A number of City of Westminster College’s Performing Arts students are working with Islington based theatre company Angel Shed. The Subsidiary and Extended Diploma students are taking on the roles of Creative Arts Practitioners, a voluntary position supporting children and young people from a variety of backgrounds with a wide range of needs to access Angel Shed’s inclusive theatre sessions. Taking part in all workshop activities, they will be encouraging the members and giving them the support they need, as well as performing in the final productions alongside the children and acting as positive role models.

“Placements like this are important because students are working with a grass roots community theatre charity and it opens up the professional community theatre sector for them,” said Joanne Merritt, Angel Shed’s Community Outreach Inclusive Support Officer. “It provides them with invaluable experience with children and young people, allowing them to have the space to lead activities, perform, learn new and creative means of communicating with others in a safe and supported space as well as gaining child protection and inclusive theatre training.”

Angel Shed is an inclusive theatre company who, for the last 12 years, have been delivering workshops and productions for children and young people in Islington. Participants are given the opportunity to take part in dance, drama and music, with their vision being that every child, regardless of ability or background be given the opportunity to take part in the performing arts. 

“Two years ago some of our students took on opportunities with Angel Shed and they approached us this year to offer current students some work experience,” said Daniel Thompson, Lecturer and Advanced Practitioner for the Creative Industries at CWC. “Every student was keen to take on a role after meeting with and hearing more about the company. They’re working with teenagers as well as younger children, some with physical and learning difficulties, so it gives them a unique opportunity to get involved in community arts and work with young people.”

“At Angel Shed we do open doors if students want to gain experience in other theatre fields too, such as working backstage on a show, shadowing the technicians with lighting and sound, assisting with costumes and arts administration. All of the CWC students we’ve worked with so far have been great and very professional,” added Joanne.