Carmel creates a very independent atmosphere and the very open campus almost prepares you for the next step after Carmel – going to university.

I like studying Performing Arts at Carmel because you learn a wide range of performing styles and are able to develop your skills and understanding of the subject.

During my time here so far, I have taken part in the National Theatre Connections festival performing in a production at college and at the Lowry Theatre in Manchester. I have also taken part in the ‘NewViews’ project which is a playwriting course providing a chance of it being performed by professionals at the National Theatre, London. We have been to watch poet Roger McGough at the Playhouse Theatre and taken part in many performance related workshops.

The thing I have been most impressed about in Carmel is the fact how much time you have to do your work and time to socialise as well.

After Carmel I hope to go to drama school and study performing arts, hopefully at RADA.

I feel that even if you’re on the edge about choosing to study performing arts you should still do it as I’ve spoken to a lot of people who say they regret not choosing it, and I’m not a typical person who would pick drama but I would have regretted it if I hadn’t chosen to study it.

Now studying Performing Arts (Acting) at UCEN Manchester

Jack Halewood

The Academy of St Nicholas

“I had a brilliant time at Carmel. My classes were full of great people who pushed me to reach my full potential.

After Carmel, I studied at ALRA for three years doing an acting course. My experience at ALRA was great. We focused on theatre acting for the majority of the course, the first year being mostly technique, be it physical or vocal, with a few hours a week being spent in front, or behind a camera, learning screen technique and developing an understanding of a set. I really took to the accent classes we had, which led really nicely onto Audio classes, where we learnt techniques for radio, commercials, video games etc. I’m now auditioning for jobs whilst living in London. I’ve worked with the BBC audio and recently finished voicing on an indie video game.”

Zac Lowe-McAlley, 2020 Alumnus

Gateacre