 years as Trustee, Managing Director and previously CFO. Sarah now has a portfolio of non-executive and Trustee roles in organisations ranging from Ed-Tech to the Arts. She lives in East Sussex and is very committed to local community engagement, particularly in ensuring access to the Arts for everyone.

Laura McGaughey (Finance)

Laura McGaughey is a senior finance and operational executive who has spent her career in UK and international media organisations. She qualified as a Chartered Accountant at Ernst & Young and has since worked largely in TV and Film, starting at the BBC/BBC Studios, where she played a key role in the transformation of BBC Studios production to a commercial operation. She is currently Chief Financial and Operating Officer at Anton Studios, a European independent studio. Throughout her career she has supported boards in delivering growth and organisational change, as well as chairing gender and diversity boards, including setting up and supported mentoring and women’s finance networks. Laura holds non-executive roles on BAFTA’s Audit and Risk Committee, as well as at Knowledge Schools Trust, a multi-academy Trust, where she sits on the Board of Governors and chairs their Finance and Operations Committee.

Richard Nicholson (Secondary Education)

A musician by training, Richard Nicholson was a chorister at Southwell Minster and subsequently organ scholar at Lichfield Cathedral before being elected Organ Scholar at Pembroke College, Oxford. Richard began his teaching career in west London and was Director of Music in two schools before moving into school leadership. He is currently Foundation Principal of Warwick Schools Foundation, one of the largest educational charities in the U.K. He is passionate about the place of the arts as part of every child’s educational entitlement and actively supports instrumental and choral projects to bring that to fruition in the town of Warwick and the wider region.

Matthew Wilson (Legal)

Matt is Chief Legal Officer at Fremantle, which is a global content producer of over 12,000 hours of original programming every year across drama, entertainment, documentaries, and film. He joined Fremantle in August 2021 and sits on the global board. Prior to Fremantle, Matt was based in Amsterdam as General Counsel for EMEA & APAC for Uber, leading a diverse, international team who helped Uber Rides to scale, launch Uber Eats and JUMP bikes (now Lime) and stabilise and grow the business across over 50 countries, culminating in a successful listing on the NYSE in 2019. Matt started his career with four years at Baker & McKenzie, followed by an overall six-year stint in senior roles for global telco Telefónica with a spell at Arsenal Football Club in the middle. Matt studied Economics and Politics and is a practicing Solicitor (England and Wales).

We are thrilled to welcome Sarah, Laura, Richard and Matthew to ArtsEd.

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Claire Blunt as Chair of the Board of Trustees from 31 March 2025. Claire is an experienced strategic leader, board director, and advocate for education and the arts. Claire’s governance expertise is extensive, informed by her financial and legal qualifications and multiple board directorships. As Independent Non-Executive Chair at One Media iP Group Plc, she has ensured adherence to governance frameworks while supporting strategic growth. She has also contributed to the charitable sector through non-executive roles at The Archangel Trust and Newstraid Benevolent fund, and most recently in her executive capacity as CEO of The National Family Centre, overseeing financial and educational initiatives with a focus on equity and opportunity.

Claire’s love for performing arts began in childhood, later working in theatre and dance to fund her university education. This early passion has evolved into a lifelong commitment to fostering talent and championing the transformative power of the arts. With a career spanning executive and non-executive leadership roles, Claire has successfully guided organisations through complex challenges, driving sustainable growth and fostering inclusive cultures.

A strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, Claire has led initiatives to drive equity across industries. At Hearst, the global media business, she spearheaded a transformative change in the UK to the annual pay review process, significantly increasing employee engagement and addressing gender pay disparities.

Claire’s passion for the arts, along with her business acumen and governance expertise, perfectly position her to support ArtsEd as it continues to deliver world-class vocational training and inspire the next generation of performers.

Acting Chair of Trustees, Farida Mannan, said:

“It has been a privilege to serve as the Acting Chair of ArtsEd; it has been a remarkable journey. This role has brought me a profound appreciation for the talent, dedication, and creativity that defines our community.

As I step down from this position, it is with great confidence and excitement that I, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, welcome Claire Blunt as the new Chair and I look forward to working with her in the future. Claire brings a wealth of experience and passion, and I am certain that under her leadership of the Board, ArtsEd will continue to thrive and inspire the future generations.”

Claire Blunt said:

“I am thrilled to join ArtsEd as the newly appointed Chair and to champion its mission to inspire and empower the next generation of creative talent. With a deep passion for the arts and education I am committed to driving innovation, excellence and opportunity whilst working with the incredible staff and students.”

We would like to thank Farida Mannan for her ongoing stewardship of ArtsEd, and in particular for stepping up as Acting Chair during the last year.

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Louise Jackson as the Principal of ArtsEd from July 2025.  Louise brings a wealth of senior leadership experience across a diverse range of educational and performing arts institutions, and we are confident that her vision and expertise will be instrumental in guiding ArtsEd into an exciting future.

With a distinguished career that includes leadership and teaching roles at BIMM University, Trinity Laban, and the University of Chichester, Louise has a proven track record of driving institutional change and enhancing academic provision. At BIMM University, she played a pivotal role in the successful transformation of the institution, implementing a new operating model and supporting the integration of MetFilm School following acquisition in 2024. Her focus on student outcomes and prioritising quality and academic performance has characterised her commitment to educational excellence and student success.

Louise is widely recognised for her ability to lead significant cultural and operational change, engaging with a broad range of stakeholders to build strong, collaborative relationships. She has championed empathetic approaches to leadership at every institution she has worked with, ensuring that staff, students, and parents are supported through periods of transition. Her experience of regulatory frameworks, quality assurance, and academic governance will be invaluable as ArtsEd continues to strengthen its position in the sector.

In addition to her leadership credentials, Louise’s commitment to teaching excellence has been recognised by the award of a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship, the highest award for teaching in higher education in the UK and she is a passionate advocate for the value of academic research and practice-based scholarship in the arts. Louise’s research has focused on specialist arts education, such as that delivered in conservatoires and drama schools. Her work has focused on developing inclusive approaches to teaching and curriculum and the development of artists who are teaching in higher education. Through this, she has mentored artist-educators to undertake their first piece of research based on their creative or teaching practices. More recently she has focused on leadership in arts education and enjoys mentoring emerging leaders from different arts backgrounds.

Described as a dynamic, collaborative, and people-focused leader, Louise’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for ArtsEd. Louise brings a unique and authentic perspective to her work, aligning closely with ArtsEd’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all. Her strategic insight, coupled with her deep understanding of the performing arts landscape, will help us build on our legacy of excellence and innovation.

We look forward to welcoming Louise to ArtsEd and working together to achieve our shared ambitions.

Acting Chair of Trustees, Farida Mannan, said

 “We are very excited to welcome Louise to ArtsEd, bringing, as she does, such a wealth of educational and leadership experience. We were very impressed by the exceptional pool of talent that had applied for this pivotal role and are grateful to Odgers for their expertise in guiding us through the rigorous process of appointment. Louise’s arrival will signal the beginning of an exciting new chapter for ArtsEd, overlapping, as it does, with the imminent appointment of a permanent Chair of Trustees and other new members of the Board. On behalf of the trustees, I would also like to extend my thanks to the Executive Leadership Team and all the staff at ArtsEd who have stepped up during the period of this vacancy. We are very grateful for the stability you have provided.”

Louise Jackson said:

 “It is a privilege to be invited to take up the role of Principal at ArtsEd. I am looking forward to working with the talented pupils, students, staff, alumni and Board members to ensure the continuation of the world leading provision in acting, musical theatre and dance training. Education is a powerful force for transformation, and I am committed to fostering an environment where creativity, passion, and excellence can thrive. Together, we will build on ArtsEd’s impressive history, embracing innovation while staying true to the values that make this institution so special. ArtsEd is perfectly positioned to be at the forefront, in the UK and internationally, of training that is representative of 21^st Century Britain and beyond. I am excited to collaborate with the entire community—supporting, inspiring, and empowering every individual to reach their full potential.”

We are thrilled to celebrate our Vice President, David Grindrod, who has been honoured with the gong for Creative Collaboration by the Los Angeles-based Casting Society’s 40th annual Artios Awards. This prestigious award recognises David’s exceptional impact on the entertainment industry.

A longstanding advocate and ambassador of ArtsEd, David has been Vice President since 2017, following six years as a trustee. His immeasurable support, advice, and expertise have been invaluable to our students and staff, helping to shape the next generation of performers.

David’s influence extends far beyond ArtsEd. In 1998, he launched David Grindrod Associates, a company specialising in casting for West End and international musical theatre, as well as film and television.

As well as being our Vice President, David is a Trustee of Watermill Theatre Newbury and The Council for Dance, Drama and Musical Theatre, and he is a proud Associate Artist of the Old Vic Theatre. Our Acting Chair of Trustees shared:

“David Grindrod’s unwavering dedication in mentoring the students at ArtsEd has been nothing short of transformative. His exceptional expertise and passion have not only elevated the institution but have also inspired countless students to reach new heights in their artistic journeys. David’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering creativity is a true testament to his remarkable vision, leadership and loyalty to performing arts education. We are very fortunate to have David as our Vice President.”
Farida Mannan, Acting Chair of Trustees.

Jonathan O’Boyle, Director of School of Musical Theatre also extended his congratulations, sharing:

“We are delighted for David and his award and recognition for Creative Collaboration at the 40th annual Artios Awards. David is an outstanding casting director, mentor and supporter of ArtsEd. His guidance and support of our students is extremely valuable and unwavering. He brings a wealth of knowledge, wisdom and experience to us, for which, we are extremely grateful. We are fortunate to have him as our Vice President, and we look forward to continuing our longstanding relationship with him. Congratulations David!”

David’s recognition at the Artios Awards is a testament to his passion, skill, and dedication. We are immensely proud to have him as part of the ArtsEd community and look forward to seeing his continued impact on the world of entertainment.

Image: David Grindrod pictured with Judy Craymer who presented the award. 

This December marks 10 years since the sudden passing of Chris Hornby so we wanted to reflect on the wonderful legacy that has been created in his name.

Chris sadly passed away unexpectedly at the age of 43 whilst working at the Lyceum Theatre as Resident Director of The Lion King in December 2014.

Chris performed in many West End shows, including Starlight Express, Anything Goes, Billy Elliot and Guys and Dolls. Chris also worked as a successful director, choreographer, dance captain and actor.

Chris was much loved in the industry and was passionate about supporting young and upcoming talent. As a former ArtsEd student and bursary recipient himself, Chris knew the vital role that bursaries play in a young person’s journey into the performing arts industry and in widening access to drama training.

Chris’s bursary had a big impact on his life and all those he went on to meet.

The Chris Hornby Fund was set up in 2015 as a lasting legacy that will help talented students at ArtsEd facing financial hardship.

The first Chris Hornby Bursary Scholar Jacob Thomas, graduated in 2020, completing his BA in Musical Theatre.

Jacob Thomas said:

“The support I have received not only financially but emotionally from Tim and the Chris Hornby bursary has been a crucial factor in my development and completing my degree. This has been a life changing opportunity that would not have been possible without the bursary. I am so excited to see where my career takes me, and to make Tim and Chris proud.”

The bursary has since supported four other scholars into the industry, Maria Connelly, covering and playing Christine in the European Tour of Phantom of the Opera, Ria Tanaka, touring the UK in Chicago after performing in two West End Shows, Bella Brown, playing one of The Fates and covering and playing Eurydice in Hades Town and Asher Forth, as Green Arrow and covering and playing Rusty and Electra in Starlight Express.

The current bursary scholar is Deshawn Gordon who is busy rehearsing for Sister Act after having great success as Jack in Into The Woods at ArtsEd.

We are all extremely grateful for the continued generosity of our supporters, Chris’s family and friends and for the continuing support from Chris’s partner, Tim English.

The wonderful thing about Chris’s fund is that the vital financial assistance is accompanied by invaluable personal support, in the form of Tim’s expert mentoring and encouragement. We would really love to be able to continue this connection in years to come, supporting the next generation of performers and story-tellers.

If you would like to help us remember Chris and keep the bursary going, then please make a donation today. Every donation will make a difference, enabling future students to thrive and keeping Chris’s legacy bright.

Make a Donation to The Chris Hornby Bursary Fund

A statement from Tim English:

 “Chris was a great advocate for younger performers and seeing our scholars shine warms my heart and comforts me that his death has not been in vain.
I’m determined that the Chris Hornby Bursary should continue to provide funds and mentoring for as many students as we can. Everyone with a dream to perform deserves a little help.Thank you for your continued, love and support and honouring Chris’ memory. It’s hugely appreciated.

Lots of love,

Tim English”

In the interest of settling a long-standing disagreement, the Board of Trustees has prepared the following public statement.

Matthew Bulmer joined ArtsEd as Headteacher in January 2022, at a time of significant upheaval and uncertainty. He worked hard to champion the Day School and Sixth Form (DSSF) and his dedication, vision, and hard work was much appreciated by Trustees.

Matthew performed all the duties expected of a Headteacher, prioritising the needs of students and parents, and his contributions had a considerable impact on the DSSF. On arrival, he successfully filled the school with new pupils within a short timeframe, enabling a strong start to the school year. This accomplishment was highly valued by the Board of Trustees.

During Matthew’s time at ArtsEd, he raised concerns over the management structure and style and, subsequently, working relationships, which he considered were impacting DSSF independence, institutional welfare and quality of provision. The Trustees took these concerns seriously, seeking solutions and subsequently arranging for an external examination of alleged behaviours. Despite these efforts, however, a satisfactory resolution could not be reached, and Matthew departed ArtsEd in August 2023.

Following the publication of allegations in Deadline in November 2023, the Trustees commissioned an external, barrister-led investigation, the findings of which have since been released publicly. The Trustee Board has accepted that there are important lessons to be learned, and we are implementing necessary changes.

During this period, educational provision at ArtsEd has been subject to examination by both Ofsted and the Independent Schools Inspectorate. In both instances, the findings have confirmed areas of outstanding excellence with all standards being met, evidencing institutional effectiveness.

ArtsEd and its Trustees acknowledge that Matthew acted in good faith when raising his concerns and was seeking to uphold the values of the institution. The Trustees regret the distress and disruption caused to Matthew and others by his departure. It is our hope that this statement makes clear the contribution Matthew has made to our institution and that it enables him to move on from this challenging period to achieve the leadership successes he deserves.

We are pleased to announce that we have commenced the recruitment process for a new Principal to lead ArtsEd.
To support us in finding the ideal candidate, Odgers, a leading executive search firm, has been appointed. The position is being advertised on prominent platforms such as Diversity Jobsite and The Guardian to attract a broad and diverse pool of applicants.

“As we embark on the search for a new Principal, we are focused on finding a visionary leader who shares our passion for the performing arts and our commitment to educational excellence. This is an exciting time for ArtsEd, and we look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead for our students, staff, and the entire community.”  Farida Mannan, Acting Chair of Trustees.

This recruitment marks a significant step in the future of ArtsEd as we continue to uphold our commitment to providing world-class education in the performing arts. We are confident that this process will attract a leader who shares our dedication to excellence and inclusivity. We look forward to the opportunities that this new chapter will bring.

Download the Candidate Pack