Arabesque has been established as a part time school since 1992.
The Principal Cynthia Ryder opened the school following her training at the Italia Conti Theatre Academy. The school started with only fifteen pupils who attended classes in various church and village halls. As the school grew Cynthia realised that for the school to expand it needed a permanent home and in 1994 Arabesque moved into its own premises. The school very quickly grew to some 200 pupils and outgrew its first home within 18 months.
After a long search for suitable premises the school moved to its current location. Initially just on the first floor, however it became clear that as the school grew to some 450 students more space was needed, and in 2005 the opportunity arose to expand into the entire building.
With the school going from strength to strength and now having bigger premises, opening a full time stage school seemed a natural progression and in September 2006 the full time school opened with just 9 students.
We pride ourselves on a relaxed happy family like atmosphere making performing arts fun whilst still achieving a very high standard. All students are encouraged to take examinations and participate in performances. Full time students also work in a relaxed atmosphere where small classes benefit their learning. They broadly follow the national curriculum and work towards GCSE’s.