We’re thrilled that you are considering ArtsEd as your drama school of choice! Embarking on a transformative journey into the performing arts with us signifies stepping into a space where your passion for acting and musical theatre will be nurtured, challenged, and celebrated. We’re committed to providing a rich, comprehensive, and supportive educational experience for all our students, and we’re delighted to accompany you at every step of your application process. This guide is meticulously curated to provide you with all the information needed for a successful application, ensuring that each step you take is informed, confident, and stress-free. Let’s dive into the journey together!

1. Choose the Programme You Want to Apply For

Embarking on a journey at ArtsEd begins with choosing a programme that best aligns with your aspirations and career goals. Explore the varied offerings under the School of Acting and School of Musical Theatre:

School of Acting:

• BA (Hons) Acting
• MA (Acting)
• Foundation in Acting (Cert HE Acting)

School of Musical Theatre:

• BA (Hons) Musical Theatre
• Foundation in Musical Theatre (Cert HE Musical Theatre)

Evaluate each programme’s curriculum, duration, and prerequisites to understand what aligns with your career aspirations and educational background. This step is crucial because it sets the stage for your educational trajectory, influencing your future career in the performing arts.

2. Think About How You’ll Finance Your Studies

Taking a moment to ponder upon your financial planning for your studies at ArtsEd is an important step before diving into the application process. We have various scholarships and funding options available to you, please investigate and consider what financial support you might need throughout your studies.

• Read About Funding and scholarships available for ArtsEd students here.

Remember, investing in your education is investing in your future, and securing your financial stability during your studies will enable you to fully immerse yourself in the ArtsEd experience without undue stress.

3. Apply Via Our Application Portal

Initiating your application process via ArtsEd’s online portal means stepping into an organized, straightforward application journey. The digital portal is designed to guide applicants through a step-by-step process, from account creation to document submission. Pay close attention to the instructions and ensure that all required documents and details are accurately provided. Keeping a checklist of necessary documents and prerequisites handy can be immensely helpful in this stage.

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4. Choose Your Audition Date and Save in Your Calendar

Selecting your audition date is a pivotal step in the application process. Considering your preparedness, availability, and any other engagements, choose a date that allows you enough time for thorough preparation and relaxation before the audition. Mark the date in your calendar, set reminders, and organize your preparation schedule to build towards this important day.

5. Prepare for Your Audition Using Our Useful Tips

Audition preparation is often marked by a blend of excitement and nervousness. Utilize our useful tips and guides to navigate through your preparation phase seamlessly.

• How to nail your drama school audition article will walk you through the audition process for Acting programmes. It includes th comprehensive guide on how to prepare your self-tape.
• Musical Theatre audition tips – Master your ArtsEd audition! article will help you to prepare for a Musical Theatre audition day that includes Singing, Acting and Dancing auditions.

Ensure you adhere to the guidelines provided and engage in rigorous practice. Seeking feedback from mentors or peers during this phase can also provide valuable insights into your preparation.

6. Attend Your Audition, Try to Relax and Enjoy

The audition day is your moment to shine and showcase your talent and dedication to the craft. Approach the day with a calm, positive mindset and remember to enjoy the process. Whether you’re auditioning in-person or virtually, ensure that you are present in the moment, and convey not just your skills, but also your passion and personality. Your authenticity and enjoyment of the craft will undoubtedly shine through when you’re genuinely engaged.

7. Wait for the Results

After the adrenaline of the audition day subsides, patience becomes your best companion. Regardless of the outcome, remember that the experience gained during this process is invaluable and will stand you in good stead for future opportunities.

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Each of these steps in the journey to applying for ArtsEd Drama School unfolds a unique set of experiences and learnings. Embrace each stage with curiosity, dedication, and a love for the performing arts to pave your way into an exiting education in Acting or Musical Theatre. Remember, your journey in the performing arts is not just about perfecting the skill but also about enjoying the process and learning continually.

We are delighted to share that three of our ArtsEd alumni have been nominated for the distinguished 2023 Black British Theatre Awards in the category of Best Recent Graduates. This recognition not only casts a spotlight on the innate talents of our alumni, but it also speaks volumes about the standard of ArtsEd’s training and mentorship.

Jenna Bonner — An outstanding talent from our Sixth Form, Jenna made the bold decision to delve directly into the industry upon completing her Sixth Form studies. She is currently captivating audiences in her role as Swing in “Tina: The Musical” at the Aldwych Theatre.

Leah Vassell — A proud graduate of our BA Musical Theatre class of 2022, Leah’s exceptional talent sees her taking on the role of Alternate Jane Seymour/Catherine Parr in the renowned “Six: The Musical”.

Charis Alexandra — Yet another graduate from our BA Musical Theatre class of 2022, Charis is currently playing the role of Alline Bullock in “Tina: The Musical” at the Aldwych Theatre.

To Jenna, Leah, and Charis, our heartfelt congratulations. Your accomplishments are a testament to the dedication and passion with which you approach your craft, and we couldn’t be prouder.

ArtsEd is delighted to announce that it has appointed Mr Peter Middleton as the Day School and Sixth Form Interim Headteacher for the academic year 2023-24.

Peter is an experienced Head, Oxford graduate, and with a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Management. A lifelong learner, he is committed to continuous self-improvement and sets high expectations not only for academic excellence but also for the personal development of each individual student.

Peter grew up in Somerset and was educated at Radley College before reading Chemistry at Oriel College, Oxford. He began his teaching career at Cheltenham College and moved to St Edward’s School, Oxford, where he was a Housemaster and was responsible for Prep School Liaison. He was subsequently appointed as Deputy Head at Clifton College. From 2013 to 2020 he was Principal at Welbeck College, where students were on a pathway to careers within the armed forces.  There, he developed an environment that balanced academic standards and expectations with opportunities for students’ personal and career development.  He also ensured that both Welbeck and Clifton were given the highest ratings by ISI inspectors. After the closure of Welbeck, he was Head of Kensington Park School.

With a proven track record of supporting students on specialist career pathways, the Board of Trustees is convinced that this, coupled with Peter’s passion for the academic success and personal development of our students, makes him extremely well-placed to lead the Day School and Sixth Form through the next period of its development.

Peter said:

“It is an honour and privilege to have been invited to be the interim Headteacher of ArtsEd. Parents have only one opportunity to give their children the best possible education.  I am committed to working with parents, pupils and staff to ensure that ArtsEd delivers an exceptional education; where ambition and academic achievement are respected and highly valued, creativity is celebrated and diversity is embraced.  In an environment where the performing arts are at the heart of education, it is crucial the each individual is nurtured and challenged to become the best possible version of themselves.  I am commitment to ensuring that students will leave having achieved goals and aspirations of which they could only have dreamed.  I am really looking forward to joining the ArtsEd community in September and working with the inspirational staff, outstanding students and their parents.”

ArtsEd’s Principal, Dr Julie Spencer said:

“I am delighted about Peter’s appointment as Interim Headteacher. His impressive depth of expertise in the education sector means that Peter is exceptionally well qualified to lead the Day School and Sixth Form pupils and their inspirational teachers over the coming year”

ArtsEd School of Musical Theatre is delighted to announce that Reece McGowan, Georgie Gaudencio, Al Knott, Will Hopkins, and Kayna Montecillo have obtained Ian Fleming Award and got funding to advance their studies.

Initiated in 1980, the Ian Fleming Charitable Trust Music Education Awards, in collaboration with Help Musicians, have been steadfast in their support of exceptionally talented young musicians, aiding them with the financial challenges of higher education.

For those students on the cusp of their final year in Musical Theatre, there’s an opportunity to receive up to £5,000 in financial support, aimed at offsetting study and living expenses for the next academic chapter.

We are thrilled to announce that Reece McGowan, Georgie Gaudencio, Al Knott, Will Hopkins, and Kayna Montecillo have not only met the criteria but excelled in their applications and auditions, earning them this year’s coveted Ian Fleming Award for Musical Theatre.

Fantastic job! We’re immensely proud and look forward to seeing you grow as performers in your third, and final, year of training with us.

We are thrilled to announce outstanding BTEC and A-Levels results achieved by our Sixth Form students this year.

Students enjoyed success in both BTEC and A-Levels:

BTEC

• 92% secured D*D*D* to DDD (Distinction star to Distinction). This is equivalent in UCAS points to 3 A*’s to 3 A’s at A level.
• 78% received D*D*D* (equivalent to 3 A*’s at A level)

A-Level:

• 82% of A Levels taken were graded A*- C

Combined: (including BTEC equivalent UCAS points)

• 94% of all exams taken were graded or equivalent to A*- C

Mark Ferrington, Director of Sixth Form said

I am so pleased with the individual achievements of our students this year. They should all be so proud of their hard work and dedication over the past two years, what a great set of results. Thank you to all our teachers, parents and carers who have supported our young people during their time at ArtsEd Sixth Form.  We wish all our students the very best of luck as they move forward onto the next chapter of their journey.

Lizzie Bellamy, Head of BTEC, had the following message for students:

Congratulations to our Year 13 BTEC students. You should be proud of what you have each achieved. You have shown great strength and vigour throughout the past two years. I hope you can all look back on your journey with us with pride, knowing that you can overcome any challenge if you put your mind to it. We look forward to hearing of your future successes. Keep motivated, open, and share your creative voice.

If you are interested in learning more about life at ArtsEd Day School and Sixth Form, why not join us at our upcoming Open Evenings this September! Register today and share the link with others who might be interested.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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ArtsEd BA Acting student, Jake Evans has been awarded a financial bursary to help him complete his training, having successfully auditioned for a panel of theatre industry professionals. The Society of London Theatre (SOLT) awarded a total of £79,000 in Laurence Olivier Bursaries for 2023 to 17 deserving students from drama schools across the UK, and Jake is among the deserving recipients.

Recognising Exceptional Talent
The Laurence Olivier Bursaries were established by SOLT in 1987 on the occasion of Laurence Olivier’s 80th birthday. These bursaries aim to provide vital financial assistance to exceptional students who are entering their final year of drama school and may face financial challenges that could jeopardise their studies. This year, the bursaries have been awarded to 17 talented students from drama schools across the UK, further emphasising the significance of this achievement.

A History of Success
Esteemed actors such as Denise Gough, Bryony Hannah, Paterson Joseph, Ewan McGregor, Daniel Rigby, Vinette Robinson, Juma Sharkah, Michaela Coel, and Michael Sheen have all been recipients of the Laurence Olivier Bursary. This legacy highlights the recognition and support that this prestigious award brings to emerging talents.

The Audition Process
Nominees for the Laurence Olivier Bursary are put forward by drama schools across the UK. These aspiring actors are then auditioned on a West End stage and interviewed by a panel of distinguished theatre industry professionals. This year, the auditions took place at St Martin’s Theatre, creating a unique opportunity for students to showcase their skills and potential in a professional setting.

Well done Jake! We’re immensely proud and look forward to seeing you light up stage and screen in your third, and final, year of training with us.

In an exciting turn of events, Prime Minister Philip Davis of the Bahamas paid a momentous visit to ArtsEd as part of his delegation’s trip to London for the coronation of King Charles.

The prime minister’s connection with ArtsEd was facilitated by Ian Poitier, a director and government advisor for the Bahamas in the field of arts. Poitier, who directed ArtsEd’s Principal, Dr. Julie Spencer, in the 2007 film “Oh Happy Days,” played a pivotal role in arranging the meeting. It is worth highlighting that Poitier himself is an esteemed alumnus of ArtsEd, having graduated in 1988 as the first black student admitted to the Musical Theatre course.

During his visit, Prime Minister Davis embarked on a comprehensive tour of ArtsEd’s state-of-the-art facilities, immersing himself in the institution’s creative environment and even attending some degree-level lessons. This first-hand experience provided him with valuable insight into the rigorous training and artistic excellence offered at ArtsEd.

Joining the prime minister on this inspiring tour was Miriam-Teak Lee, a highly regarded ArtsEd alumna and recipient of the prestigious Olivier Award. Lee, renowned for her exceptional talent and accomplishments in the performing arts industry, graciously shared her personal experiences as a former ArtsEd student. Her presence further underscored the significant contributions the school makes in nurturing and shaping artistic talent.

Expressing her gratitude for Prime Minister Davis’s visit, Dr. Julie Spencer, Principal of ArtsEd, stated, “We are deeply honoured to host Prime Minister Philip Davis and his esteemed team at ArtsEd. Our institution has always championed the power of collaboration and cultural exchange, and we eagerly look forward to exploring potential partnerships with the Bahamas.”

The discussions throughout the visit centred around fostering cultural exchanges, nurturing talent, and embracing diversity. The visit served as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that the arts can have in uniting people and creating a more vibrant and interconnected world. ArtsEd remains committed to its mission of cultivating creativity and providing a platform for artistic expression that transcends borders.

Photo: Disha Fraser

ArtsEd made an elegant return to the  annual Olivier Awards on Sunday night at the Royal Albert Hall, when our graduating BA Musical Theatre students performed alongside Shanay Holmes during the In Memoriam section of the ceremony. The choir accompanied Shanay in a spotless performance of Jonathan Larson’s Seasons of Love; a moving tribute to shining lights of the industry who have passed away in the last twelve months.

Taking part in such a prestigious ceremony was a wonderful experience for the students who were thrilled to be a part of such a moving moment in the event.

Performing as a year group at the Olivier Awards was an absolute joy and an honour. It was such a fantastic, inspiring experience and an incredible way to round off the best three years of training!
Eleanor Peach, BA Musical Theatre ’23

If you missed the live performance, you can still catch up below. As the students move on to the next phase of their careers, this performance serves as a reminder of the bright futures that surely await them. You can also visit the official Olivier Awards website to see the full list of the evening’s winners and other highlights from the ceremony.

Photo: Christie Goodwin

As part of Sign Language Week, ArtsEd are delighted to celebrate the fact that they are the first UK drama school to embed British Sign Language into the curriculum.

ArtsEd’s student cohort is notably diverse with a curriculum that reflects the richness of cultural references and experiences of the students, as well as a focus on the ever-evolving developments in the creative industries.

ArtsEd Principal, Dr Julie Spencer says:

As the sector works to develop its inclusion of the deaf and hard of hearing community both on and off stage, ArtsEd is equipping students with communication skills that will help to support this integration in the long-term.  Expanding the BA Acting curriculum to include BSL was a natural step in the ongoing development of a course that is both contemporary and inclusive.

BSL is integrated into the first year of the BA Acting degree, with a first term module developed in collaboration with Rupal Chandi, a leading BSL tutor, with in-depth experience of working with performers and as a Deaf Consultant for theatre.

In their first term, students have weekly classes with Rupal, exploring the use of visual communication with the support of BSL. Using facial expression, body language, placement and fingerspelling. This insight into communication beyond voice encourages students to explore the physicality of language in other areas of curriculum.

1^st Year BA Acting student Saphira Wing says:-

Learning BSL with Rupal has really helped me to progress as a performer, particularly implementing what we’ve learnt into our project work.  Not only has it allowed my performances and learning to be more dynamic and positively challenging, it has also highlighted the importance of inclusive practice in the performing arts, to me and to the rest of my cohort.  Working with Rupal has highlighted the multifaceted nature of communication and I hope prepared us to be part of the change that will make the industry more facilitating and accessible to everyone.

The success of the pilot project in September 2021 has led to BSL being embedded further, and it is now included in the contemporary physical theatre and verbatim theatre modules  in the second term. Students work with Rupal and external directors, blending BSL into their performances.  Rupal says:-

Working with Arts Ed so far has been an amazing challenge, we are constantly changing and developing how we incorporate BSL into the students learning and projects. I enjoy supporting them in exploring the benefits of BSL being used within their performances.

Find out more about ArtsEd’s Acting courses here

The magic of theatre was alive and well on Friday, February 10th, as 9 cast members from the original West End production of “A Chorus Line” made a surprise appearance at the evening performance. The students, who are in their third and final year, were left speechless and in awe of the legendary cast members, who shared their experiences and provided a valuable learning opportunity for the aspiring performers.

The musical, “A Chorus Line,” first opened its doors in the West End at the historic Theatre Royal Drury Lane in 1976, and it quickly became a hit, running for three years and winning the Laurence Olivier Award as Best Musical of the Year in 1976, the first year the awards were presented. The original British cast took over the production in 1977.

The surprise appearance by the cast members provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the students, who had the chance to meet and interact with the legends themselves. The cast shared their experiences and offered advice to the students, who were eager to absorb every bit of knowledge they could from the seasoned performers.

The appearance of the cast members was a testament to the lasting impact that “A Chorus Line” has had on the world of musical theatre. The musical has been performed all over the world, and it continues to be a beloved show, inspiring new generations of performers.

Thank you to our trustee, and original cast member, Cherry Dickins, for making this happen.