Impington International College Performance School students work with top industry professionals in virtual workshops​

Last week, Impington International College Performance School students took part in two unmissable virtual workshops led by West End actress Ellena Vincent, who most recently performed in Hamilton, and the second by Arts Educational Schools in London.

During the sessions, students were given the rare opportunity to perform a song or monologue for the associated artists and receive one to one feedback and guidance. The students also learnt a dance routine from the famous West End show.

Viv M., a student at the Performance School, said: “The workshop was energetic and inspiring. I really enjoyed the choreography and learning about the objective behind the movement as Elle took us through the story of Hamilton. Speaking to Elle afterwards was also really interesting as we were able to find out how life in the pandemic has affected actors like herself.”

Through the College’s Performance School, students who wish to further their careers in performing arts study the International Baccalaureate (IB) Career-related Programme (CP) and are taught by former and current industry professionals; learning first hand the important theory and research skills needed to succeed while undertaking a rigorous training programme, covering areas such as acting, dance and musical theatre.

Jane Milne, Director of Performance, Impington International College, said: “We are thrilled to be able to offer industry-led workshops to our students who are hoping to audition at vocational schools in the future. The feedback provided in the sessions will be vital for students making improvements which performers rarely get after an audition. The Performance School is a real passion of mine and something that all staff at Impington International College have worked hard to ensure that it is providing our students with the essential skills and disciplines needed for them to progress into the world of performing arts.”

As part of the CP, Performance School students at the College study an Extended BTEC in Performing Arts alongside a minimum of two IB Diploma Programme (DP) subjects. The College offers a range of performance-related courses including: Dance, Music and Theatre Arts.

Jane continued: “In addition to the sector-specific content, this programme provides our students with the opportunity to develop transferable skills such as self-confidence, self-presentation, personal discipline, time management and organisational skills; all essential skills for higher education and the world of work. In order to further prepare our students for Drama School and the professional world, we also offer a Level 4 Diploma, which is run in collaboration with Trinity College, London. Students studying this course undertake challenging dance, singing and acting classes alongside 1-2-1 help with audition pieces and there is also a strong emphasis on exploring and developing teaching skills. Ensuring that our students can achieve their dreams in a highly competitive setting is our total focus.”

For those wishing to study at the College from out of area, Impington International College offers host family accommodation. If you are interested in finding out more about post-16 options at Impington International College, you can book a 1:1 meeting with a senior member of staff to ask any questions that you may have. To do so, please get in touch via: international@ivc.tmet.org.uk.