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Stiles & Drewe Attend Year 12 Musical Theatre Assessments

Posted on: April 9th, 2025 by Marketing User

On Thursday 3 April, we were thrilled to welcome the legendary British musical theatre writing duo George Stiles and Anthony Drewe to ArtsEd. As part of our Year 12 Musical Theatre assessments, students have spent the term immersing themselves in the British musical theatre canon — with a particular focus on the works of Stiles & Drewe. To have George and Anthony join us in the audience for these performances was not only an incredible honour, but also a hugely inspiring moment for our students and staff alike.

Stiles and Drewe are among the most celebrated musical theatre composers and lyricists in the UK today. Their exceptional partnership has resulted in a catalogue of critically acclaimed and widely beloved productions, including Betty Blue Eyes, Soho Cinders, HONK!, Just So, Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure, Tutankhamun, and their contributions to the world-famous Cameron Mackintosh/Disney production of Mary Poppins, for which they wrote new songs, vocal arrangements, and dance music. HONK! alone has become a global phenomenon, seen by over six million people in more than 8,000 productions across 20+ languages — and counting.

“We had a great afternoon watching not only a selection of our songs, but also those of many recent British musical theatre writers, performed by Year 12 at ArtsEd. The standard of the performers was amazing – they all seemed so self-assured and confident in their delivery, as well as maintaining their own individuality. It was hard to believe that they were all so young. We also found the sense of ‘family’, support and mutual admiration amongst the students both touching and refreshing. As we said to the performers, we look forward to meeting them again out in the big wide world of theatre.”
George Stiles and Anthony Drewe

The students have been studying material from the British Musical Theatre canon with a focus on their work for the past term and it was a very special experience to have them in the audience for the culmination of this project. Their visit was an extraordinary opportunity for our students, who not only had the chance to perform the writers’ work directly in front of them, but also benefited from their generous feedback and reflections. George and Anthony took the time to speak with students after the show, offering valuable insights and behind-the-scenes stories drawn from over 40 years of experience in the industry. Their warmth, encouragement and wisdom made a lasting impact, and served as a powerful reminder of the creativity and community that lies at the heart of musical theatre.

It was a joyful and celebratory end to an enriching term of study, and one that our Year 12 students will definitely carry with them as they continue their training and begin to carve their own paths in the industry.

“We were extremely grateful that George and Anthony made the time to come to watch our Musical Theatre students perform some of their work. They were incredibly generous with their time, feedback, stories and advice to our students, and I know that they all benefitted hugely from this experience. It was a very special afternoon celebrating our students’ achievements and the wonderful work of British Musical Theatre composers from the past 30 years.”
Giovanna Ryan, Head of Musical Theatre at Day School & Sixth Form, ArtsEd

Thank you, George and Anthony, for sharing your time, your expertise, and your love for musical theatre with us. We hope to welcome you back to ArtsEd again very soon.

In Conversation With… Alumni

Posted on: April 4th, 2025 by Marketing User

We were delighted to welcome ArtsEd graduates Emily Lane (Sixth Form 2017, BA Musical Theatre 2020), Samuel Creasey (BA Acting 2020), and Kelvin Ade (MA Acting 2021) back to the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Theatre on Thursday, 27 March, at 7pm, for an inspiring evening discussing their journeys since graduating.

Hosted by Maame Atuah, Head of Short Courses & Outreach, the conversation explored each panellist’s experiences at ArtsEd—from their first audition to their final performance—and their exciting careers over the past few years.

Emily Lane reflected on her experiences performing alongside Imelda Staunton in Hello Dolly!, discussing valuable lessons she carried forward from ArtsEd into her role as Anna in Frozen, and emphasised the importance of continuous training and growth after graduation. Kelvin Ade shared fascinating insights into his current theatre debut in Three Sisters at Shakespeare’s Globe, highlighting the differences between preparing for stage roles and his on-screen experiences, such as in SAS Rogue Heroes and The Regime. Samuel Creasey provided an engaging perspective on his rehearsal process for A Winter’s Tale at Shakespeare’s Globe, where he portrayed the Young Shepherd in his native Welsh accent, and how this role reignited his passion for magic during his involvement in Derren Brown’s Unbelievable.

“It was incredibly useful for the students to get guidance from successful alumni on how they were navigating the industry and getting high quality work. The panellists were very generous with their insights, especially about the casting process, the importance of identifying with the character, and practical ways to do this.”
Jake Harders, Head of Acting at ArtsEd

The evening concluded with an interactive Q&A session, providing current students the chance to seek direct advice from the panel. The alumni generously shared valuable insights and practical wisdom, reinforcing ArtsEd’s commitment to nurturing and investing in our students’ futures.

Events like this underline ArtsEd’s dedication to celebrating and strengthening connections within our community. They inspire current students through the remarkable achievements of our alumni, fostering ongoing relationships and celebrating our graduates’ outstanding journeys in the performing arts industry.

“The In Conversation With event at ArtsEd was a truly inspiring occasion to hear wise, witty and practical advice from successful alumni. It was such a pleasure to welcome them back to the school, listen to their achievements and to learn about their strategies for striving and thriving in the industry. The current students got so much out of it and were thrilled to meet them afterwards and continue the conversation.”
George Richmond-Scott, MA Acting Course Leader at ArtsEd

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended this insightful evening—the first in our exciting new In Conversation With… Alumni series. Your continued support means so much, and we look forward to welcoming you to our next event very soon.”
Susie Butt, Head of Development at ArtsEd

ArtsEd Receives Glowing Review from The Good Schools Guide

Posted on: February 7th, 2025 by Marketing User

We are absolutely delighted to share the fantastic review we have received from The Good Schools Guide. This latest assessment highlights both our exceptional performing arts training and the strong academic foundation that underpins everything we do. As the UK’s most trusted school guide for over 35 years, The Good Schools Guide provides candid and impartial reviews, and it is truly wonderful to see our unique approach to education so warmly recognised.

Published in January 2025, The Good Schools Guide described ArtsEd Day School and Sixth Form as:

A small school that provides exceptional opportunities for those aiming for a career in the performing arts, while providing a solid academic base for both prospective professionals and those who may choose a different path.

Our school is celebrated for its “positive, buzzing, supportive” environment, where students flourish under the guidance of dedicated, experienced educators who inspire and challenge them every day.

Interim Headteacher Peter Middleton shared his enthusiasm about the review:

We are delighted to have received such a glowing review from The Good Schools Guide. By every measure, we are an outstanding School, however, it is reassuring to receive such a positive review from the UK’s number one school guide. The review bears testament to our inspirational environment, inclusive ethos, and the dedication of our staff to deliver a thriving, supportive and nurturing School. We offer our sincere thanks to all the students, staff, and parents who assisted with this and for sharing their wonderful insights and experiences of life at ArtsEd.

One of the standout highlights of the review is the exceptional quality of teaching we provide. Students describe our performing arts training as “amazing,” with parents echoing that “the teaching is the best they’ve ever had.” Our staff bring a wealth of industry experience into the classroom, ensuring that our students receive world-class training in dance, drama, and musical theatre.

This latest endorsement from The Good Schools Guide reaffirms that ArtsEd is an exceptional place to learn and grow. Our ability to combine world-class performing arts training with a strong academic foundation makes us truly unique. We remain deeply committed to equipping our students with the skills, confidence, and resilience to succeed, wherever their journey may take them.

 

Read Full Review

ArtsEd Winter Break Closure

Posted on: December 18th, 2024 by Marketing User

As we start the winter break, we want to inform our valued Arts Ed community about the temporary closure of our building.

From Wednesday 18 December 2024, to Monday 6 January 2025, the ArtsEd building will be closed for winter break. During this period, please note that no staff will be working, and the building will be inaccessible to students, parents and the general public.

Here are the important details regarding the winter break closure:

1. Closure Dates:

2. Limited Access:

3. Online Resources:

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this seasonal pause. The closure is an opportunity for everyone to take a well-deserved break and recharge for the year ahead.

We look forward to welcoming you back to ArtsEd when we reopen on 6 January 2025, refreshed and ready to embrace the new year.

We wish you a joyful and restful winter break and a happy New Year when it comes!

Independent Schools Association National Awards Winner 2024

Posted on: November 29th, 2024 by Marketing User

We are delighted to announce that ArtsEd has been recognised with the Excellence in Performing Arts Award at the Independent Schools Association (ISA) National Awards 2024!  This prestigious accolade celebrates ArtsEd’s outstanding innovation, achievement, and dedication in performing arts. 

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This award was presented to Headteacher, Peter Middleton, during the ISA’s Autumn Study Conference on 14-15 November 2024, by actor David Semark, ISA National Chair Natasha Dangerfield, and ISA CEO Rudi Eliott Lockhart.  The judges outlined the reasons for their decision: 

“The breadth and extent of performing arts provision across the ISA schools that entered was staggering. The quality level was high across all submissions, but the standout entry was ArtsEd for its unique curriculum. Recognised by ISI for inspirational teaching and outstanding results, it nurtures students’ individual talents while fostering inclusivity. With numerous productions, high exam success rates, and a track record of preparing students for top conservatoires or universities, ArtsEd exemplifies excellence in performing arts education.”

This is the first time that ArtsEd has won this national accolade, and we are thrilled and honoured by this.

“This is a wonderful achievement and follows on from a fantastic ISI inspection report and extremely impressive external examination results.  This is a true testament to all those working within the Day School and Sixth Form and our students.  It is a wonderful validation and acknowledgement of the professionalism, vision and hard work of the performing arts and vocational departments.  This award also reflects the holistic education enshrined within the unique ‘ArtsEd Curriculum’ and our outstanding pastoral care.”
Peter Middleton, Headteacher, Day School & Sixth Form

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As an international leader in Performing Arts education for Years 7-13, ArtsEd offers a unique programme that combines a broad, balanced academic education with exceptional vocational training in the performing arts. Our students are inspired to reach their full potential, with unparalleled performance opportunities enhancing teamwork and leadership skills.  Earlier this year, the Independent Schools Inspectorate recognised the exceptional vocational training in the performing arts by awarding us their highest accolade in March 2024.

“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, 2024

“It is wonderful that the work of the Performing Arts Department has been recognised by the ISA. The talented and dedicated teaching team work incredibly hard to create inspiring and challenging programmes of study that nurture the pupils and sixth formers, preparing them for the Performing Arts industry and giving them the confidence to engage with the world beyond ArtsEd. In turn our young people rise to the challenge and the result is exciting creativity showcased in classes, assessments and our extensive performance programme.”
Natalie Bareham, Director of Performing Arts, Day School & Sixth Form

At ArtsEd, our commitment to excellence extends far beyond the performing arts.  It is an integral part of the ‘ArtsEd Curriculum’ – where vocational training is integrated within a strong academic programme.  This sets us apart from other specialist schools is achieved through the excellence of teaching and learning.  This is set within an environment where pastoral care is at its heart, and which is inclusive, nurturing and enables all our students to thrive.  The individual is right at the heart of our school; as the ISI Inspectors remarked – our students can be their natural selves. 

This year, the outstanding results of our students enabled them to move on to leading drama, dance and musical theatre conservatoires in the UK and abroad; others have gone to film schools, university or straight into the performing arts industry.  

If you are looking for an award-winning school that combines exceptional academic and performing arts education, we’d love to welcome you to ArtsEd.

Day School and Sixth Form applications are now open — join us, and be part of something extraordinary!

Find out more       Download our Prospectus       Book a Visit       Apply Now

A Celebration of Talent at Boys Day and Dance Day 2024

Posted on: November 20th, 2024 by Marketing User

This past month, ArtsEd’s Day School and Sixth Form hosted our highly anticipated Boys Day and Dance Day events. Both days were a great success, brimming with talent, enthusiasm, and the unmistakable buzz of future stars taking their first steps into the world of performing arts.

Boys Day

 

Boys Day provided a unique opportunity for young male identifying individuals passionate about acting, dance, musical theatre, and the arts to experience a day of of workshops and masterclasses. Led by our expert tutors, participants dived into an exciting schedule of activities designed to challenge, inspire, and showcase their talent.

 

“Thank you to all the students who participated in Boys Day! We were truly impressed by the remarkable talent, enthusiasm, and commitment shown by so many participants. It was a wonderful opportunity for boys from across the UK and around the world to come together and engage in classes with one another. We eagerly anticipate our final round of auditions next February where we will see you again!”

Mark Ferrington, Head of Sixth Form, Day School and Sixth Form

 

The day was a celebration of creativity, hard work, and collaboration, embodying the ArtsEd ethos. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us—we can’t wait to see you again at our February auditions!

Dance Day

 

Dance Day was a celebration of movement, as over 60 aspiring dancers joined us for a day packed with dynamic classes. It was a thrilling opportunity for participants to refine their skills, challenge themselves, and connect with like-minded peers, all whilst getting a taster of the ArtsEd experience. The level of talent on display was truly exceptional, and our teaching staff couldn’t have been more impressed.

 

“Another fantastic year at ArtsEd’s Dance Day! We were really impressed by the incredible talent and passion we witnessed from so many dancers that we were meeting for the first time. To every dancer who joined us: your energy and commitment made a lasting impression on all our teachers, it was a privilege to watch you share your artistry and challenge yourselves with new things. Thank you for trusting us with your time and talent, and we look forward to seeing you at our February auditions!”

Tara Piontecki, Deputy Head of Dance and BTEC Dance Pathway Leader, Day School and Sixth Form

 

“Thank you so much for joining us at our Dance Day this year. It was wonderful working with every single one of you, and we hope you had as much fun as we did. It was a pleasure and a privilege to see so much talent in one room with everyone bringing their A-game, commitment and obvious love of all things Dance! We hope to see you at our audition days and hopefully in September 2025!”

Jamie Harris, Head of Dance and Dance Teacher, Day School and Sixth Form

 

Whether you were dancing, or supporting, thank you for being part of this incredible event. Your energy and enthusiasm made the day a true success.

 

These events reminded us why we love what we do: nurturing and celebrating the next generation of artists. It was a privilege to meet so many talented young people, all eager to explore their potential and take their first steps toward a future in the performing arts.

If you felt inspired by Boys Day or Dance Day, or if you’re just discovering ArtsEd, now is the perfect time to consider joining our Day School and Sixth Form. With unparalleled training, outstanding facilities, and a supportive environment that fosters creativity and confidence, ArtsEd is the ideal place to transform your passion into your future.

Applications are now open! Take the next step on your performing arts journey and join us at ArtsEd.

Day School (ages 11-16)

 

ArtsEd’s Day School provides a dynamic combination of academic excellence and performing arts education. The school offers a supportive and inclusive environment, allowing students to flourish both artistically and academically.

Find out more     Download our Prospectus     Book a Visit     Apply Now

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.  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     Download our Prospectus    Book a Visit     Apply Now  

 

ArtsEd Celebrates the Class of 2024 BA Graduation

Posted on: October 25th, 2024 by Marketing User

It’s been nearly two months since we bid farewell to our BA Class of 2024, and we couldn’t be prouder as we watch them thrive on stage and screen. Their graduation was a momentous occasion that brought together students, faculty, and prominent guests to celebrate the exceptional achievements of this year’s cohort. The packed venue was filled with heartwarming reflections on the students’ hard work, passion, and dedication as they prepared to embark on their professional journeys in the performing arts industry.

 

Notable attendees included David Grindrod, esteemed casting director and ArtsEd’s Vice President, along with Samuel Creasey, a celebrated alumnus from the School of Acting, Class of 2020. The Mayor of Hounslow and several of ArtsEd’s trustees also joined the celebrations, highlighting the strong community ties and support for these future stars of stage and screen.

 

The ceremony featured inspiring speeches from both the School of Acting and School of Musical Theatre, with staff and students alike reflecting on the significance of the day and the exciting future awaiting the Class of 2024. The event was further elevated by a stunning performance from the Class of 2025 Musical Theatre students, whose talent and enthusiasm filled the room with energy and applause.

 

One of the standout achievements of the Class of 2024 is that an impressive 97% of students graduated with external agency representation—a testament to the high calibre of training and industry connections at ArtsEd. This support means our graduates are well-positioned to thrive in their careers, whether on stages or screens around the globe.

 

As part of the celebrations, the Class of 2004 podcast, Life After Jazz Hands, captured interviews with students and their families, offering a nostalgic and heartfelt glimpse into the personal journeys of this year’s graduates. These conversations highlighted not only the transformative impact of their time at ArtsEd but also their excitement for the future. You can listen to their ArtsEd graduation podcast on Spotify and Apple Music below.

Spotify    Apple Podcast

 

After the ceremony, the celebrations continued at ArtsEd with a lively drinks reception, where graduates, staff, and guests toasted to the next chapter. The event was a fitting close to an unforgettable day, marking both the end of an era and the beginning of bright, exciting careers for the Class of 2024.

 

Credit: Macaulay Nicholson Creative

 

 

We are immensely proud of all that the Class of 2024 has achieved and wish them continued success as they make their mark in the performing arts industry. Their talent, resilience, and dedication will undoubtedly carry them far. Congratulations once again, Class of 2024! We can’t wait to see where your journeys take you next.

 

School of Acting, Class of 2024, Graduates

School of Musical Theatre, Class of 2024, Graduates

 

Applications are now open for 2025!

 

Applications are now open for our 2025 intake, and we invite aspiring performers to join ArtsEd’s vibrant community. Whether your interests lie in acting or musical theatre, ArtsEd offers world-class training, industry connections, and a nurturing environment that will help you thrive in your professional career.

 

If you’re ready to follow in the footsteps of our recent graduates and make your mark in the performing arts, we encourage you to apply now and start your journey with us. Visit the links below for more information on the application process and upcoming audition dates.

Auditions       Funding & Scholarships       Audition Dates       Apply Now

ArtsEd Alumni Celebrated at Black British Theatre Awards 2024

Posted on: September 25th, 2024 by Marketing User

ArtsEd is thrilled to celebrate the exceptional achievements of seven of our alumni, who have been nominated for the prestigious Black British Theatre Awards (BBTAs) 2024. These nominations are a testament to the extraordinary talent, dedication, and hard work of our graduates, who continue to make waves in the theatre industry.

The Black British Theatre Awards, first established in 2019, are the UK’s only awards celebrating the excellence of Black performers and creatives. Founded by Solange Urdang and Omar F. Okai, the BBTAs aim to shine a light on black talent, honour their accomplishments, and accelerate opportunities for black theatre professionals. With categories that span across acting, writing, and technical production, the BBTAs have become a vital platform for recognising the outstanding contributions of black artists in UK theatre.

This year, the ArtsEd family is incredibly proud to announce that seven of our graduates have been nominated for awards in a variety of categories, showcasing the breadth of talent nurtured within our school:

“We are incredibly proud of Joshua-Alexander and Lucie for their outstanding achievements and well-deserved nominations at the Black British Theatre Awards. Their dedication, resilience, and talent have shone through in their performance and creative work. Seeing our graduates receive such prestigious recognition is a testament to their training at ArtEd and hard work. We are excited to see them continue to thrive and make a lasting impact in the theatre industry.”
Kim Vithana, Director of the School of Acting at ArtsEd

 

Sedona Sky in Heathers The Musical being lifted onto the shoulders of cast members
Joshua-Alexander Williams (middle) in Romeo & Juliet
Marley Fenton in Wizard of Oz
Lucie Lutte original work Phone Killer
Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky
Ashley Campbell
Monique Jonas
Heather's The Musical
So Here We Are
Wizard of Oz
Phone Killer
Cruel Intentions
Just For One Day
Romeo & Juliet
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Lucie Lutte Phone Killer
Cruel Intentions
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“We are delighted to see so many of our graduates nominated in this year’s Black British Theatre Awards. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the amazing artists that their work is recognised and celebrated. We are particularly proud of the graduates from the School of Musical Theatre: Ashley Campbell, Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky, Marley Fenton and Sedona Sky. Congratulations to you all! It’s a joy that their work is recognised and that they are outstanding ambassadors for the School of Musical Theatre and ArtsEd.”
Jonathan O’Boyle, Director of the School of Musical Theatre at ArtsEd

 

The BBTAs celebrate not only the achievements of individual artists but also serve as a vital initiative to promote diversity, visibility, and opportunity within the UK theatre industry. The awards, which have previously been hosted by industry giants like Cynthia Erivo, Danny Sapani, and Giles Terera, stand as a crucial reminder of the importance of inclusion and representation in theatre. Each year, anyone can nominate their favourite performers or productions, with eligibility criteria ensuring that nominees are either British nationals or have resided in the UK for at least three years.

 

“We are incredibly proud of Monique Jonas and her nomination for the Black British Theatre Awards. Monique’s dedication, passion, and talent have shone brightly since her time at ArtsEd’s Day School & Sixth Form, and it’s inspiring to see her continue to achieve such remarkable success in the industry. She is a fantastic role model for our current students, and we wish her every success as she continues to make her mark in the world of dance and theatre.”

Natalie Bareham, Director of Performing Arts – DSSF at ArtsEd

 

At ArtsEd, we are proud of the diverse talent we help to develop, and it is thrilling to see our alumni being recognised for their contributions to the arts. These nominations reflect not only their individual brilliance but also the collective effort of the ArtsEd community to foster creativity, resilience, and excellence in our students.

The BBTAs continue to illuminate, celebrate, and accelerate the careers of black theatre professionals through new initiatives, including outreach programmes, workshops, and mentorships, aimed at securing a more equitable future for Black artists. With our alumni leading the way in these accolades, we are confident that their achievements will inspire future generations of performers and creatives at ArtsEd and beyond.

We wish Sedona, Joshua-Alexander, Marley, Lucie, Rhianne-Louise, Ashley and Monique the best of luck at the awards, and we look forward to continuing to support them as they grow in their careers.

ArtsEd Pupils Celebrate Record-breaking Grades in their GCSEs

Posted on: August 22nd, 2024 by Marketing User

Following on the heels of an excellent set of A Level and BTEC results, ArtsEd pupils are celebrating today after achieving some superb results in their GCSEs.

In a year when ArtsEd had its largest number of GCSE entries, 100% of Year 11 students achieved 9-4 in Maths and in one English GCSE, 98% of results were graded 9-4 (up 2% on 2019) and the percentage of grades 9-7  was 46% (up 3% on 2019).  These results are extremely impressive – not only are they an improvement on 2023, but crucially they exceed the excellent pre-pandemic results of 2019, which were the School’s best results since GCSEs were reformed.

‘It is wonderful to be able to celebrate such a fantastic, record-breaking, set of results today. Our pupils, their parents and their teachers can be incredibly proud of these achievements.  Their enormous hard work and dedication have paid off – many congratulations to them all. Our ethos provides a broad and balanced education which excites, challenges, and inspires our students to achieve their potential.  I am delighted that, coupled with individualised support that enables pupils to realise their academic and vocational potential, this has been reflected in these outstanding results. We look forward to welcoming those returning Year 11s into our Sixth Form in September, alongside our new students, as they continue with their academic and vocation journeys; our best wishes go with pupils who will continue their education elsewhere.’

Peter Middleton, Headteacher

 

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Our Sixth Form curriculum allows Sixth Form students to immerse themselves in the subjects that they love; they can study a variety of different courses that include A levels and BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma qualifications.  This enables them to focus entirely on their vocational development or pursue academic interests alongside their passion for the performing arts.

At the heart of supporting this success is the ‘ArtsEd Curriculum’ – in which daily 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 11 and 13 students, and if you are 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!

Open Evenings – Find out more

Community Events: Christmas Choir

Posted on: January 16th, 2024 by Marketing User

This festive season, ArtsEd, added a melodious touch to the community’s Christmas celebrations with its inaugural Community Choir. This five-week community group, setup by Head of Development, Mary Ann Parish, Head of Outreach, Maame Atuah and led by the esteemed Musical Director Chris Huntley, brought together music enthusiasts from across the Chiswick community to learn, sing, and spread joy through the power of their voices.

A Choir for All Ages

Running every Tuesday in the lead-up to Christmas, the Community Choir was a testament to the inclusive spirit of ArtsEd. With participants ranging from 18 up to 72 years old, the choir represented a beautiful tapestry of the community, united by a shared passion for singing. The choir boasted 17 dedicated members, each bringing their unique sound and story to the ensemble.

Affordable, Accessible, and Heartwarming

At just £12 for the entire five-week community programme, the Community Choir was not only an artistic endeavour but also an accessible one, ensuring that the joy of singing and the warmth of community spirit were within reach of everyone. Chris Huntley’s expert guidance provided members with an opportunity to hone their vocal skills, learn the intricacies of musical theatre and Christmas songs, and experience the camaraderie and satisfaction that comes from singing in a choir.

Culminating in Cheerful Performances

The choir’s journey culminated in two heartwarming performances. The first, an intimate event at ArtsEd, allowed friends and family to witness the harmonious results of their loved ones’ dedication and hard work over the past 5-weeks. The second performance took place at the Santa Run at The Hogarth Club, where the choir’s festive repertoire, featuring three musical theatre songs and three Christmas classics, added a magical touch to the event.

“I joined the Community Choir because my daughter attends ArtsEd and I loved the idea of being able to attend something at her school.  I used to be in a choir but had to give it up so this was an ideal opportunity for me.

I really enjoyed being part of the choir, a lovely group of people and a very dedicated and supportive choir master.  We had some great songs to sing and it was such great fun.  We even got a break each evening with refreshments to chat and get to know each other.

A major shoutout to Charlie – a student at ArtsEd who helped make us feel welcome and organise the refreshments and support the singing.

Thanks also to MaryAnn who kept us up to date with emails and general organisation keeping things running smoothly. I really hope the choir can continue I will definitely be back”

Participant of the 2023 Christmas Choir.

Looking Ahead

As ArtsEd looks forward to hosting more community centred initiatives, the Community Choir stands as a proud reminder of the joyful connection that the arts can bring to our lives.

For those who missed this year’s choir but are eager to participate in similar future events, ArtsEd encourages community members to stay tuned for upcoming programs. Whether you are a seasoned performer or a newcomer to the world of performing arts, ArtsEd’s doors are always open to those who wish to explore their artistic talents and be a part of a vibrant community.

Want to Get Involved? Sign Up to Our Community Newsletter

We invite everyone in the Chiswick community to engage with us, whether it’s through participating in our programs, attending performances, or simply spreading the word about the transformative power of the arts. If you want to get involved in our next community event/programme sign up to our community newsletter below. Together, let’s continue to make Chiswick a place where the arts thrive and communities flourish. The ArtsEd Community Choir was just the beginning of what promises to be a harmonious and enriching journey connecting through the arts.

Newsletter Sign-Up

 

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Chiswick Arts and Business Networking Drinks 2024

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