The atmosphere at Arts Educational Schools (ArtsEd) was electric on Tuesday, 2 September, as the BA (Hons) Acting and BA (Hons) Musical Theatre Class of 2025 celebrated their Graduation – a day of monumental achievement made even more extraordinary by one fact: every single graduating student secured agent representation before the ceremony’s conclusion. This unprecedented success is not just a testament to the students’ exceptional talent and dedication, but a powerful affirmation of ArtsEd’s performing arts BA (Hons) programme and its unwavering commitment to forging industry-ready artists. 

Completing three years at one of the most prestigious drama schools is “no. mean. feat.,” as Alumni and Guest Speaker, Georgina Onuorah (Class of 2020) noted. This moment marks not just a bittersweet ending, but a “magical new beginning” for a cohort ready to step onto the world stage. 

From Studio to Stage: The Niche and Transformative Training 

The journey through ArtsEd’s triple-threat training is famously rigorous, often involving a kaleidoscope of artistic and physical challenges. The graduates celebrated the “really niche experience” that saw them jump from trying to “master a grand allegro” and “figuring out how to tilt your larynx,” to the often-humorous moments in acting class. 

As BA (Hons) Acting graduate, Isabel Barden reflected on the early days: “In Term One brought projects… [that involved] rehearsing how an… owl flies down to its nest and how slow a sloth can move.” They had truly “done it all,” moving through everything from animal studies to complex final-year shows. The goal of this intensive process, as Beau Lonergan, BA (Hons) Musical Theatre graduate, articulated, is for ArtsEd to accept people who have potential and from their foundations “builds up skyscrapers of performers,” grounding their work on a base of skill and wisdom. 

This intense environment naturally led to deep bonds. Thinking back to their first voice class, where everyone felt like a “complete stranger,” the first year gave way to a lasting legacy. The ArtsEd BA programme Class of 2025 became “a family who have gotten each other through, who have witnessed each other stumbling and soaring, who have made epic art together.” 

The Superpower of Self: Authenticity is Your Asset 

The speeches delivered on the day consistently championed the importance of embracing one’s own unique identity—a crucial piece of advice for the tough and unpredictable industry ahead. 

Onuorah, reflecting on her own unexpected path, shared how being a “shy tween with a socially debilitating stutter” led to a hidden strength: the love of listening. “Your training doesn’t end here—listening well is a skill that will only make your work richer,” she advised, concluding with the powerful message: “whatever makes you different is your superpower.” 

This message of authenticity was reinforced by a hilarious first-audition anecdote: after weeks of perfecting a song, scene, and walk, she “walked into the room and stacked it so hard the casting team gasped in acknowledgment.” Instead of crumbling, she laughed, the casting team laughed, and it broke the ice. “That was the first job I booked.” It proved the key lesson: “never stop bringing our authentic selves into those rooms, because that is our most valuable asset.” The industry needs you “Just as you are.” 

Building a Legacy: Kindness, Competition, and Community 

The Class of 2025 leaves a vibrant legacy, exemplified by moments of shared joy, determination, and collaboration. They were the first year to stage a completely self-created, self-directed showcase in the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Theatre, creating an electric atmosphere for their peers. Even in the face of inevitable “bad days” and tears, they were pushed through by “the little voices of encouragement of ‘you’ve got this’ in the locker rooms” from their year group. 

The gratitude for the dedicated ArtsEd staff was palpable, with thanks spanning the entire building, from the teachers who are the “back bone to our education” to the site staff who keep the beautiful building “functioning, clean and safe.” Specific praise was given to those who “guided us to be screen stars,” taught them improvisation, and even those who “literally taught a whole year group how to hip-hop,” despite not being the musical theatre course. 

Ultimately, the graduates were praised for their “passion and fight,” for having “stuck up for each other, fought for what is right and encouraged each other to learn and grow as individuals.” They hope to continue their professional lives with “kindness and a consideration to others wherever we go.” 

The Adventure is Only Just Beginning 

With the astounding achievement of 100% agent representation, the newest ArtsEd Alumni are exceptionally well-positioned for their careers. They are reminded that the journey is “yours. You are the driver.” 

As they embark, the advice is to be patient with themselves and focus on what truly matters. “Don’t compare yourselves to others, we are all unique and our moments will come at different points in our lives.” Furthermore, they are urged to remember that “Acting doesn’t go anywhere”, and to make sure they “feel purpose and motivated in other forms away from acting.” 

The graduation is not an end, but a transformation, encapsulated by a beloved quote from Into the Woods: “The difference between a cow and a bean, is a bean can begin an adventure.” 

ArtsEd was that very bean, and the adventure is only just beginning. We look forward to seeing this talented group go boldly, with joy, dignity, and skill, in pursuit of excellence. 

Following on from the excellent A-Level and BTEC results last week, ArtsEd Year 11 pupils are celebrating today after achieving some outstanding results in their GCSEs – in doing so they have smashed the records set last year.

This year, 15% of all grades awarded are 9s – an increase of 6% on last year and 5% better than 2019.  The percentage of grades 9 – 7 is 48% (up 2% on 2024 and 5% better than 2019).  These results are extremely impressive – not only are they an improvement on 2024, but crucially they exceed the excellent pre-pandemic results of 2019, which were the School’s best results since GCSEs were reformed.

Headteacher, Peter Middleton said,

“We are thrilled to be able to celebrate such a fantastic, record-breaking, set of results today. Our pupils, their parents and their teachers should be incredibly proud of these achievements.  The diligence and commitment to their schooling have provided this superb outcome – 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 both their academic and vocational potential, which so well reflected in the unique ArtsEd curriculum.

We look forward to celebrating both these GCSE and A-Level results when our Year 11s return, alongside our new students, to our Sixth Form in September to continue with their academic and vocation journeys.”

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 which 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 (ISI) 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

Last year, ArtsEd was recognised by the Independent School’s Association, receiving their National Award for Excellence in the Performing Arts. ArtsEd is currently shortlisted for the National Independent School of the Year Award for Performing Arts.

ArtsEd is delighted to announce another year of outstanding academic achievement, with the graduating Sixth Form Class of 2025 achieving exceptional BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice and A-Level results. The School continues to build on its upward trend, with improvements across the graduating class results for the second consecutive year.

The Class of 2025 has delivered a strong performance, with 55% of the Sixth Form grades being the top marks of A* (A-Level) or D* (BTEC). This marks a significant increase from last year and is the second year in a row that this figure has risen. The number of students achieving A*-A at A-level and D*-D grades in the BTEC Acting, Dance and Musical Theatre also saw a substantial increase, further solidifying the School’s commitment to academic excellence.

A-Level and BTEC Success:

The combined BTEC and A level results show that overall the number of top grades in A level (A*) and BTEC (D*) was up 5% to 55%.  The A*- A rate was 74% (up 6%) and A*- B rate was 89% (up 1%)

ArtsEd’s BTEC students excelled, with an impressive 66% of grades being the top mark of D*D*D, with an increase in the number of students achieving the highest possible grade. In total, 89% of BTEC grades were in the D*D*D* to DDD range.

Headteacher, Peter Middleton, commented on the results:

“We are incredibly proud of our 2025 leavers. These results are a testament to the hard work and resilience of our students and the unwavering support of our dedicated teachers. To see an increase in the number of students achieving top grades, particularly for the second year running, is immensely gratifying. It demonstrates that the robust ‘ArtsEd Curriculum’ we have in place is having a tangible impact, and we are thrilled to see our students’ potential being realised at every level.”

The School is especially pleased with the upward movement in grades for students across the ability spectrum, which is directly reflected in the overall increase in grades. These results will enable students to pursue their chosen pathways at top universities, conservatoires, and vocational institutions. Last year, ArtsEd was recognised by the Independent School’s Association, receiving their National Award for Excellence in the Performing Arts. ArtsEd is currently shortlisted for this year’s award.

We’re absolutely thrilled to share the exciting news that Umar Kamara and Nadya Stoycheva, both second-year students on our BA Acting course, have been awarded Laurence Olivier Bursaries by the Society of London Theatre (SOLT).

The bursaries are given to exceptional drama students who demonstrate outstanding potential but face financial barriers as they approach their final year of training. It’s an honour that recognises not only talent and promise, but the dedication and resilience it takes to thrive in professional actor training.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Umar and Nadya have each been awarded a Laurence Olivier Bursary. As BA Acting students, they have shown exceptional commitment, talent, and drive throughout their training. This recognition from the Society of London Theatre is a reflection of their hard work and their awesome potential. We’re deeply grateful for the continued support that this bursary provides to emerging artists at this vital stage in their training.”
– Jake Harders, Co-Deputy Director of the School of Acting, ArtsEd

Now in its 38th year, the Laurence Olivier Bursary scheme was established to mark Laurence Olivier’s 80th birthday and continues to champion the next generation of theatre artists. Nominees are put forward by drama schools from across the UK and invited to audition and interview on a West End stage in front of a panel of leading industry professionals.

For Nadya, receiving the bursary was both a surreal and deeply affirming experience.

“Receiving this bursary is an absolute honour and it will impact my final year significantly. The experience of auditioning on a West End stage was surreal and will always be an unforgettable moment. As a girl who once thought drama school wasn’t going to be an option, to now be going into my final year at ArtsEd is a dream come true.”
– Nadya Stoycheva, BA Acting Student, Class of 2026, ArtsEd

The bursaries provide vital financial support that allows students to focus fully on their training without the added pressures of financial insecurity.

“In the current challenging financial climate, scholarships and awards such as the Laurence Olivier Awards are vital lifelines for many of our students, allowing them to benefit fully from their ArtsEd training and experience, as well as the important recognition of their talent that these awards provide.We are so grateful for this financial support which will help our students realise their full potential.

 

“If you want to help support more students in financial need please get in touch with the Development Office development@artsed.co.uk or find out more on how you can support us from making a donation to our bursary fund or becoming an ArtsEd Friend, we would love to hear from you.”
– Susie Butt, Head of Development, ArtsEd

We are so proud of Umar and Nadya for this fantastic achievement, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for them as they enter their final year, prepare to launch their professional careers and take to the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Theatre for their third-year performances.

We were thrilled to welcome back the brilliant Tuppence Middleton (BA Acting 2008), on Saturday 28 June,  for an unforgettable In Conversation With event, hosted by her best friend and fellow 2008 alumna, Georgina Hope.

Since graduating from ArtsEd, Tuppence’s career has flourished across stage and screen, with acclaimed performances in BBC’s War and Peace, The Imitation Game, Sense8, and the Downton Abbey films. More recently, she’s captivated West End audiences as Elizabeth Taylor in The Motive and the Cue and in The Years.

During the event, Tuppence spoke about her journey through the industry, sharing invaluable insights into navigating challenges, including living and working with OCD, and the importance of breaking down stigma around mental health. Her openness and honesty resonated deeply with our audience.

Tuppence, an intelligent, articulate and deeply creative artist, as demonstrated in her memoir in Scorpions, treated us to an exclusive reading of excerpts from the book, offering an intimate glimpse into her life and creative process.

She generously answered thoughtful questions from our students, speaking about the importance of self-advocacy, staying true to yourself and finding the courage to be open about mental health. It was heartening to hear how living authentically has been transformative for her, both personally and professionally.

Our students were inspired by her stories of resilience, and took away valuable advice on navigating the industry, from dealing with rejection to embracing their own unique journeys.

Before the talk, Tuppence and Georgina enjoyed a tour of the school and, afterwards, joined our community for a warm reception. Tuppence kindly signed copies of her book, answered more questions and mingled with students, alumni and guests. It was wonderful to see alumni from across the years reconnecting, sharing memories, and celebrating the community of ArtsEd together.

To close the event, our Head of Development, Susie Butt, reminded us why these events matter: to build a strong, supportive community, to inspire the next generation through the stories and experiences of our alumni, and to raise vital funds for our bursary and hardship support. The demand for our hardship fund has more than doubled in the past year. In today’s climate, the cost of living and training are real barriers for many talented young people, so every bit of support makes a real difference.

“It was wonderful to hear Tuppence reflect on her training at Arts Ed. She is a wonderful advocate for artistic excellence, and compassion in arts environments and spoke eloquently about mental health and neurodivergence. Her advice to our students was, likewise, thoughtfully provided and she offered real insight into navigating those first steps into industry. I really look forward to meeting more alumni and future events.”
Professor Louise Jackson, Principal, ArtsEd

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Tuppence and Georgina for their time, warmth and generosity in sharing their stories and inspiring our students. And thank you to our dedicated staff and teams across ArtsEd who make events like this possible.

If you’d like to find out more about how you can support our students and help ensure that talent, not circumstance, determines who trains at ArtsEd, please click here.

We are delighted to share the fantastic achievements of our talented students who continue to represent ArtsEd with passion, dedication, and outstanding artistry.

A Full Scholarship for Emma Hutchins

Huge congratulations to Emma Hutchins, who has been awarded a full scholarship from All England Dance (AED). Emma trained at Totnes School of Dance and has also just completed the ArtsEd Certificate in Higher Education Musical Theatre programme. This September, she will take the next big step in her training, joining our prestigious BA (Hons) Musical Theatre programme. Emma’s scholarship is a testament to her incredible talent and commitment — and we are so proud to continue supporting her journey.

Emma’s success is especially meaningful as ArtsEd is an official sponsor of both AED and the UK Young Dancer of the Year award for 2025. It’s wonderful to see our students recognised by these national platforms.

Finalists for UK Young Dancer of the Year

We are also thrilled to celebrate three ArtsEd students who have secured their place in the final of the UK Young Dancer of the Year competition:

• Colin Eiffe, BA Musical Theatre, Class of 2027

• Leonardo Scafati, BA Musical Theatre, Class of 2027

• Emma Hutchins, CertHE Musical Theatre, Class of 2025, & BA Musical Theatre, Class of 2028

• Rebecca Glasson, Day School and Sixth Form Student, Class of 2026

“We are incredibly proud of Emma, Colin and Leonardo. Their talent, commitment and work ethic truly embody what we strive for in the School of Musical Theatre. Achievements like these remind us why rigorous, supportive training is so important — it gives our students the confidence and skills to shine on any stage. I can’t wait to see what they accomplish next.”
Jonathan O’Boyle, Director of the School of Musical Theatre

Their success reflects the hard work, skill and dedication they bring to their training every day. As they prepare for the final in September, they have the extraordinary opportunity to work with industry icons Dame Arlene Phillips and Kate Prince, who are leading rehearsals at ArtsEd this weekend. We know they will soak up every moment of this invaluable experience.

“Rebecca’s success is a wonderful reflection of her dedication and the vibrant training environment we have here in the Day School and Sixth Form. Balancing academic studies with the demands of high-level performance training is no small feat, and we are so proud to see our students thriving and seizing these national opportunities.”
Natalie Bareham, Director of Performing Arts, Day School & Sixth Form

At ArtsEd, we are passionate about giving our students every opportunity to grow, learn and shine. We are proud to be part of their journey — providing world-class training, outstanding industry connections, and unwavering support as they take the stage and make their mark.

Congratulations to Emma, Colin, Leonardo and Rebecca — your achievements inspire us all!

We are thrilled to share that ArtsEd BA Acting, Class of 2026, student Saffron Crowl has been named one of the ten recipients of this year’s Lilian Baylis Awards, presented by the Royal Victoria Hall Foundation.

These highly respected awards honour the legacy of Lilian Baylis, the pioneering manager of London’s Old Vic from 1912 to 1937, and provide vital financial support to drama students as they complete their training. Each recipient is awarded funds to help ease the financial pressure of their final year of study.

The awards were presented at a special ceremony held at the Old Vic by Olivier Award-Winning actor Hiran Abeysekera, who underlined the importance of supporting young artists:

“People who can’t afford it need help to get there. You never know where they’ll go, how far they’ll reach and, when they get to those jobs, usually people who have got help before help others.”

“We are absolutely thrilled that Saffron has been recognised with the prestigious Lilian Baylis Award — a well deserved honour that reflects her exceptional talent, commitment, and artistry. Throughout her time at ArtsEd, Saffron has always worked to her best ability with passion, and a spirit of generosity to everything she does, both on and off the stage. It has been a joy to watch her grow as an artist and as a collaborator, and we are incredibly proud of all she has achieved. We have no doubt that this is just the beginning of an exciting and inspiring career, and we look forward to seeing all that she will contribute to the industry in the years ahead.”
Jake Harders & Mike Hayden, Co-Deputy Directors of the School of Acting

Congratulations, Saffron!

Saffron Crowl - Lilian Baylis Award

Saffron Crowl (middle)

Saffron Crowl

Saffron Crowl (left) and Hiran Abeysekera (right)

Saffron Crowl (middle)

Saffron Crowl (middle)

Read more from The Stage:

Recipients of Lilian Baylis Award

Read about ArtsEd’s 2024 winner:

Lilian Baylis Award 2024

It is with great pleasure that the Trustees announce the permanent appointment of Peter Middleton as Headteacher of the Day School and Sixth Form at ArtsEd.

Peter has held the role in an interim capacity over the last 18 months and The Chair of Trustees, Claire Blunt, wrote:

‘On behalf of the Trustees, I want to thank Peter for the integrity, warmth, and purpose he has brought to the role over the past 18 months. We look forward to working closely with him as we continue to support the remarkable young people here at ArtsEd.

Peter joined ArtsEd in September 2023 as Interim Headteacher, stepping into the role at a pivotal time for our school community. Since his arrival, Peter has brought clarity, calm, and purpose to the day-to-day running of the School. His impact has been evident in every aspect of school life — from the culture and morale of the staff team to the confidence and well-being of our students.

What has stood out though is Peter’s unwavering commitment to the success of our students. His leadership is characterised by his care, fairness, and ambition for all. He fosters an environment where students are listened to, challenged, and supported in a place where academic achievement and personal development go hand in hand. Peter has clearly demonstrated that the students are at the heart of all that he does whilst building strong relationships with parents and colleagues too.

He has gained the trust and respect of his team with his collaborative leadership style, open communication, and clear vision for the future. He has also engaged thoughtfully and purposefully with parents, carers, and the wider ArtsEd community — recognising the importance of partnership and shared ambition in achieving long-term success.

The Day School and Sixth Form has made both meaningful and measurable progress under Peter’s interim leadership and that positions us even more strongly for the future. Having undertaken a thorough process of reflection and review, the Board of Trustees is confident that Peter is the right person to lead the Day School and Sixth Form into its next chapter.’

Peter Middleton is delighted and said:

‘It has been a privilege over the past 18 months to be part of this amazing school – working closely with our staff, students and their families.  During this time, it has been wonderful to see the students’ develop and witness the outstanding achievements in all areas of the ArtsEd Curriculum.  I am most grateful to the Trustees for their support and for the confidence they have placed in me.  I look forward to leading the Day School and Sixth Form at this key time and to working closely with Louise Jackson as she arrives as Principal.’

ArtsEd is beaming with pride as two of its remarkable alumni have received prestigious nominations for the 2025 Tony Awards, honouring outstanding achievement on Broadway.

David Cumming, MA Acting 2009 Graduate, has earned nominations in four major categories for Operation Mincemeat — Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) Written for the Theatre and Best Performance By An Actor In A Featured Role In A Musical. The critically acclaimed production, co-created and performed by Cumming, has captivated audiences with its wit, originality, and musical brilliance.

“It’s wonderful to see MA Acting alumnus David Cumming deservedly nominated for a Tony Award for his charming and hilarious work as co-creator and performer of Operation Mincemeat directed by Robert Hastie. The MA course at ArtsEd enables students to learn multiple skills and celebrates actors who are also writers, musicians, directors and more. David is an amazing example of how developing your skillset and championing who you are can lead to great things.”
George Richmond-Scott, MA Acting Course Leader

In another major category Tom Francis, BA Musical Theatre 2020 Graduate, has been nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical for his outstanding portrayal in Sunset Boulevard. Tom’s powerful performance has won acclaim both in London and now on the Broadway stage.

“We are all delighted and thrilled for Tom on his Tony nomination for Best Performance by An Actor In A Leading Role In A Musical for his performance in Sunset Boulevard. Tom is an outstanding performer and ambassador for the school. He epitomises the very best of ArtsEd, and the world-class training facilitated and delivered here by our brilliant faculty of expert tutors.”
Jonathan O’Boyle, Director of the School of Musical Theatre

At ArtsEd, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of performers, storytellers, and theatre-makers. The success of David and Tom is a testament to their exceptional talent, dedication, and the comprehensive training they received during their time with us.

Congratulations Tom and David, from all of us at ArtsEd! We’ll be cheering you on at the Tony Awards.

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

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

Claire Blunt, Chair of Trustees

Sarah Hopwood (Finance)

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

Laura McGaughey (Finance)

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

Richard Nicholson (Secondary Education)

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

Matthew Wilson (Legal)

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

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