Alexandra Palace Performing Arts School
Alexandra Palace Performing Arts School provides world-class performing arts training for 7–18 year-olds at London’s iconic Ally Pally.
Under the guidance and support of industry professionals, students learn to act, sing and dance in a safe and inclusive environment, empowering them to grow in confidence, build new relationships, and let their talent shine. At the end of the year they’ll have the chance to perform on our very own stages.
Each term will run over the course of 10 Saturdays, 9:30am – 1pm. The Summer term runs from 26 April – 5 July 2025 with a break at half term.
Need support with payment? Speak to a member of the Performing Arts School team to discuss payment plan options: visitor.services@alexandrapalace.com / 020 8365 4343
26 Apr 2025
Ally Pally Little Stars – Summer Term
26 Apr 2025
Ally Pally Shooting Stars – Summer Term
26 Apr 2025
Ally Pally Supernovas – Summer Term
FAQs
Does my child need previous training?
No, the programme is for all regardless of current skill levels.
Is there an audition process? Do you need prior skills or experience?
No, there is no audition process.
Will there be opportunities to perform to an audience?
Yes! At the end of each term, we aim to create an informal showcase of the students work, including a performance in our gorgeous Victorian theatre at the end of the academic year.
Is there a uniform?
No, we just ask that students wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing with sensible footwear so they can fully participate in all classes, including dance.
Can you attend just singing/acting/dancing classes?
No, students have to attend all classes. We believe that focusing on all three disciplines is good for building confidence, working in collaboration and resilience. However, teachers are conscious that this can be challenging for some people, and shape classes to make students comfortable and reassured whilst also stretching them.
Are all the tutors DBS checked?
Yes, all tutors are DBS checked and our safeguarding policy is published online.
Where do we meet?
The classes take place across the Palace and are subject to change. However, we always meet in the East Court for drop off and pick up. You will find a member of the Performing Arts team outside of the Creativity Pavilion opposite the Visitor Services desk. Classes start at 9.30am, so please drop your child off from 9.15am and pick them up when classes finish at 1pm.
What do you need to bring?
We provide scripts, props, song sheets and anything needed for classes. Most students arrive with packed lunches for break times, and a water bottle. We encourage you to travel light as students move throughout the building.
How big are class sizes?
We provide one tutor per 15 students. If the class exceeds this number, then we provide a teaching assistant. No class will exceed 30 studaents.
My child has additional needs. Do you offer further help?
Yes, please make us aware of any additional needs when making an enquiry about the school. As much information as possible is extremely useful for the teaching team. If necessary, we would explore providing 1-2-1 support. All students are welcome.
What does an average class feel like?
All teachers are industry trained and where possible we encourage them to continue working in their fields. Classes will contain a mixture of skills learning, repetitive training and games. The emphasis is working collaboratively and developing students’ soft skills in building confidence, negotiating with others, developing creativity and teamwork.
Will my child get an agent?
We sometimes get enquiries from casting agents and might make guardians aware of industry opportunities. However, the core focus of the school is being creative and having fun.
Is there homework?
There might be some minimal line learning but we try to contain classes to Saturday mornings – the aim is for participants the unleash their creativity and have fun.
Is there a half term?
Yes, we try to follow the school timetable where possible, but as a complex cultural organisation this can sometimes be challenging.
How do I raise concerns?
The Performing Arts team are available at the beginning and end of each session. Many guardians use this as an opportunity to ask questions. The Head of School is available by email mark.civil@alexandrapalace.com or contact joanna.mead@alexandrapalace.com, Creative Learning Producer.
Can I attend as a parent?
Parents are welcome to sit in on sessions and we try to dedicate one session a year where parents are invited to come in and observe.
Is there an open day?
There isn’t an official open day, but we are happy to offer a taster session for free for anyone who would like to experience a class before committing.
