Looking for drama classes for kids near you? The Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) runs weekend performing arts classes for children and young people aged 4 to 18 at over 160 academies across the UK. Every child trains across three disciplines each week: Comedy and Drama, Musical Theatre, and Film and Television. No experience needed, no auditions, and the first session is free.

What your child will learn

What your child will learn

  • Comedy and Drama: acting technique, improvisation, physical theatre and devising, the foundation of confidence on stage and off.

 

  • Musical Theatre: singing, dancing and acting combined, with choreography, script work and vocal skills.

 

  • Film and Television: industry-led filmmaking taught by professionals, from screenwriting to lighting, sound and performing to camera. PQA is the largest provider of film and TV education for under 18s in the UK.

Why parents choose PQA

  • Classes are built around confidence and self-belief, not just performance.

 

  • Project-based learning tailored to each age group, with a termly showcase.

 

  • A safe, inclusive space where every child is welcome, whatever their experience or background.

 

  • A free taster session so your child can try before you commit.
Why parents choose PQA

Ages and groups.

Find drama classes near you.

Our Academies.

PQA has academies in more than 160 towns and cities across the UK.

You can find us in :

Bristol , Glasgow , Nottingham , Leicester , Cardiff , Brighton , Leeds , Liverpool , Plymouth , Milton Keynes 

 Find your local academy and book a free taster session.

Academy Search >

 

Frequently asked questions.

 

Do you offer a free trial?

Yes, every academy offers one free taster session, subject to availability.


Does my child need experience?

No. We welcome everyone and never ask children to audition before joining.


What ages do you teach? 

Children and young people aged 4 to 18.


When are classes?

PQA operates mostly at weekends, across 39 weeks a year, with breaks during school holidays.