The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts Is Coming To Nantwich
Picture the scene: our TFM team is settling in at the office, ready to start a new day of planning articles for 3.0, when an email arrives with a "ping" (or whatever an email sounds like). Let’s skip to the good bit. The email read, "I just wanted to touch base with you as I came across your magazine whilst doing some research, and we love what you stand for! I'm emailing today from The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts head office because we're opening a brand-new weekend performing arts academy in Nantwich this September." After the high-fiving had finished and we composed ourselves, it was time to call the team at PQA and find out more.
Lights, Camera, Action! — Nantwich is getting a new performing arts academy!
Why Nantwich?
"I live in Nantwich, and I love the town," says Jenny Berrisford, the Principal behind the new PQA Nantwich. "I think it would be fabulous to have a PQA here. The town’s charm and vibrant community make it the perfect spot for our academy." Jenny is enthusiastic about the performance opportunities that PQA Nantwich will bring, including shows at The Crewe Lyceum and even trips to perform on the West End stage.
Jenny's Journey with PQA
Jenny’s journey with PQA began eight years ago as a Film and TV teacher. "I fell in love with making wild films and helping students tell their stories through cinema," she says. After four years of making exciting films, she was offered the role of Principal of PQA Chester in 2021. Since then, she has produced incredible films, shows, musicals, and plays, providing students with unique performance opportunities and helping them grow in confidence.
Performance Expertise
When not at PQA, Jenny is a professional filmmaker and actress. She has performed nationwide, acted in numerous adverts, and worked behind the camera as a director, camera operator, and producer. With a 1st Class Degree in Media and Performance from the University of Salford and a Masters in Film, TV, and Production from The University of Birmingham, Jenny brings a wealth of experience. She has worked with the BBC, ITV, Into Film, and the British Film Institute, creating award-winning shorts with young people across the UK.
PQA Nantwich's Ethos
"PQA Nantwich will be a warm and welcoming place to support every student," Jenny says. "We aim to build students' confidence and love of themselves and their ideas through performing arts." The academy will be a fun and exciting place for students to develop their creativity, whether they dream of performing on the West End stage, becoming a movie director, or simply making new friends.
The Importance of the Arts
Jenny believes the arts are crucial for humanity and young people's well- being. "I love being a Principal; it's the best job in the world. Watching a nervous student gain confidence and participate fully in our sessions is the most rewarding experience," she shares. PQA has changed many lives, helping students believe in themselves and their abilities. Jenny loves making films and producing shows, creating magical memories for PQA students.
What Makes PQA Different?
PQA stands out because it offers more than just Musical Theatre. Alongside singing, dancing, and acting, students engage in Comedy and Drama, learning scripted work, improvisation, and stand-up comedy. In the Film and TV module, they explore screen writing, camera work, lighting, costume, makeup, and more, making a different movie every few weeks. Students see their ideas come to life on the big screen at red- carpet cinema events. "PQA offers so many opportunities and experiences, and I love that!" Jenny exclaims.
What is PQA?
Founded by Pauline Quirke MBE and her husband Steve in 2007, the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts aims to help young people realize their full potential through a diverse spectrum of performing arts. With over 200 academies, this ethos remains central. PQA believes every young person has something unique to offer and strives to bring out the best in each student.
Confidence Boosting and Creativity
Building confidence and developing performance skills are key reasons children join PQA. Performing arts in a safe, encouraging environment helps young people build self-belief and try new things. PQA nurtures their creativity, which positively impacts mental health, boosts self-esteem, and fosters connections with others.
Connecting with Others
The performing arts industry relies heavily on teamwork. PQA students learn to work within groups, share common goals, and form strong bonds with peers. This experience deepens empathy and compassion, benefiting them in all aspects of life.
Find Out for Yourself
PQA offers a monthly fixed cost of £92 (£69 for siblings and £46 for ages 4 & 5), including the first t-shirt for free. Open for 41 weeks of the year, students can enrol at any time and try a full session for free. If you're in Nantwich and have a budding performer at home, check out the new PQA academy. It’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss!
07925 000 220 | jenny.berrisford@pqacademy.com
Malbank School & Sixth Form College, Welsh Row, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5HD
