Author Archive

Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025

Posted on: January 22nd, 2025 by Joshua Robinson

ArtsEd’s first event of 2025 was a resounding success, as we welcomed over 100 guests, representing over 40 businesses, to our annual Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks, held in partnership with the Chiswick Book Festival. This much-anticipated evening brought together a vibrant mix of local businesses, arts organisations, and supporters, all gathered to celebrate creativity, foster connections, and strengthen the rich cultural fabric of our community.

“We started these New Year Drinks nine years ago as a way of bringing together the arts organisations in Chiswick, with the local businesses and media that support them, so they could get to know each other – and it has spawned lots of exciting new partnerships, friendships and events. We have already hit the ground running in what is going to be a bumper year for culture.”
Torin Douglas, Director of Chiswick Book Festival

Speeches, Connections, and Celebration

The evening officially opened with a warm welcome from Torin Douglas, representing both Chiswick Book Festival and the Bedford Park Society. He spoke passionately about the long-standing relationship between Chiswick’s thriving arts scene and its local businesses, highlighting how events like these help cultivate a sense of shared purpose and community investment. Following Torin’s address, Peter Middleton, Headteacher of the Day School & Sixth Form at ArtsEd, took to the stage to share ArtsEd’s mission and aspirations for the future.

We are proudly one of the most successful performing arts institutions both in the UK and on the world stage. We all know the outstanding calibre of the talent here at ArtsEd, but we want to provide more support for our individuals via our bursaries and scholarships, and allow more young people to access and thrive in our unique performing arts programmes. We need the support of our Friends and local community to help us continue to provide outstanding opportunities for the next generation of young people whose focus is on acting, dancing and musical theatre
Peter Middleton, Headteacher of the Day School & Sixth Form

Culinary Delights & Outstanding Performances

Sixth Form student Cici Lihn performing at Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025
Sixth Form student Todd Dachtler performing at the Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025
School of Musical Theatre, Class of 2025 student Emma McGiff performing at the Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025
School of Musical Theatre, Class of 2025, student Deshawn Gordon performing at the Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025
Cici Lihn performing at Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025
Todd Dachtler performing at the Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025
Emma McGiff performing at the Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025
Deshawn Gordon performing at the Chiswick Arts and Business Drinks 2025

Guests were treated to an array of delicious offerings, generously provided by our event partners. Chiswick Cinema delighted attendees with Joe & Seph’s popcorn and exclusive gift cards, while Harriet Benton served up their signature pepper pots and exquisite canapés. The Hogarth Club offered discount vouchers and exclusive day passes, and TruffleHound provided indulgent dessert canapés.

The entertainment for the evening, was captivating and showcased the incredible talent at ArtsEd, from the Day School to Higher education.

Sixth Form students Todd Dachtler and Ceci Lihn provided an enchanting performance, accompanying themselves on guitar. Ceci’s rendition of ‘Both Sides Now’ by Joni Mitchell was deeply moving, while Todd’s powerful performance of ‘Say It To Me Now’ from Once left the room spellbound.

Later in the evening, third-year BA Musical Theatre students took to the stage. Emma McGiff delivered a breathtaking performance of ‘Woman’ from The Pirate Queen, followed by Deshawn Gordon’s stirring rendition of ‘Corner of the Sky’ from Pippin, both accompanied by Brook Blackford-Jenkins on piano.

Following their performances, Emma and Deshawn participated in an engaging Q&A session, led by Susie Butt, Head of Development at ArtsEd, where they shared insights into their ArtsEd journey and the impact of bursary support on their training.

Looking Ahead: The Future of ArtsEd

The evening concluded with a heartfelt address from Susie Butt, who thanked attendees for their ongoing support and highlighted our fundraising goals for the future.

Every donation, every partnership, and every connection made here tonight directly contributes to the development of our students and will help us reach our ambitious fundraising targets to further support talented students and widen access to our training programmes. We look forward to sharing our fundraising plans with you soon.
Susie Butt, Head of Development

At ArtsEd, we are incredibly proud to be part of such a dynamic and supportive community. A huge thank you to all our partners, attendees, and collaborators for making this evening a truly memorable celebration of the arts.

If you’d like to learn more about how you can support ArtsEd and become an ArtsEd Friend, please get in touch with development@artsed.co.uk or visit the link below:

Support ArtsEd

 

With special thanks to our event partners:

Chiswick Cinema, Chiswick Book Festival, Harriet Benton, The Hogarth Club, and TruffleHound.

Reflections with Award Winning Young Filmmaker – an Interview with Louie Damman

Posted on: December 6th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

We are immensely proud to celebrate the achievement of Louie Damman, a Year 9 Day School student, who won the Young Filmmaker’s Award at the recent 2024 Chiswick In Film Festival.

Louie’s short film, WARtism, was judged by a prestigious panel, including Academy Award-winning actor Colin Firth.  The Festival, held at Chiswick Cinema, showcased the incredible talent of young filmmakers, with Louie’s work shining through.

“We are immensely proud of Louie and his outstanding achievement in winning the Young Filmmaker’s Award at the Chiswick In Film Festival. While this incredible film was completed independently of his work at ArtsEd, We now eagerly look forward to the work Louie will go on to create in his GCSE Film Studies course.  Louie’s ability to craft such a thoughtful and moving piece reflects not only his individual talent but also the passion and dedication we aim to inspire in all our students. We couldn’t be more impressed with what he has accomplished.”
Mark Fisher, Head of Film Studies and Deputy Director of Sixth Form.



Following this award-winning success, Louie provided a unique insight into the film in his reflections with Mark Fisher:

Watching the opening of your film, there’s something about the style that reminds me of the film Slumdog Millionaire which we study in year 10 GCSE Film Studies. You use a lot of canted angles, quick edits, close-ups and your first use of flashback appears early on. I wonder, are there any films that you were specifically inspired by? 

The opening of the film was designed to make the audience feel overwhelmed or discomforted, putting them in the world of someone with ASC.  Given that the boy in the film tries to remain masked throughout it, it was necessary to use the cinematography and sound design in an exaggerated way to relay the feeling, instead of through acting. The sound and imagery of the racing trains through the station and the screeching sounds that trains make, came rapidly out of the blackness and darkness of the opening lines. “it’s a war on my senses an assault on my brain” I was hoping to make the audience wonder “what does that opening line mean”, and then instantly be hit with the sharp noises of the trains

I was partly inspired by Tim Burton’s Edward Scissor hands where he uses the Dutch/canted angles to invoke a feeling of tension and fear, and another look on how to view images.  The quick edits were also a method to invoke a slight sense of chaos and confusion or lack of clarity which is exactly what a person with an overwhelmed sensory system might feel.

We used this rhetoric throughout the film until the end where I wanted to bring about a sense of relief and calm for the viewers when the edits become less rapid and the angles straighter (the approach to the war memorial). You’ll notice it was also edited in slower motion and in the bed scene, the boy changes for the first and only time out of his red clothing into a tranquil palate of green hues with both the bedding and clothing to represent how he is feeling at peace.

There were many other films that I referenced in different ways for WARtism. There were two Spielberg films in particular, the beach landings scene in Saving Private Ryan was my inspiration for the filming of the WW2 sea and underwater scenes. The reason for choosing red as the colour for the boy to wear (both his hoodie and swim trunks) was influenced by the scenes with the girl in the red coat in Schindler’s List and the impact the colour made on the audience.

The WW2 cinematography was very much influenced by the stunningly beautiful black and white visuals in the Lars Von Trier film Europa.

 

What was your planning process? Did you storyboard your entire film or come up with a shot list to stick to? 

Ha! The planning process was mildly chaotic in its own right! What can I say…..?

It was a very ‘organic’ and ‘experimental’ process! Never having attempted to make a full film in the past, of course the learning curve was enormous when it came to trying to figure out which ideas were and weren’t achievable. The film was initially going to be a time travel movie with a young boy travelling back in time to Chiswick in WW2 when it was very badly bombed. I then decided to ditch that idea and go for a story about a cool urban boy involved in the art/ music scene, but couldn’t come up with a cohesive and relevant storyline.

We then decided to just walk around Chiswick, absorbing and reflecting and seeing what we came up with. At the time, we were with a family member who is neurodiverse and who had an overwhelming reaction to the noise and chaos of a regular Saturday around Turnham Green and Chiswick High St. The seed for the story was planted! I initially wanted to include a scene for each of the five senses, but once the film was put together, it went over the five-minute maximum rule for entries to the competition, so rather than compromise the other scenes by cutting them shorter, I decided to chop the scene of the assault on the sense of touch entirely. It was the weakest scene we did, so I wasn’t too bothered by having to do this.

Now that I have had the experience from making this film, I have started storyboarding my next film as I have a clearer picture of how to achieve my ideas.

 

I adore the lighting in the sequence where the protagonist walks beside the fence and the way the sunlight creates a wonderful strobe effect. Was this a planned effect or a moment of inspiration on location? Were there any other moments in the film that were not pre-planned?  

The sequence walking beside the fence was definitely planned! I came up with the idea of sunlight through a fence as we were thinking about the best way to achieve a ‘strobe’ effect for the assault on vision. Of course, this then lent itself perfectly to converting to German soldiers shining torches through trees to achieve a similar effect for the WW2 scene. My mum and I spent around 4 hours googling where to find palisade fencing…. We were halfway to booking a hotel in North Yorkshire where there was an expo of palisade fencing when my stepdad discovered what we were looking for and in 30 seconds put pay to all our hard graft by saying he used to run beside a fence in Sunbury when he was training for the London marathon where the sun strobing through would give him a migraine! Thanks to google earth, the fencing was located and all we had to do was wait for a sunny day and make a guess given its orientation what time to go…. We were lucky!

There were several unplanned moments that we jumped on! The guitarist just happened to be playing at Turnham Green when we were filming under the railway bridge, and we asked his permission to be filmed. He upped the energy of his playing when we did, which was fantastic. He was so very talented!

Similarly, we went to Hayling Island and Andark swimming lake in Portsmouth/ Southampton respectively. Whilst we were there, we visited the D-Day Museum and found that they had the last remaining original tank carrier boat from the landings. They were so very brilliant when we asked if it was possible to film onboard, even escorting us around so that I could carry my replica gun without panicking the general public!

 

I know some directors are renowned for shooting far more footage than they need, whereas others keep most of what they shoot in the film. What was your experience? Were there multiple takes of each scene or did you have hardly any wasted footage? 

I have so much extra footage, partly as I got a little overexcited by what we were managing to capture and partly because without much experience of filmmaking I wasn’t aware of how little 5 minutes of film actually is! I certainly wouldn’t consider any of the footage ‘wasted’.  We have the best footage for one day, making an edit of the comedy bloopers – We may not share that with Mr Firth and Andrea!! We also have some incredible unused black and white footage of the soldier in many other scenarios. We intend to use this one day in another film. I mean, it’s not cheap to rent all those uniforms and travel around the countryside, so one may as well use them to their max whilst one has the opportunity.

 

Is here a shot in your film that you are most proud of? Why that shot in particular? 

I think I’m really very proud of the black and white shots where the soldier starts submerged under the water then emerges with that incredible lighting behind. In part because, although I was wearing a wetsuit under the uniform and everyone else in the lake were only wearing swim costumes, it was so cold. I really had to go, “ok Louie come on”. And dip my head under – I like to hope Von Trier would approve of the soldier standing in sea shot.

 

There are so many excellent aspects to the film; the acting, directing, cinematography, editing, sound and art direction. Moving forward, which of these roles intrigue you the most and why? 

Well of course I can’t take credit for everything! My stepdad is a music producer and without him teaching me about sound design and editing and assisting with the entire process as well as composing the score for me, the film wouldn’t have turned out the way it did. Similarly, my mum is a therapist and visual artist, so I could consult her on emotional aspects and symbolic visuals to use within the film. We also co-wrote the poem. We are lucky in that we all have different skill sets and work well together as a team. My dream has always been to act and direct in film, and this is something I want to pursue.

 

Great directors often establish their own unique signature style. Has this experience helped you to think about what might be your style should you continue to make more films? Do you like realism? Experimentation? Storytelling? Symbolism? Films that explore social issues?  

To be honest, I think I am too inexperienced to know what I want my signature style will be. Of course, in the early stages it can’t really be anything other than experimental, but all I can tell you is my next film will likely be exploring social mobility and question whether climbing the ladder actually brings happiness …… the rest is a secret ……

 

Louie, at the end of your film, I noticed your dedication to your family. Is it ok to ask you whether you based this film then on personal experience?

You know, so many people who have watched WARtism have assumed that I have Autistic Spectrum Disorder, or Autistic Spectrum Condition, as is the newer term.  I don’t, but I know many people close to me who do, both friends and family, and I felt I wanted to give a voice to their unseen daily struggles. I really hope I did justice to both acting the part and portraying how ASC might feel to people experiencing the condition.

Thank you Louie very much indeed for this wonderful opportunity to understand more about your amazing film – many, many congratulations on achieving such outstanding award-winning success.


Apply Now to Our Day School & Sixth Form!

At ArtsEd, we inspire and nurture talent, empowering students to achieve incredible successes.

Whether it’s filmmaking, performing arts, or academic excellence, we provide the support, and guidance for students to shine. Join a school where creativity and achievement thrive.

Discover your potential. Apply today to ArtsEd Day School & Sixth Form!

Find out more     Download our Prospectus     Book a Visit     Apply Now

ArtsEd recruitment of a new Chair of the Board of Trustees

Posted on: November 20th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

The Board of Trustees is pleased to announce an update on the recruitment of a new Chair of the Board of Trustees. To ensure alignment with our recent recruitment process for our new Principal, we have partnered with Odgers Berndtson to support us in this important appointment.

Further details can be found here.

 


28.03.2024

We are pleased to announce that the Trustees have appointed Peridot Partners to commence the search for ArtsEd’s new Chair of Trustees.

 

Peridot Partners, renowned for their Board Search programme, bring over 12 years of experience in recruiting individuals to boards, executive positions and specialist functional roles in similar institutions. Operating as a sector-leading specialist, Peridot Partners has garnered acclaim for their work in charity, non-profit, health, and education sectors.  Their values strongly resonate with ArtsEd, particularly their unwavering commitment to inclusivity and excellence across all sectors.

 

“The Chair of the Board is a vital role for ArtsEd, providing effective leadership to our governance structures, including chairing the Board of Trustees. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the entire organisation, we would like to extend our gratitude to Farida Mannan for stepping up as the Acting Chair during this transitional period.

As the pinnacle of leadership within ArtsEd, the Chair plays a pivotal role in guiding our institution. Through our collaboration with Peridot Partners, we are confident in finding a Chair who not only shares our organisational values but also possesses the capability to lead us as we deliver exceptional performing arts education.”

Ruth Mundy, Trustee and Chair of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee

 

For those interested in learning more about the role and the application process, please visit the Peridot Partners website here: https://www.peridotpartners.co.uk/jobs/chair-of-the-board-of-trustees-artsed/

 

We are excited about the opportunities this partnership brings and look forward to welcoming our new Chair of Trustees to the ArtsEd community.

 

ArtsEd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff (permanent and visiting) and volunteers to share this commitment; all staff are required to undergo background checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023 regulations and to hold an enhanced DBS.

ArtsEd Applications Now Open for All Courses!

Posted on: October 23rd, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

We are thrilled to announce that applications are now open across all of our courses at ArtsEd, spanning from Day School to our renowned undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Excitingly, this year, we’ve already seen a record number of applications—surpassing last year’s figures at this time—making now the perfect time to apply and secure your place at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools.

Here’s a breakdown of our diverse course offerings:

Day School

Sixth Form

CertHE in Acting

CertHE in Musical Theatre

BA (Hons) Acting 

BA (Hons) Musical Theatre 

MA Acting

Part-Time Foundations


Musical Showcase
Classroom
Drama Showcase
Dance Classroom
Musical Showcase
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Day School (ages 11-16)

ArtsEd’s Day School provides a dynamic combination of academic excellence and performing arts education. Students benefit from a well-rounded curriculum where their passion for acting, dance, and musical theatre is nurtured alongside traditional academic subjects. This holistic approach ensures that students are not only well-prepared for future academic or vocational pathways but also encouraged to develop confidence, creativity, and individuality. The school offers a supportive and inclusive environment, allowing students to flourish both artistically and academically.

Find out more about our audition process here

Audition Dates:

Find out more     Download our Prospectus     Book a Visit     Apply Now  

 


Hamlet - A Level Acting
Dance Classroom
Pippin - BTEC Musical
Acting Classroom
The Dance Show
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Sixth Form (ages 16-18)

The ArtsEd Sixth Form offers a flexible and enriching educational experience with various pathways that enable students to balance academic achievement with performance training. Students can choose from three BTEC qualifications—Acting, Dance, and Musical Theatre—and 11 A Levels. The BTEC courses offer in-depth, practical training designed for students looking to enter the performing arts industry, while the A Level option provides more traditional academic qualifications alongside performance opportunities. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their future aspirations, whether that’s pursuing higher education or entering the performance industry.

Find out more about our audition process here

Audition Dates:

Find out more     Download our Prospectus    Book a Visit     Apply Now  

 


Rehearsals
The Suicide - A Comedy
Rehearsals
Darknet
The Suicide - A Comedy
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CertHE in Acting (ages 18+)

The Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) Acting course is a one-year programme designed for those looking to develop foundational skills in acting and prepare for degree-level study or professional acting. The course focuses on building confidence and core skills in acting, voice, and movement, with practical projects and performances throughout the year. It serves as an intensive preparation for those looking to continue their training in the arts or step directly into the industry.

Audition Process:

The 1st round auditions for Full-time Foundation – Acting will take place online. You will need to film yourself performing two audition speeches at home and as per the instructions on the auditions page. You will then combine these two speeches into a single video, which you will upload for our audition panel to assess.

2nd round recalls will be in person at our Chiswick home and will involve you spending a day working with course tutors and getting a real sense of life at ArtsEd.

Recall Audition Dates:

Find out more   Auditions     Funding & Scholarships    Apply Now

 


Dance Classroom
Cabaret: Musical Theatre Foundation Showcase
Singing Classroom
Cabaret: Musical Theatre Foundation Showcase
Dance Classroom
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CertHE in Musical Theatre (ages 18+)

The Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) Musical Theatre course is also a one-year intensive programme, offering comprehensive training in singing, acting, and dance. Like its acting counterpart, this course provides a solid foundation for students aiming to continue their studies in performing arts or begin a career in musical theatre. Students work on key performance skills through workshops, classes, and public performances.

Audition Process:

The auditions for our Full-time Foundation in Musical Theatre will be in person and will take place at ArtsEd. You will spend your time working with course tutors and getting a real sense of life as an ArtsEd student. This is a single round process, with offers made on the basis of day that you spend with us. Once you have applied, we will send you full details of the format of the day as well as a full version of the audition requirements.

Audition Dates:

Find out more   Auditions     Funding & Scholarships     Apply Now

 


Showreels - Rye Lane
So Here We Are
Showreels - The One
Nell Gwynn
Showreels - Survival of the Thickest
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BA (Hons) in Acting (ages 18+)

ArtsEd’s BA (Hons) Acting course is a three-year degree known for its 50:50 balance between stage and screen acting. The programme emphasises developing a versatile actor through training in acting techniques (Stanislavsky, Meisner, and more), voice, movement, and combat. Students engage in text analysis, improvisation, and performance projects, which include contemporary and classical theatre, as well as screen acting. With professional development opportunities such as a West End showcase and TV showreel creation, graduates leave fully prepared for a career in theatre, film, and television.

Audition Process:

The 1st round auditions for BA Acting will take place online. You will need to film yourself performing two audition speeches at home and as per the instructions on our auditions page. You will then combine these two speeches into a single video, which you will upload for our audition panel to assess.

2nd round recalls will be in person at ArtsEd in Chiswick and will involve you spending a day working with course tutors and getting a real sense of life at drama school.

Recall Audition Dates:

Find out more    Auditions     Funding & Scholarships     Acting Open Event     Apply Now

 


Sweet Charity - Dango Company
RENT - Boheme Company
Rehearsals
Made in Dagenham - Trade Company
The Drowsy Chaperone - Gin Martini Company
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BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre (ages 18+)

This rigorous three-year BA (Hons) Musical Theatre course is highly regarded within the industry for producing versatile performers who are adept at acting, singing, and dancing. The curriculum covers a wide range of skills, from vocal training and dance techniques to acting and stagecraft, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of musical theatre. Students participate in numerous public performances and industry showcases, making this course ideal for those seeking a career on the stage or screen.

Audition Process:

All auditions for our BA Musical Theatre course will take place in person at our Chiswick home.  The 1st and 2nd rounds take place on the same day and will include a tour of the facilities and an opportunity to talk to staff and students.

Recalls are scheduled as necessary and will also take place at ArtsEd.

Once you have applied, we will send you full details of the format of the day as well as a full version of the audition requirements outlined below.

Audition Dates:

Find out more   Auditions     Funding & Scholarships     Apply Now

 


3 Winters
Rehearsals
The Glove Thief
Acting Classroom
3 Winters
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MA in Acting (ages 21+)

The MA in Acting is a highly competitive, one-year programme. This full-time, intensive course is designed to equip students with advanced acting techniques and the practical skills necessary for a successful career in stage, screen, and audio. The curriculum includes training in methods like Stanislavsky, Meisner, and Chekhov, alongside movement, voice, and professional employment skills. Students showcase their talents through public performances and an industry-facing showcase in London’s West End. This program is ideal for those seeking to elevate their craft and gain direct access to industry professionals.

Audition Process:

All first-round auditions will take place online. You will film yourself performing two audition speeches at home and as per the instructions on our auditions page.  You will then combine these two speeches into a single video, which you will upload for our audition panel to assess.

Recalls will be in person at our Chiswick home and will involve you spending a day working with course tutors and getting a real sense of life at ArtsEd.

Audition dates to be confirmed.

Find out more   Auditions     Funding & Scholarships     Apply Now

 

Not Ready for Full-Time Training? Explore Our Part-Time Foundation Courses

If you’re passionate about performing arts but unsure if full-time training is right for you, ArtsEd offers Part-Time Foundation Courses in both Acting and Musical Theatre. These courses are perfect for those who want to develop their skills while balancing other commitments, such as work or study. Designed to boost your confidence and prepare you for drama school auditions or a career in the industry, the part-time courses run over two intensive terms with classes held three evenings a week and additional full-day workshops on Sundays.

Both courses provide a strong foundation for future study, with many students progressing to full-time programmes at top drama schools. If you’re looking to gain confidence and test your potential, our part-time foundation courses offer the flexibility you need.

Find out more (Acting )     Find out more (Musical Theatre)     Auditions

 

Our courses are designed with a strong industry focus, offering unrivalled access to leading professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, and numerous opportunities to showcase your talents. Whether you’re taking your first steps in performance or honing your skills at the postgraduate level, ArtsEd has the right program for you.

Don’t miss out! Apply now and join us at ArtsEd to be part of a thriving community that nurtures talent and prepares you for success in the performing arts industry.

Excellent Results for ArtsEd A Level and BTEC Students

Posted on: August 15th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

Many congratulations to all our Year 13 students who have achieved an excellent set of results in this year’s A Levels and BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma qualifications.

At A Level, our A* – B rate up by 8% to 71%;  91% of our BTEC students achieved D*D*D* – DDD (the equivalent of A*A*A* – AAA at A level).  These are outstanding results, and among our students celebrating today were Amelie who achieved 3 A*s in her A levels, and Sienna and Josie who both achieved D*D*D* in the BTEC and an A* in their additional A level.

Headteacher, Peter Middleton, is delighted with these results:

‘I am absolutely thrilled for all our students and staff, who have worked so hard over these last two years. This is wonderful recognition of their endeavours. There are exceptional results, but it is equally important to highlight and congratulate those students who worked hard to achieve their grades across the full spectrum of results – a hard-won B grade, when predicted a C, is an equally significant achievement.  All our students, who applied, achieved a place at their university of first choice, conservatoire, or institution of further training.  This is a multi-talented year group, and many are now going on to leading institutions both in the UK and abroad, or into the industry.  Congratulations to them all – we wish them every success in their future careers.’


Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results,
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
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Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
School of Acting showreel Survival of the Thickest
School of Acting production So Here We Are
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
School of Acting Original Film Sock of Terror
Sixth Form Results, A-Level, BTEC, Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance
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The Director of Sixth Form, Mark Ferrington is very proud of their achievements:
‘Congratulations to all our students for their remarkable achievements, and thank you to their families for their ongoing support.  Our Sixth Form has once again demonstrated the exceptional dedication and hard work that has led to impressive outcomes across all areas of the ArtsEd Curriculum.  The A Level and BTEC results reflect not only the academic prowess of our students, but also showcase their practical knowledge and skills.  The resilience they have shown throughout their studies has been amazing and we look forward to seeing them thrive in their future endeavours.’

The Head of BTEC, Lizzie Bellamy, congratulated the BTEC students:

‘They should all be proud of what they have achieved, individually and collectively, and the creatives they have grown into. I hope they can all look back on their journeys at ArtsEd with pride, knowing that they can overcome challenges with resilience and confidence.  They are wonderfully motivated, open, and keen to share their creative voice.  We look forward to hearing of their future successes.’

At the heart of supporting these successes is the ‘ArtsEd Curriculum’ – where vocational training of the highest quality is rooted and integrated within the academic programme.  This was recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in the most recent inspection, when they awarded the School the highest accolade – an area of significant strength:

‘The standards that pupils achieve in performing arts, in line with the school’s expressed aims, are a significant strength of the school.’
Independent Schools Inspectorate Inspection Report 2024

We’re incredibly proud of the achievements of our Year 13 students, and if you’re inspired by their success, why not explore the opportunities that ArtsEd has to offer? Join us for one of our upcoming open evenings to discover how our unique blend of academic excellence and world-class performing arts training can help you reach your full potential. Sign up today and take the first step towards your future at ArtsEd!

Find out more

ArtsEd Alumni Shine in West End Musical “Your Lie in April”

Posted on: July 19th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

ArtsEd is proud to announce the remarkable achievements of three of our talented students/graduates who have taken to the stage in the West End musical “Your Lie in April” at The Harold Pinter Theatre. The show, which had its press night on Friday, 5th July, features Ria Tanaka (Day School, Sixth Form and BA Hons Musical Theatre), Imogen Law Hing Choy (Sixth Form), and Mia Kobayashi (BA Hons Musical Theatre), all of whom have shown exceptional dedication and talent in their performances.

“We are incredibly proud of Mia, Ria, and Imogen for securing their roles in ‘Your Lie in April.’ Their achievements highlight the dedication and talent nurtured through our courses. Watching our graduates succeed on such a prestigious stage reaffirms the excellence of our training at ArtsEd and the commitment of our students.”
Jonathan O’Boyle, Director of the School of Musical Theatre

Our Stars

Mia Kobayashi, a BA (Hons) Musical Theatre graduate from the class of 2024, has landed the pivotal role of Kaori Miyazono. Mia’s transition from ArtsEd to the West End was nothing short of meteoric. She shared her incredible journey on ITV News, stating, “I finished my last lesson at ArtsEd on the Friday, and then I started rehearsals the next Monday.” Mia’s dedication and swift rise to prominence serve as an inspiration to all aspiring performers. You can watch the ITV News extract below

Credit: ITV News London: Tuesday 9th July

 

Ria Tanaka, a BA (Hons) Musical Theatre graduate from the class of 2022, who previously attended our Day School & Sixth Form, brings her multifaceted talent to the ensemble. Ria’s consistent hard work and perseverance have paved the way for her success in one of London’s most prestigious theatres.

Production photo of 'Your Lie in April' featuring two ArtsEd alumni Ria Tanaka (far left) and Imogen Law Hing Choy (2nd from left)
Ria Tanaka (far left) and Imogen Law Hing Choy (2nd from left) in “Your Lie in April”
Photographer: Craig Sugden

 

Imogen Law Hing Choy, who graduated from our Sixth Form BTEC Musical Theatre course in 2024, graces the stage as part of the ensemble. Her classmates were excited to be invited to attend an exclusive preview of the show, capturing heartfelt moments and proud celebrations as Imogen left the stage door. This video highlights the support and camaraderie within the ArtsEd community.

The DSSF are all incredibly proud of alumni Imogen and Ria and their performances in Your Lie In April. They are both exceptional talents and demonstrated incredible dedication to their craft during their training with us. We look forward to seeing where their journey takes them next.
Giovanna Ryan, Head of Musical Theatre, Day School & Sixth Form

Imogen Law Hing Choy leaving the stage door at a preview of "Your Lie in April", greeted by fellow BTEC Musical Theatre student peers

 

About “Your Lie in April”

“Your Lie in April” is a groundbreaking musical that marks a significant milestone in theatre history as the first all-Eastern Asian musical developed from an original Japanese manga. The story, which has captivated audiences worldwide, follows the journey of a young piano prodigy who, after losing his ability to hear the sound of the piano following his mother’s death, finds new inspiration and love through a spirited violinist. This poignant and beautifully composed musical has seamlessly transitioned from its manga roots to the West End stage, offering a unique and culturally rich experience that resonates with diverse audiences. The show’s successful press night is a testament to the hard work and talent of the cast and crew, including our very own ArtsEd alumni.

"Your Lie in April" Mia Kobayashi
Imogen Law Hing Choy "Your Lie in April" (front centre)
Imogen Law Hing Choy "Your Lie in April" (front centre)
Mia Kobayashi
Imogen Law Hing Choy
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Photographer: Craig Sugden

A Testament to ArtsEd’s Training at All Levels

The success of Mia, Ria, and Imogen is a testament to the high-quality education and training provided at ArtsEd. We are immensely proud of their achievements and the bright futures that lie ahead for them. Their stories reflect their own hardwork and dedication combined with the world class training that our school provides students through our comprehensive Day School, Sixth Form, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

 

Find Out More About Where Imogen and Ria’s Journey Began

Our Day School & Sixth Form open evenings are now open for bookings. Experience life at ArtsEd, tour our West London home, and get all of your questions answered by our esteemed faculty. 

Find out more

Senam Akpokavi Wins Prestigious Spotlight Prize for Screen Acting

Posted on: July 18th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

Last night drama and acting students from around the UK gathered for the annual Spotlight Prize award. ArtsEd is delighted to announce that Senam Akpokavi, a graduate of our BA Hons in Acting class of 2024, won the prestigious 2024 Spotlight Prize for Best Actor in Screen.

This remarkable achievement highlights Senam’s exceptional talent and dedication. This was a highly contested award with graduates from over 70 universities and drama schools competing for the prize.

Winners of The Spotlight Prize 2024, Alyssa Thabisile Sibanda (left) and Senam Akpokavi (right)
Finalists of The Spotlight Prize 2024
Spotlight Prize 2024 Winners

Winners of The Spotlight Prize 2024, Alyssa Thabisile Sibanda (left) of Bristol Old Vic for Best Actor in Stage and Senam Akpokavi (right) for Best Actor in Screen.
Photo credit: Spotlight

Spotlight Prize 2024 Finalists

Spotlight Prize Finalists 2024, 22 graduates from drama schools and universities from around the UK
Photo credit: Spotlight

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The Spotlight Prize, held annually since the 1950s, is one of the most prestigious awards for emerging actors in the UK. The competition provides a platform for graduating students to showcase their skills before an audience of industry professionals, including casting directors, agents, and renowned actors. Winners receive a £2000 prize and the opportunity to join a distinguished list of past recipients who have made significant strides in the industry.

Find out more about The Spotlight Prize here

Senam’s victory follows in the footsteps of notable Spotlight Prize alumni such as Jodie Whittaker, known for her role in “Doctor Who”; Ben Whishaw, acclaimed for “Skyfall” and “Paddington”; and Dame Judi Dench, an iconic figure in film and theatre. This year’s judges for the Screen category included top casting directors like Nicky Bligh, Olivia Brittain, and Denise Chamian, who praised the high calibre of performances from all finalists.

“We are extremely proud of Senam Akpokavi winning the Spotlight Screen Prize. His performances on screen and stage were outstanding last night. He has been a wonderful student to teach, and we wish him all the very best for the future”
Kim Vithana, Director of the School of Acting

Senam Akpokavi (left) and Kim Vithana (right) at the Spotlight Prize 2024
Senam Akpokavi (left) and the School of Acting Director, Kim Vithana (right) at the Spotlight Prize 2024. Photo credit: Kim Vithana

Throughout his final year at ArtsEd, Senam showcased his versatility and range in various productions and screen performances, impressing audiences with each of his performances. His dedication and hard work culminated in a stellar screen performance that earned him this distinguished accolade. Senam’s credits for his final year performances include:

 

You can watch Senam’s showreel Survival of the Thickest here and view productions shots of Senam’s performances below.

 

Senam Akpokavi (left) and Lois Churcher (right) in the ArtsEd School of Acting Production So Here We Are
Senam Akpokavi (left) and Lois Churcher (right) in the ArtsEd School of Acting Production So Here We Are
Senam Akpokavi (left) and Lois Churcher (right) in the ArtsEd School of Acting Production So Here We Are
Senam Akpokavi (left) and Lois Churcher (right) in the ArtsEd School of Acting Production So Here We Are
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd showreel Survival of the Thickest
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd showreel Survival of the Thickest
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd showreel Survival of the Thickest
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd showreel Survival of the Thickest
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd School of Acting production The Voysey Inheritance
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd School of Acting production The Voysey Inheritance
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd School of Acting production The Voysey Inheritance
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd School of Acting production The Voysey Inheritance
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd Original Film Sock of Terror
SenamJordan Daley as Sasha (left) and Senam Akpokavi as Pete (right) in ArtsEd School of Acting Original Film Sock of Terror Akpokavi in ArtsEd Original Film Sock of Terror
SenamJordan Daley as Sasha (left) and Senam Akpokavi as Pete (right) in ArtsEd School of Acting Original Film Sock of Terror Akpokavi in ArtsEd Original Film Sock of Terror
So Here We Are

Senam Akpokavi (left) and Brock Warren (right) in So Here We Are. Photographer: Robin Savage

So Here We Are

Senam Akpokavi (left) and Lois Churcher (right) in So Here We Are. Photographer: Robin Savage

Survival of the Thickest

Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd showreel Survival of the Thickest

Survival of the Thickest

Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd showreel Survival of the Thickest

The Voysey Inheritance

Senam Akpokavi as Mr Voysey in The Voysey Inheritance. Photographer: Robin Savage

The Voysey Inheritance

Olivia Rembges as Mrs Voysey (left) and Senam Akpokavi as Mr Voysey (right) in The Voysey Inheritance. Photographer: Robin Savage

Sock of Terror

Senam Akpokavi as Pete in ArtsEd Original Film Sock of Terror

Sock of Terror

Jordan Daley (left) as Sasha and Senam Akpokavi (right) as Pete in ArtsEd Original Film Sock of Terror

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Senam Akpokavi (left) and Lois Churcher (right) in the ArtsEd School of Acting Production So Here We Are
School of Acting production So Here We Are
School of Acting showreel Survival of the Thickest
School of Acting showreel Survival of the Thickest
School of Acting showreel Survival of the Thickest
School of Acting showreel Survival of the Thickest
School of Acting Original Film Sock of Terror
School of Acting Original Film Sock of Terror
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View Senam’s Profile

The Spotlight Prize has a history of propelling its winners to successful careers in the arts. Previous winners have starred in major TV shows and films, performed on renowned stages such as The Globe and the National Theatre, and joined prestigious companies like the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company.

Senam’s achievement is a testament to the quality of training and support provided by ArtsEd’s BA Acting programme and his dedication and hardwork. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to him and eagerly anticipate his future successes in the performing arts industry.

Find Out More About Our School of Acting

Discover the wide range of acting programmes offered at ArtsEd’s School of Acting. Whether you’re looking to start your journey with our Part-Time Foundation in Acting, delve deeper with the Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) in Acting, pursue a comprehensive education with the BA (Hons) in Acting, or advance your skills with the MA in Acting, we have the perfect course to shape your future career on stage and screen.

Find out more

Covering Note to Public Statement by the Chair of the Trustees

Posted on: July 12th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

Covering Note to Public Statement by the Chair of the Trustees

 

A number of allegations were raised last year about bullying and favouritism at ArtsEd.  Given the nature of the allegations and the number of complaints, as well as the public attention, the Board decided that an independent investigation was necessary. In order to ensure a fair, thorough and impartial investigation, the Board appointed an experienced barrister: Ms Ghazaleh Rezaie of 12 Kings Bench Walk Chambers.

The purpose of the investigation was to enable the Board to understand the basis of the allegations and the nature and extent of any alleged misconduct at ArtsEd.  The Terms of Reference for Ms Rezaie’s investigation were published on the ArtsEd website.  Ms Rezaie completed her report and sent it to the Board on the evening of 28th June 2024.

The Board of Trustees would like to thank all of the participants who came forward to give evidence to Ms Rezaie. We acknowledge that this has been a challenging, and at times an emotional, process for those involved. As can be seen in the Public Statement, the Principal was not able to participate fully in the investigation for health reasons. The Board extended the investigation on two occasions but then asked Ms Rezaie to produce a report by 28 June 2024 on the basis of her conclusions to that date.

 As anticipated in the Terms of Reference, the full report contains confidential information about individuals who were interviewed. Therefore, the full report will not be published.  However, the Terms of Reference requested that Ms Rezaie draft a Public Statement – being a summary of the conclusions from her Report capable of being published without contravening data protection law.  That Public Statement has now been published on the ArtsEd website.

One of Ms Rezaie’s main findings was that the professional relationship between the Principal and current employees has been damaged beyond repair.  The Principal has considered this finding and decided to step down from her role as Principal and as a Trustee in the interests of her health.

The Board is still considering Ms Rezaie’s final full report. The Public Statement makes it clear that not all allegations have been substantiated but a number of allegations were, in Ms Rezaie’s opinion, suitable for referral to a disciplinary process for further examination.    We take these allegations very seriously. The Board is assessing the lessons which must be learned and changes which must be made. The latter will be carried out in consultation with the senior leadership at ArtsEd, which will include input into the next steps towards the recruitment of a new Principal.

At ArtsEd we are committed to a culture of inclusivity and transparency. The Board of Trustees will ensure that robust procedures and processes that create a safe environment for all of ArtsEd’s students and staff are embedded throughout the whole institution.

 

Farida Mannan

Acting Chair of the ArtsEd Board of Trustees

 

ArtsEd Independent Investigation – Public Statement: https://artsed.co.uk/news/artsed-independent-investigation-public-statement

ArtsEd Independent Investigation – Public Statement

Posted on: July 12th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

ArtsEd Independent Investigation – Public Statement

Ghazaleh Rezaie

Profile: Ghazaleh Rezaie | 12 King’s Bench Walk (12kbw.co.uk)

Introduction

 

1. ArtsEd is a charity overseen by a Board of Trustees. ArtsEd comprises a Day School and Sixth Form for 11–18 yearolds and a Higher Education arm which is split into the School of Musical Theatre and the School of Acting.

2. Following the publication of articles in Deadline in November 2023 making allegations of bullying and favouritism within ArtsEd, I was instructed by ArtsEd to carry out an independent investigation into the allegations.  

3. The purpose of the investigation, as set out in my Terms of Reference, was to enable the Board of Trustees to understand the basis of the allegations and the nature and extent of any alleged misconduct by the Principal and/or others during their employment at ArtsEd.  The reference to “or others” is important: my task was expressly not confined to investigating only allegations against the Principal.

4. Prior to my instruction to conduct this investigation, I had never had any dealings with anyone associated with ArtsEd including employees or Trustees. I had never received instructions to act for or against ArtsEd as a Barrister. I am, therefore, entirely independent of the Board of Trustees and of ArtsEd.

5. Throughout the course of my investigation, I received the full cooperation of the Board of Trustees through the Working Group (the composition of which changed as became appropriate) established under my Terms of Reference to act as a conduit between me and the Board.  I take this opportunity to thank the various members of the Working Group for their work.

6. My Report was prepared by me with no interference from anyone at ArtsEd. The findings I made and conclusions I reached are mine and mine alone.

7. As anticipated in my Terms of Reference, my Report contains confidential information about those raising issues and/or making allegations and those responding.  Given data privacy considerations and general confidentiality requirements, the full Report is for the Board of Trustees only and will not be published.  

8. However, given that the investigation was a response to criticisms made in the public domain, my Terms of Reference required a summary of my conclusions from the investigation capable of being published as a public statement.  This document is that public statement.

Overview of the investigation

 

9. I was formally instructed by ArtsEd on 11 December 2023.  My work began after Terms of Reference had been finalised and published on the ArtsEd website on 10 January 2024.

10. A designated investigation email address was established and those with information were encouraged to come forward before 22 January 2024. I received emails making allegations against the Principal as well as emails in support of her. Following that date, I formulated and particularised the allegations I would investigate and identified those whom I considered necessary to interview.

11. The first interview with a witness who had provided information via email took place on 31 January 2024. Interviews continued throughout the course of February, March and April.  In total I interviewed 30 witnesses, some more than once.

12. In some instances, despite insistence from the individual that they had information relevant to the investigation, their evidence during the interview revealed nothing of relevance to the investigation and was ultimately used as an opportunity to ventilate grievances against ArtsEd.

13. By April 2024 I was ready to interview the Principal to obtain her response to allegations made about her.  As is public knowledge, the Principal has been on sick leave since before my investigation began.  She remains on sick leave.  I understand that the sick leave has been supported by appropriate medical certificates.  I have not seen nor considered it appropriate for me to see those medical certificates.  

14. I am not a medical practitioner and unable to make any assessment of the state of the Principal’s health.  I have worked on the basis that the health issues and their effect on the Principal are genuine and as described to me by or on behalf of the Principal.  That said, I did not form the impression that the Principal’s state of health prevented her from participating in the investigation. The Principal participated in the investigation process in a meaningful way at the times that she was able to participate.  She articulated herself well, was able to recount events with clarity and specificity and was able to seek out evidence in support of her written and oral representations. That is not to say that she was unaffected by the matters she recalled.

15. I was able to interview the Principal on a number of occasions.  On one occasion it was clear to me that she was not in a fit state to participate in the interview. She appeared visibly unwell and unable even to speak without causing concern.  Overall, progress was slow and it is important to note that a significant number of the allegations were not directly responded to by the Principal in the time available.  Given the Principal’s health, even with the extensions, it was not possible to obtain the Principal’s full response to all of the allegations ahead of my final deadline of 28 June 2024.  

16. I am grateful to the Trustees for their agreement to extend the deadline for completion of this Report on two occasions given the difficulties set out above.  I believe that was a fair and appropriate response notwithstanding the external pressure to complete the investigation.  Although the extensions did not allow me to complete the investigation, they did at least provide sufficient time for me to hear from the Principal (albeit in a limited way) and to make the recommendations I have now been able to make and were worthwhile in that respect.  

17. My Report and the evidence I had considered was delivered to the Trustees on 28 June 2024.  

Summary of findings

 

18. Based on my interactions with the Principal and the wider staff, notwithstanding those who gave evidence in support of the Principal’s leadership, it is clear to me that the professional relationship between the Principal and current employees has been damaged beyond repair. This is notwithstanding the mentoring and coaching which the Principal has received from the Board and externally.  ArtsEd needs to consider whether, in those circumstances, there are sufficient grounds to maintain a sustainable working relationship between the Principal and a significant number of employees.  

19. My Terms of Reference required me to determine:

(a) whether there is enough evidence to support, on the balance of probabilities, any allegation(s) made; and

(b) if any allegations are supported by evidence against, in particular, any ArtsEd employee:

(i) whether I would then recommend that a disciplinary process be conducted; and

(ii) whether that means that areas of ArtsEd’s operational or reporting practices need to be improved.

20. Before saying anything further I make two important caveats:

(a) first, any recommendation that a disciplinary process be conducted or disciplinary action taken should not be taken as a recommendation that any disciplinary sanction be given.  Fairness demands that any disciplinary panel must be allowed to examine any evidence gathered, make its own enquiries and then make its own independent decision on whether or not to impose a disciplinary sanction.  That is all the more important in a situation where the allegations have been played out publicly, often with competing agendas and without the benefit of a further detailed examination of allegation and response, with time for reflection and consideration; and

(b) secondly, as described above, I was not able to obtain the Principal’s response to all of the allegations within the time available due to the Principal’s health.  I have had to reach a number of conclusions therefore without the benefit of having had any or any direct response from the Principal.

21. Having given those important caveats, I have recommended to the Board that a disciplinary process be conducted in respect of the Principal concerning two areas:

(a) I concluded that the Principal did call students “snakes” as later revealed in an audio recording which had been made public; and by denying this the Principal allowed ArtsEd, in turn, to make a public statement forcefully denying the allegation, bringing ArtsEd into disrepute and damaging trust and confidence; and

(b) not all allegations against the Principal have been substantiated.  I found around half the allegations to be “not well-founded”.  I did, however, find the other half gave rise to the need to further exploration through a disciplinary process.  Whilst it is unlikely that any single example of these allegations would justify disciplinary action in isolation, I found that the cumulative effect created an unhealthy environment and I recommended that should be examined further in a disciplinary process.

22. Although my Terms of Reference referred to “bullying and favouritism,” in fact, I found no evidence of favouritism that I could confidently recommend be treated as a standalone allegation to be the subject of a disciplinary process and invited ArtsEd to treat such allegation with caution.

23. I do not believe that I can or should say anything publicly about the individual allegations.  The investigation was confidential and there are obvious privacy considerations regarding the information gathered and conclusions reached.  Going further would potentially damage trust and militate against staff and others coming forward in the future with concerns, which would be entirely the opposite response to this investigation from the one the Board desires.

Recommendations

 

24. My recommendation regarding a disciplinary process is dealt with above.

25. Most of the allegations made during my investigation relate to the way in which the Principal has personally interacted with her colleagues or the students. This makes it difficult or unwise to make recommendations where they might lack any general applicability. There may, however, be ways in which ArtsEd’s internal processes could be strengthened to prevent any similar problems from arising in the future and/or if they do arise, to be raised sooner and more transparently to the Trustees without blurring the distinction between oversight and operational matters.

26. The Terms of Reference asked for my opinion on the question of the Principal holding the role of Trustee. I am unable to offer an opinion especially not from a regulatory perspective as that falls outside of my expertise. I would add, however, from a staff confidence perspective, the general consensus was that from their perspective it gave the appearance of a conflict of interest with a general feeling that there was no recourse to the Board of Trustees when a complaint was about the Principal who was a Trustee.  The Trustees may therefore wish to take this back to the solicitors who made the original recommendation that the ArtsEd Principal should also be a Trustee, no doubt for good reasons, as part of their independent governance review.

 


Covering Note to Public Statement by the Chair of Trustees: https://artsed.co.uk/news/covering-note-to-public-statement-by-the-chair-of-the-trustees

Update June 2024: ArtsEd Investigation Terms of Reference

Posted on: July 12th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

Covering Note to Public Statement by the Chair of Trustees: https://artsed.co.uk/news/covering-note-to-public-statement-by-the-chair-of-the-trustees

ArtsEd Independent Investigation – Public Statement: https://artsed.co.uk/news/artsed-independent-investigation-public-statement

 


28.06.2024

ArtsEd have been informed by Ms Rezaie that there has been a slight delay and we apologise that we are not in a position to publish the public statement today as previously intended.

We will endeavour to publish a further update next week. All previous updates are below, and we are committed to full transparency with this process. We will share a public statement once the report has been received.

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01.05.24

We shared an update yesterday that the external review has been extended to June 28, 2024.

This independent review, completed by Ms. Rezaie, requires additional time to ensure that all processes are thoroughly fair and duly followed.

For reference, our previous update can be found in the Terms of Reference, published on January 10, 2024, which anticipated an earlier conclusion by March 29, 2024, later adjusted to late April. All previous updates have been published below.

We appreciate your understanding as we look to uphold the highest standards of accountability and transparency.


30.04.24

ArtsEd was due to publish an update today on the progress of the investigation. I would like to inform you that the date for the publication of the Public Statement, with a summary of the conclusions for the Rezaie investigation, has been extended to 28th June 2024.

Farida Mannan
Acting Chair of the Board of Trustees

 


26.03.2024

We previously shared in the Terms of Reference, published on January 10, 2024, that the Board of Trustees anticipated that it would release recommendations and a public statement by March 29, 2024.  Ms. Rezaie has updated the Board and advised that the publication date will be towards the end of April 2024.  Your understanding and patience are greatly appreciated.

 


 

10.01.2024

The Board of Trustees recently announced the appointment of Ghazaleh Rezaie, a barrister from 12 Kings Bench Walk Chambers, to independently investigate allegations of misconduct.  We believe that all stakeholders should be able to access the Terms of Reference for the investigation and that is why it is being published in full below.

A deadline of 22 January 2024 has been set for people to be able to contact the investigation enquiries@independent-investigation.com.  We are committed to establishing a clear account of the events and identify lessons to be learned based on the findings.  We would encourage anybody, including all staff, students, parents and alumni to use this email address to contact Ms Rezaie.

Terms of Reference