Archive for the ‘News’ Category

ArtsEd Begins Recruitment Process for New Principal

Posted on: September 30th, 2024 by Holly Mumford

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

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

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

Download the Candidate Pack

 

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
previous arrow
next arrow
Sedona Sky in Heathers The Musical being lifted onto the shoulders of cast members
Romeo & Juliet
Wizard of Oz
Lucie Lutte Phone Killer
Cruel Intentions
Ashley Campbell
Monique Jonas
previous arrow
next arrow

 

“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

 

2
3
4
previous arrow
next arrow
2
3
4
previous arrow
next arrow

 

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

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
previous arrow
next arrow
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
previous arrow
next arrow

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
previous arrow
next arrow

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

previous arrow
next arrow

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

previous arrow
next arrow
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
previous arrow
next arrow
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.

.


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

ArtsEd at Green Days Festival: Celebrating Community and Student Talent

Posted on: June 12th, 2024 by Joshua Robinson

On Sunday 9th June, ArtsEd proudly participated in the Green Days event, a highlight of the Bedford Park Festival, known for its vibrant community spirit and array of activities. Green Days was a weekend-long event filled with family-friendly fun, local crafts, food stalls, and live entertainment, all set in the picturesque Acton Green Common. The festival is a cherished tradition that brought together residents and visitors to celebrate the unique charm of Chiswick.

Slide 1

ArtsEd Performances

On June 8th, from 12:15 to 12:45, students from ArtsEd’s Day School and Sixth Form took the stage to showcase their talents. The performance included a variety of acts such as solos, group numbers, instrumental pieces, and even an original song by one of our talented students. The repertoire spanned multiple genres, ensuring a delightful experience for all attendees.

Performances:

“This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to perform and engage with the community, which is central to our values. We were thrilled to be a part of Green Days and always look forward to sharing our students’ hard work and creativity with a festival audience.”
Peter Middleton, Headteacher

Slide 1
Slide 1
Slide 1
Slide 1
Slide 1
Slide 1
previous arrow
next arrow

Marquee and Stand Activities

ArtsEd also had a marquee and stand on Sunday, where festival-goers could learn more about our school, courses and upcoming shows and events. Additionally, we hosted a “Guess the Show” competition, where participants guessed which shows two displayed costumes were from for a chance to win exciting prizes, including a pair of tickets to see our alumni in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express, a pair of tickets to see one of our upcoming 2024 autumn productions and a deluxe goodie bag with ArtsEd merchandise and prosecco. Entry to the competition cost £5, with all proceeds supporting our bursary programmes.

Slide 1
Slide 1
Slide 1
Slide 1
previous arrow
next arrow

About Green Days

Green Days, part of the larger Bedford Park Festival, is a community event that features an eclectic mix of activities and attractions. Attendees enjoyed live music, funfair rides, craft stalls, a book stall, a plant stall, and various games. Food and drink options abounded, with plenty of choices to satisfy every palate. The festival also included a Dog Show, a Fancy Dress Parade for children, and the popular 5-a-side football tournament.

The event not only provided entertainment but also supported local charities and community projects, aligning perfectly with ArtsEd’s mission to foster community engagement and support.

For more information on Bedford Park Festival and the full schedule of events, visit Bedford Park Festival.

Thank you to everyone who joined us at Green Days to support our students, enjoy the festivities, and engage with the vibrant Chiswick community!