If your child loves being creative but you're not quite sure which class they would enjoy, the wonderful thing about PQA is that you don't have to decide. In fact, children often discover interests and aspirations they never knew they had once they start exploring all three classes.
Here’s a list of all three classes that we offer to show you exactly what a typical hour in each class could be like:
Every PQA session is split into three one-hour classes, giving young people the chance to get the full experience of Comedy & Drama, Musical Theatre and Film & Television every week.
Each discipline develops different skills, nurtures different strengths and encourages children to express themselves in new ways. Together, they provide a truly rounded performing arts education.
Comedy & Drama is where imagination takes centre stage. Students learn improvisation, physical theatre and character development, before creating and performing their own comedy and drama pieces.
It's an exciting space for children who love storytelling, enjoy making people laugh or delight in stepping into someone else's shoes. It's also where many children discover newfound confidence. Through playful, supportive activities that encourage them to speak up and share ideas, even the quietest students can find their voice.
For children who love to sing, dance and perform, Musical Theatre is often a natural fit.
Students develop vocal technique, learn choreography and explore performance skills while working together to bring songs and stories to life. There's plenty of energy, creativity and teamwork, as every performance relies on the commitment of the whole cast.
Children who are constantly humming tunes, dancing around the living room or dreaming of the excitement of the stage often thrive here. We have also had children who join for Comedy & Drama and Film & TV tell us that they didn’t realise at the time, but Musical Theatre is their most favourite class.
Film & Television is one of the things that makes PQA truly unique.
Led by professional filmmakers, these classes give students hands-on experience of the entire filmmaking process. From writing scripts and acting for camera to lighting, sound and directing, students learn how stories are brought to life on screen.
It's perfect for children who are full of ideas, love creating content or enjoy working behind the scenes as much as performing in front of an audience. As the UK's largest provider of film and television education for under-18s, PQA gives young people the opportunity to develop real industry skills in a fun and supportive environment.
The child who narrates every adventure, performs for family members and loves being the centre of attention may be drawn to Comedy & Drama.
The one who sings along to every song, choreographs routines in the kitchen and can't resist a catchy tune may fall in love with Musical Theatre.
Meanwhile, the child who spends hours creating stories, taking photos or making videos might discover their passion in Film & Television.
The beauty of PQA is that there is no pressure to predict which discipline will suit your child best. They are free to explore, experiment and find their own path.
At PQA, every student experiences all three disciplines every week.
That means a child who arrives wanting to act might discover their love of directing. A budding filmmaker could uncover a love of musical performance. A shy student may surprise themselves by stepping confidently into the spotlight.
By trying everything, children gain new skills, broaden their horizons and develop skills, interests and self-belief in ways they never expected. The simplest way to find out what sparks your child's imagination is to let them experience it for themselves
Yes! Every academy offers one free trial session, as long as there is space available in the age group. If the group is currently full, you can join the waiting list, and we’ll contact you as soon as a place becomes available.
PQA runs for 41 weeks throughout the school year. You can find the full list of term dates on each academy’s webpage, just search for your local academy and visit its web page.
PQA provides performing arts training for children and teens aged 4–18. Our Main Academy (ages 6–18) includes three core classes:
Some academies also offer Poppets (ages 4–6), an energetic 90-minute class introducing young children to singing, dancing and acting.
PQA welcomes all children, whether they’re complete beginners or already confident performers. There’s no audition needed to join.
At PQA students in Main Academy are grouped by age, learning with other children and young people at similar stages.
This depends on where you feel your child will be happiest. Some 6-year olds are ready to join the 6-9 age group in Main Academy, others will feel more comfortable starting in Poppets.
Your always welcome to discuss what’s best for your child with your local Principal before booking your free session.