Author: Jigsaw Office

Jigsaw Comes to Plumstead!

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

Plumstead is a busy London suburb just south of the Thames. It boasts itself as the birth place many a famous name including Blue and Eastenders star Lee Ryan, former JLS band member Martin Humes, and if you go back far enough, is even mentioned in the Domesday Book! But something big is on the horizon – that’s right, you’ve guessed it! Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools is coming to Plumstead!

We are so excited to be able to share the joy of the performing arts with so many more young people, and who better to tell us all about it than the school’s manager and franchisee Hannah Potter.

What sparked your interest in the Performing Arts?

When I was little I loved to sing, dance and act along to my favourite Disney films. Every Saturday morning, I would be in the living room performing away. When I was in my last year of primary school, I was given the main role of Joseph in our production of Joseph and the Technicoloured Dream Coat. The feeling this gave me was immeasurable and that was it, I understood then that performing meant something very special to me. I was so proud when my family came to watch, and it was such a great experience performing alongside all of my friends.

What was it that drew you to Jigsaw?

I applied for a job at Jigsaw Arts in 2013. I felt so strongly connected to their ethos that we can build young people’s confidence and happiness through the performing arts. When looking through their website and seeing all of the different performances they did, how excited the children were, and also the network of schools across London and the Home Counties, I was totally impressed! I thought I would love to work for them! Jigsaw has always had such a professional but extremely fun work ethic, which is just the balance you need. Ever since my first day until now, I have felt extremely lucky to be a part of such a nurturing and supportive company. This filters down to our teachers and students every weekend and in each performance, it is a hub of creativity, excitement and so much fun.

Singing, Dancing or Drama? Which is your favourite?

I have always had a passion for singing, but I have to say I really love all three! In some ways they all intertwine but you have so many differing skills you can learn from each. Performing a song, dance or scene on stage has always given me the greatest buzz and seeing this in our students, is one of the heart-warming experiences.

What will your Jigsaw school bring to the people of Plumstead?

Jigsaw Plumstead will bring a performing arts school for the community! A happy, nurturing and exciting place in which our students can really find themselves. Somewhere that not only supports our students in their singing, dance and drama skills but in their life skills! Professional shows and presentations for all ages that really pack the fun and teaches them something new about the performing arts every term! Technique terms where we can explore so many different genres of dance, music and acting.

Working with our imaginations, props and technology to create a very well-rounded idea of all the different styles of performing! Meeting and making friends with people who you wouldn’t have otherwise met, from our local schools to further afield. A memorable school, which supports our students if they would like to take the performing arts more seriously in life. A set of skills which can be used not only for life but jobs and careers. Jigsaw Plumstead will bring a place to belong for all our students and somewhere for them to thrive.

What do you hope to inspire in the young people who will attend your school?

That there isn’t anything or anyone you cannot be. That you have so much power! You are unique, brilliant and have the confidence to shine brightly in all areas of your life. To love the performing arts! To use the performing arts as a tool in each and every day in order to support you in becoming the very best of yourself that you can be.

Classes for 3 – 4 and 5-6 year olds are starting on Sunday mornings at Plumstead Manor High School on the 5th of May 2019, with classes for 7-18 year olds starting in September 2019. To enquire or to book your child’s place please contact Hannah on 020 8003 3275 or email plumstead@jigsaw-arts.co.uk. Visit Jigsaw Plumstead for more information.

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page. 

Jigsaw comes to Oxford!

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

The beautiful and historic city of Oxford will soon be home to a brand new Jigsaw school! We took the chance to ask Becky, the manager and franchisee of Jigsaw Oxford, all about her Jigsaw journey…

 

Jigsaw Oxford

Jigsaw Oxford
What sparked your interest in the Performing Arts?

Old musicals! I am mad on them. I grew up watching Rodgers and Hammerstein movies on repeat. I used to try and copy all of the songs and dances and eventually my mum sent me out to ballet just to get a bit of peace. I was quite shy when I was young but the stage was a place where I felt very comfortable and where I was able to express myself. I could be loud, funny, as silly as I like and it was brilliant.

 

What was it that drew you to Jigsaw?

I was a Jigsaw teacher back when I lived in London and was working as a performer. Being part of the Jigsaw family was an amazing experience. It is because of them I realised just how much I loved working with young people and I am really grateful for that, it changed the direction my life took. Eventually I moved away from London, travelled the world and had some adventures and ended up settling down in lovely Oxford, but always missed being part of the Jigsaw family. So when the opportunity came to open my own school I jumped at it.

 

Singing, Dancing or Drama? Which is your favourite?

This one is tough. I first trained in Musical Theatre and I absolutely love to dance, especially tap, and I still dance for fun. I ended up also going on to drama school and training and working as an actor. I truly love them both. Although you are more likely find me watching a play these days over a musical…

 

What will your Jigsaw school bring to the people of Oxford?

I think Jigsaw is brilliant! Jigsaw offers a place for young people to come and be themselves. That is so important for all of us! I wanted to create a place where no one is left out, and everyone has the chance to shine. That is really what Jigsaw is about and I am so proud to be part of that.

 

What do you hope to inspire in the young people who will attend your school?

To be confident in who they are. To know that it’s OK to be different – that’s what keeps things interesting. To be brave performers who take chances and create exciting work. To learn how amazing it feels to be part of an team and welcome others with open arms. To be proud of what we create at Jigsaw Oxford!

Classes for 3-18 year olds start on Saturday mornings at Oxford Academy on the 18th of January 2020. To enquire or to book your child’s place please contact Becky on 01865 564580 or email ox****@ji*********.uk. Visit Jigsaw Oxford for more information.

Jigsaw Chelmsford Turns 5! 

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

Abbie from Jigsaw Chelmsford reflects on her time as a Jigsaw Franchisee, as her school turns 5 this term!

 

“I cannot believe how fast the 5 year mark has come around- it feels like I only opened the school yesterday! I can still remember how nervous I was on the first day of opening Jigsaw Chelmsford, but as soon as the customers began to arrive my nerves slipped away.

 

I have always felt a sense of privilege that people choose to send their wonderful children to my school. It has been a very eventful 5 years with building a new school, navigating the business through covid and most importantly building a Jigsaw community in Chelmsford.

 

jigsaw-chelmsford-turns-5-blog-students

An image from the ‘Little Ones’ class at Jigsaw Chelmsford.

 

For me, the highlights of the last 5 years have been creating our wonderful shows each year, seeing my students make new friends, and the performing arts fun we had during the holiday workshops.

 

jigsaw-chelmsford-show

An image from the Jigsaw Chelmsford Summer School show.

 

I am so proud of my school, the staff, the students and the community we have built in the last 5 years.

 

abbie-teaching-team-jigsaw-chelmsford-turns-5

Abbie and her wonderful teaching team at Jigsaw Chelmsford.

 

The support from Jigsaw Arts and their team has motivated me to reach for the stars with my business! I love working with like-minded, creative individuals who are student focused with their own businesses. Jigsaw truly has given me the place where I belong.”  – Abbie, Jigsaw Chelmsford

 

Abbie has decided to open up a second Jigsaw school in Brentwood, Essex. Jigsaw Brentwood will be opening its doors this September 2023.  We can’t wait for the launch of Abbie’s new business!

 

Find out more about the classes at Jigsaw Chelmsford here.

The Jigsaw Chelmsford Summer Camp Guide

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

The summer holidays are finally here and even though our weekend schools are on break, Jigsaw Chelmsford and many other Jigsaw branches are opening their doors for one very special week this summer to continue to bring the Jigsaw Joy to our students. Abbie from Jigsaw Chelmsford has shared a Jigsaw Chelmsford summer camp guide so that we know what to expect!

 

What to expect from the Jigsaw Chelmsford Summer Camp!

 

Jigsaw Chelmsford is no stranger to a holiday workshop, this will be our fourth year running a summer school! This year’s theme is “Jigsaw at the Carnival” with previous years including “Jigsaw at the Movies”, “Jigsaw at the Musicals” and “Jigsaw at the Circus”.

 

jigsaw-arts-slide-into-summer-student-dancing

Slide Into Summer!

 

What do our week-long summer camps involve?

 

During the summer holidays at Jigsaw, we provide a full week’s worth of performing arts fun where your child will learn, rehearse and perform a show lead by our specialist trained and DBS checked teachers.

 

Our mornings start at 9am with registration, leading into fun vocal and physical warm-ups and lots of fun games. We then continue the morning with singing, dance and drama workshops tailored to our theme and the show content that is written by our workshop director. After lunch, we continue working on our show, as well as enjoying arts and crafts sessions where the students create set pieces and props for the show. Before home-time at 3:30pm, we sneak in even more games that help solidify friendships and we also introduce a variety of confidence building activities. At the end of the week, we invite friends and family along to watch the wonderful performance created by students and staff (this is our favourite part!).

 

Jigsaw Chelmsford’s summer camp will take place at the Hampton’s Leisure centre from the 22nd until the 26th of August 2022. There is still time to book so be sure to secure your place to avoid any disappointment!

 

Get in touch with Jigsaw Chelmsford Manager Abbie to book your spot on 01245 768154 or email chelmsford@jigsaw-arts.co.uk. 

 

For more information on Jigsaw’s holiday workshops, visit our website here.

Jigsaw Chelmsford Easter Camp 2024!

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools Chelmsford Easter Camp for children aged 5-16 is going to be so much fun!

Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools Chelmsford are hosting a Jigsaw Easter Camp

for children aged 5-16!

Hampton’s Leisure Centre Chelmsford

9:00am – 3:30pm

Tuesday 2nd April – Thursday 4th April 2024!

Learn, rehearse and perform a show to your friends and family!

Jigsaw holiday camps are the perfect way to learn new skills in singing, dance and drama, make new friends and perform! This year’s theme will explore a variety of different musical classics through the ages, for your young person to sing and dance their heart out to!

Jigsaw-chelmsford-easter-holiday-camp-2024-essex-performing-arts-1

What to expect at a Jigsaw Easter Camp?

A full day of performing arts fun! Students are divided into appropriate age groups and take part in dance, drama and singing activities that lead to an end of the week show. There will be a balance between show rehearsals and fun activities and games that will ensure your child has a memorable holiday with an opportunity to make new friends.

What do I need to bring to a Jigsaw Easter Camp?

Comfortable clothing that is easy to move in and appropriate shoes or trainers for dance. A full packed lunch that does not need to be refrigerated, a refillable bottle for water and LOTS of energy!

How do I book?

Email Abbie – Chelmsford@Jigsaw-arts.co.uk or WhatsApp/call 01245 768154 to learn more and book your place!

Escape the rain with our Easter Camp and take to the stage! Our holiday workshops are hugely popular amongst children who attend our weekend schools as well as children who are joining Jigsaw for the very first time

Jigsaw Bushey Show Day 2023!

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

 

Jigsaw Performing Arts School Owner Katie shares her experience of the end of term Jigsaw Bushey show day…

 

We spoke to Jigsaw Bushey Franchisee Katie to learn more about the day…

“Earlier this month, the 7+ year old students at Jigsaw Bushey performed ‘The Fallen Hero’ to an audience of friends and family for their end of term show. And it was a massive success! Myself and the team at Jigsaw Bushey are beyond proud of all of the students!

The great thing about the Bushey Academy, where we perform our end of term shows at Jigsaw Bushey, is that it has the most divine theatre. It’s gorgeous. With the lighting and atmosphere, it really does feel like a professional experience for the kids.

Offering the students this experience is so magical. Throughout the term they rehearse in a different space and they don’t actually see the theatre until the big day. It’s the biggest challenge and the most exciting part of it all.

There’s a backstage room where we get everyone all warmed up. Making sure we’ve got our face gems and glitter to spray on! Once costumes are ready to go, we get straight onto the stage to rehearse and perform! And at that point, you know, the kids, especially if it’s their first time performing, and they see how big the audience will be, it does get really, really exciting.

We had a lovely technician called Anna who did our lighting and sound. And an interesting story about Anna, is that she started with us as a Jigsaw teaching assistant! She now works professionally in the industry doing mainly sound. So I got her on board to be our technician for the morning, and it was really lovely to see her again.

When it comes to the show itself, it is so exciting. The hustle and bustle! The theatre was jam -packed, completely full. Backstage, we have three members of staff to support the students. We’ve got someone in the dressing room, one along the corridor getting the kids to and from the stage and then one person backstage.

Our lovely dance teacher Kim has the students repeat lots of positive affirmations to each other every week, and we did this before the show. When we are preparing the students to perform, we believe in the importance of encouragement and empowerment!

The students perform their best when they are in this positive space. Scaring them with “if you don’t know your lines, you’re going to be on stage and you look silly” is not what we do!

Kim is really good at getting the kids together and empowering them by saying things like “you are amazing! Tell me, I am amazing!” and they proudly repeat it and say it to the person next to them etc. And this is so special.

The process of show day this year felt like such teamwork. Every group coming together with positivity, and for the kids to support each other on stage and know that they’ve got each other’s backs is invaluable. You know, the theatre world is all about coming together as a cast!

I am really looking forward to next years show, bring on 2024!” – Katie, Jigsaw Bushey

Learn more about the classes at Jigsaw Bushey here.

Bexleyheath Kids – 10 years of Jigsaw!

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

When I visited the Jigsaw Bexleyheath kids on the first day of the Spring term it was a cold, damp morning, however, as I pulled up in the school’s car park with parents busying themselves with coats and buggies, I could sense that there was excitement in the air! Kate, the school’s manager had already arrived, her desk in the reception area beautiful set up, Jigsaw banners at the ready with both her children ready to assist the new customers congregating at the door.

 

Jigsaw Bexleyheath blog

 

 

I quickly realised as I stood with the growing throng of parents and students that this was the magic ingredient that made this school, this particular Jigsaw school special – it has a wonderful family feel.

Many of the customers have been enjoying Performing Arts classes at Jigsaw Bexleyheath for years and it’s not hard to see why. As another new student and her parent stepped up for registration Kate leant over the desk with a calm reassuring smile. She introduced herself to her young customer and explained the order of the day. She took her time, answered all the questions and made sure that everyone, parent and child included were ready for their first class.

Kate has been managing Bexleyheath for 8 years. She joined Jigsaw in 2004 as a class assistant and soon progressed from there to teacher, then manager. She knows each of her students by name and can reel off their achievements at a drop of a hat. Under her guidance Jigsaw Bexleyheath has grown! The Little Ones classes are bursting at the seams, whilst in the Main School the slightly smaller class sizes mean that each student gets more attention, time to focus on their skills and develop as group. We spoke to a few Bexleyheath kids about their time at Jigsaw…

 

“It’s a really friendly environment”

“It’s a really friendly environment,” says Adam, as I chat to some of the Group 3 students during the break. Others around him nod in agreement.

“And it’s a place where you can be yourself and express yourself comfortably,” adds Kara, a fellow Group 3 student. “We’re involved in what we get to do, we give suggestions and work with other students that we wouldn’t have otherwise got to know.”

This team ethos becomes clear when I get to sit in on Group 3’s drama lessons. On this particular day they are playing a game called “why are you late?” The rules are simple: a student enters the class and another student acting as a teacher asks them “why are you late?”, the rest of the class must then act out a predetermined answer through mime behind the teacher’s back.

The student who is ‘late’ must work out what their friends are miming! These answers can range from the mundane to the fantastical and are ultimately hilarious! What’s wonderful is to see young people working together and being creative. They laugh and joke as teenagers do but when it comes to working as a class, they are all open to each other’s suggestions.

“They are all so wonderful,” says Kate, during the break, “last term (Christmas) they organised a Secret Santa between themselves and brought in gifts for each other on the last day. I’m so proud of how they have come together as a group.”

Next is singing. Alex, an experienced Jigsaw teacher, is no stranger to the challenges of a technique term. Her classes are fun, engaging and peppered with enough technicality that balances the new and experienced students so that everyone feels ready to step up to the challenge. She deftly harnesses each group discussion and the group moves methodically from topic to topic, exercise to exercise.

I can see that with each scale and trill Alex is quietly assessing their strengths, working out where to push them, where to offer guidance. As they move on to the songs I watch as the class listen to all the options for this term and consider the challenges of each one carefully. “We will vote” says Alex, “everyone loves a vote!” It is then I decide to rejoin Kate at reception.

As I retrace my steps across the outside walkway, I catch myself reminiscing about my own experience of the performing arts as a young child and teenager. I realise that today I witnessed a small snap shot, back in time, of all the fun that I had experienced all those years ago. “There you are” says Kate, dragging me from my thoughts as I enter the warm reception area. She is holding a piece of paper. “Look at this. I thought I would sit down and work this out for you. I knew it was a lot.” She hands it to me. On it a list of names and figures and at the bottom it totals 80 years.

“Group 3 have years of collective Jigsaw experience.” She says, “isn’t that something worth writing about?” I agree, it’s absolutely something to write about and to be immensely proud of. The fact that these students have been so committed to Jigsaw is a sign that Kate and the team at Bexleyheath are doing everything right. Jigsaw’s ethos is to create an environment where young people can develop their performance skills, their self-expression and build their confidence and can ultimately thrive. From what I’ve seen, I can say hand on heart that that they are doing exactly that.

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page. 

Jigsaw Balham & Abstract Kids – Summer Camp 2024!

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

Get ready to turn your summer into a stage-worthy spectacle because Jigsaw Arts Balham Summer Camp is on! Transforming those school holiday blues into a symphony of fun and creativity.

This summer, brace yourselves for a performing arts workshop that’s more than just a camp – it’s a show-stopping experience your little ones won’t forget!

Week 1: Monday 29th July – Friday 2nd August

Week 2: Monday 5th August – Friday 9th August

9am – 3.30pm, ages 5-16

At Chestnut Grove Academy, Balham, SW12 8JZ

Picture this: a summer where laughter echoes through the halls, where budding performers discover their talents, and where creativity takes centre stage. Jigsaw Arts Balham is pulling out all the stops to create a summer workshop that is unforgettable.

First things first, let’s talk about the team behind the scenes. Jigsaw Arts Balham has curated a dream team of seasoned performing arts professionals who are not just instructors but passionate mentors, ready to nurture the star power within each child. From acting to singing to dancing, consider your kiddos in the best hands possible.

Jigsaw Arts Balham has teamed up with the incredible minds behind Abstract Kids, and together, they’re set to create a summer school in 2024 that promises to be nothing short of magical!

Now, you might be wondering, who are these Abstract Kids and what makes them so special? Abstract Kids is the brainchild of two Jigsaw Arts alumni, Jake and Jason, who, fuelled by their passion for drama and education, embarked on a unique journey to Thailand. Taking their wealth of experience (cumulatively 12 years between them as both students and as Jigsaw teachers), they set out to create a drama company that caters specifically to kids. And let me tell you, they’ve succeeded in creating something truly extraordinary. This dynamic duo not only share a love for the stage but also a deep understanding of the transformative power of drama in a child’s life. Abstract Kids has quickly become a beacon for young talents, nurturing creativity and building confidence in children through the magical world of theatre.

Fast forward to 2024, and these Jigsaw alumni are back in town, bringing the essence of Abstract Kids with them. Partnering with Jigsaw Arts Balham for a summer school collaboration, they’re set to infuse the vibrant spirit of Abstract Kids into the heart of Balham.

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of the workshop itself. Jam-packed with a whirlwind of activities, our summer programme promises a blend of drama, singing, arts and crafts, and dance that’ll have your little ones tapping their toes and belting out tunes. It’s not just about learning the ABCs of performing arts; it’s about discovering the XYZs of self-expression and confidence. From acting and improv workshops to stagecraft and storytelling, the curriculum is designed to ignite the imaginations of young minds. And let’s not forget the grand finale – a showcase on the Fridays that will bring together the talents of Jigsaw Arts Balham and the unique flavour of Abstract Kids. Get ready to witness a performance that will have you on the edge of your seat and bursting with pride at the incredible skills your child has acquired in just a week.

And here’s the best part: no experience required! Whether your child is a seasoned performer or just looking to try something new, the Jigsaw Arts Balham workshop is designed to cater to all skill levels. It’s not about perfection; it’s about embracing the journey and relishing every moment in the limelight.

So, Balham families, are you ready to witness your child’s summer sparkle with creativity? Jigsaw Arts Balham is your ticket to a summer filled with laughter, learning, and the pure joy of performance.

Secure your spot, mark your calendars, and get ready for a summer your little stars will be talking about for years to come! 

Jigsaw Arts Summer Camps return!

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

Jigsaw Arts Summer Camps return, with a week of theatrical fun! Jigsaw Arts summer camps are the perfect way to take to the stage during the school holidays. Whether your child already attends our weekend performing classes or has never tried anything like this before, you will be amazed to discover the benefits of a Jigsaw summer camp.

 

 

 

Our summer camps are hugely popular. Taking place during various weeks throughout the summer holidays, it is always a major highlight of the Jigsaw calendar! In much the same way as our weekend classes, our week-long summer camps for children help build confidence and social skills, meet new friends, and have lots of fun. We are so excited to have the summer camps return!

 

A morning workshop runs for 3-5 year olds, and an all-day workshop runs for 5-16 year olds! Children are divided into appropriate age bands to ensure they receive the right level of focus and fun challenges. Get involved with singing, dance and drama classes, friendship making games, arts and crafts and perform to friends and family!

 

Find your nearest venue from the list below and click through for more details and contact information.

 

Summer Camps Return 2022!

 

25th – 29th July 2022

Jigsaw Balham

Jigsaw Barnet

Jigsaw Bexleyheath

Jigsaw Brockley

Jigsaw Cardiff West

Jigsaw Teddington

Jigsaw Watford

 

1st – 5th August 2022

Jigsaw Cardiff West

Jigsaw Finchley

Jigsaw Hendon 

Jigsaw Ilford

Jigsaw Oxford

 

8th – 12th August 2022

Jigsaw Harrow

Jigsaw Hemel Hempstead

 

15th – 19th August 2022

Jigsaw Harlow

 

22nd – 26th August 2022

Jigsaw Stevenage

 

Not sure where your closest summer camps are? Use our venue finder and select ‘Holiday Camps’!

 

Jigsaw Agency Workshop Day

Posted on by Jigsaw Office

 

agency workshop 2017

 

We would like to invite Jigsaw students to join us for an Agency Workshop afternoon on Sunday 9th July 2017 at The Actors Centre, London.

 

An understanding of the audition process

The afternoon will be an exciting and insightful workshop to give the children a better understanding of what the audition process is like once you are a member of the Jigsaw Arts Agency.

The acting industry is extremely competitive and children often only have a couple of minutes to impress casting directors in their audition. We want to ensure that our Jigsaw students are well equipped for when auditions do come along, so that they feel prepared and confident in what they are doing. The rest, as we know, is down to a bit of luck and being in the right place at the right time.

Assisting with the workshop afternoon is Carrie Whitton, who is a current Jigsaw Teacher and regularly works within the acting industry. As an actor, Carrie played Twinkle in the Number 1 UK Tour of Dinner Ladies by Victoria Wood, appeared alongside Sheridan Smith in the feature film Powder Room, Secret Cinema’s Back to the Future, ‘The Musketeers’ at the Liverpool Echo Arena, Cirxus at the Arcola Theatre and the Olivier nominated Alice’s Adventures Underground’ with Les Enfants Terribles.

Carrie and myself (Katie) will be leading the children through a series of workshops in acting, singing and dance. In order to cover as many audition scenarios as possible, we will send your child a short script and song to learn prior to the workshop. We then invite parents to come along at 5pm for a Q and A. We would appreciate it if you could email any questions across in advance so that we can save time on the day and ensure we answer all your questions.

 

Book a place

For more details, please email agency@jigsaw-arts.co.uk.

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We ask that you confirm your child’s place by e-mail by Friday 23rd June as spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.

 

Find out more

To find out more about Jigsaw’s agency, visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk/agency.