Jigsaw High Barnet launches at Queen Elizabeth Girl’s School

We are delighted to announce the launch of Jigsaw Performing Arts High Barnet, now running every Sunday morning at Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School. Our first sessions were filled with energy, creativity and confidence as students enjoyed a fantastic morning of singing, dancing and acting.

The school is proudly managed by Megan, an experienced Jigsaw manager who already runs two Jigsaw schools. High Barnet marks Megan’s third Jigsaw Performing Arts School, and she was thrilled to welcome new families on opening day. Megan had so much fun meeting students and parents, and it was wonderful to see how quickly everyone settled in. The enthusiasm and excitement in the classes made it clear that this is going to be a brilliant term ahead.

At Jigsaw Performing Arts High Barnet, children aged 3–18 years enjoy professional training in drama, singing and dance in a fun, supportive and welcoming environment. Each week, students develop key performance skills, grow in confidence and creativity, and make new friends. Whether your child dreams of performing on stage or simply wants to try something new, Jigsaw offers a nurturing space for every young performer to shine.

We’re proud to be based at Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School, right in the heart of High Barnet. With its bright, spacious facilities and community atmosphere, it’s the perfect home for our newest Jigsaw school.

Bookings are now open for our Spring Term starting January 2026, so now is the perfect time to come and join the fun. New students are always welcome, and families can take advantage of our two-week trial to experience the Jigsaw spirit first-hand.

To book your place or find out more, WhatsApp us on 0208 108 0374.

Join Jigsaw Performing Arts High Barnet and discover where every child takes centre stage through drama, singing and dance!

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TWO-WEEK TRIAL!

Dance classes for kids in Brockley, and much more!

Dance classes are a part of our 3 subject syllabus here at Jigsaw Brockley. We offer dance, singing and drama classes to children aged 3-18 on Saturday Mornings at Hatcham College, Pepys road site, SE14 5SF!

 

Children aged 3-4 and 5-6 attend a 90 minute session split into equal parts of dance, drama and singing classes. With a short break in between!

 

Teenagers and children aged 7+ enjoy a 3 hour session which rotates between the three subjects of drama, singing and dance, with a short break in the middle of the morning. 

 

All dance classes, drama classes and singing classes are taught by fully trained professionals that are also involved in the performing arts or creative industry.

 

Dance classes are a brilliant way to improve fitness and mental health in young people. 

 

Drama classes give children a sense of belonging and help improve speech and communication skills.

 

Singing classes improve confidence, create a community and improve skills with vocal volume and diction.

 

Jigsaw Brockley offer a two-week trial to new students so that your child can meet the team, their classmates and get used to the structure of our classes. If you decide that Jigsaw is you place to belong after the trial, you will be offered first choice to continue for the rest of the term. The two-week trial secures your place for the rest of the term!

 

Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Street, Hip Hop, Funky Disco and more genres are explored during the Dance classes at Jigsaw Brockley. Depending on the theme of the end of term performance, our students learn lots of new skills in dance every term!

 

Musical theatre and pop seem to be the favourite choices to dive into in the singing classroom. And our fantastic team of teachers write our Jigsaw Shows! 

 

To make sure every child receives a fantastic level of focus and attention, there is a maximum of 16 students in the Little Ones classes and 20 in the Main School.

 

There are no ‘main characters’ in a Jigsaw show! The scripts are written to suit the children’s individual needs and everyone gets their moment on stage.

 

If this sounds like something you would be up for exploring, head to our website to book a two-week trial!

Bookings for our Spring Term (January – March 2026) are now live on our website and available to book here -> https://www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk/franchise/brockley/classes

Nicola Lander looks back on 30 years of Jigsaw Performing Arts

So here we are today, 30 years on, and I can’t quite believe it!


This milestone, combined with having had some unexpected time to reflect, has given me the chance to look back on the journey, where it began, what I’ve learned, and what has carried me through.


Before I talk about Jigsaw, I want to go back one step further, to where my passion and purpose began.


I was once that shy little girl, hiding behind my mum’s skirt. My primary school teacher described me as both an introvert/extrovert, and when I found performing arts, everything changed. It gave me a character to step into, a place to grow my confidence, and a safe way to express myself. It gave me what we promise it can give our students at Jigsaw today.


As a teenager in Bristol, drama school was my dream but it felt like something other people did. People from London, not me. But I had Ali, my lovely weekend drama teacher who believed in me. She prepared me for auditions, encouraged me, and to my amazement, I got a place at Mountview.


From that moment, two lessons were planted deep within me:


1. The incredible power of performing arts.


2. The life-changing impact of someone believing in you.


Those two beliefs became the foundations of Jigsaw. They’ve carried me through three decades, from nurturing students, to later supporting franchisees, giving others the belief and opportunity to run their own business. And I’ll be honest: there were times I had to cling tightly to those beliefs, especially through the challenges. And there have been more than a few challenging moments in the last thirty years. But again and again, they’ve pulled me forward.


Because the truth is, it’s not just the highlights, though there have been some wonderful ones, like Jigsaw Youth Theatre Company performing on the stage of the Olivier. I cried so many proud tears that night. But it’s also the quieter moments, the times I knew something had to change.


Together, we’ve always risen to challenges with a solution focused mindset, making Jigsaw not just a workplace, but a place to belong.


After 16 years, we had 22 schools running from head office. On paper, it looked successful. But it didn’t feel right anymore. We couldn’t give the same level of personal service. That’s when I made the terrifying decision to go against our USP, “Jigsaw does not franchise”, and take the leap into franchising.


I was absolutely terrified. What if nobody wanted one? But someone did. And others followed. That’s when I learned: true growth happens when you step to the edge of your comfort zone, not miles outside it, just to the edge. That’s where you find progress.



Looking back, Jigsaw has grown not from one big leap, but from consistency:


· Taking small steps every day.
· Never standing still, always evolving.
· Staying aligned with my values.
· Keeping purpose at the heart of everything.
· Self awareness – know what you are good at and what you need help with.
· And treating every challenge as an opportunity to learn.

That’s what has brought us here today, 30 years later, with so many students, teachers, and franchisees carrying this vision forward.


So as we celebrate 30 years, let’s not just look back, let’s also look forward with courage. Let’s remember why we began, let’s hold onto our values, and let’s keep stepping to the edge of our comfort zones.


Because if the last 30 years have taught me anything, it’s this: with passion, purpose, and belief, we can achieve far more than we ever imagined.

Spotlight on Amy – Performing Arts Teacher!

Hi! I’m Amy, and I am thrilled to be part of the amazing Jigsaw team! I spend my Saturdays at both Jigsaw Watford and Jigsaw Hendon teaching performing arts to 3-18 year olds! Helping them grow in confidence and develop skills!

How did you first get into performing arts?

I started singing and dancing when I was very young! And I first started dance classes  when I was three years old. My love for musical theatre and performing came in Year 8 at school, when I joined the choir and started to take part in the school musicals!

 

What do you enjoy most about teaching at Jigsaw?

My favourite part is watching the children have fun every single week! Also, seeing the end result of what we’ve worked on together for the whole term. Watching every single one of them shine on stage in the shows we create is such a rewarding experience!

 

What do you enjoy outside of Jigsaw and performing?

I love going to the theatre, spending time with my family and friends and line dancing!!

What is your favourite role you’ve played and what is your dream role?

My favourite show I’ve been in is my most recent role, when I played Sue Snell in Carrie! My dream role is definitely Reno Sweeney from Anything Goes.

What advice would you give to children wanting to start performing arts?

Go for it! Even if it feels scary at first, we’ll show you how fun it really is! If you love singing, dance, or drama, there’s a place for everybody at Jigsaw!

Come and sign up for a two-week trial today!

Spotlight on Sophie! – Performing Arts Teacher at Bushey!

Hey! My name is Sophie, and I am thrilled to be part of the amazing Jigsaw team! I spend my Sunday mornings at Jigsaw Bushey teaching performing arts to the 3–6-year-olds! Helping them grow in confidence and develop skills!

How did you first get into performing arts?

I loved singing and dancing when I was very little, I was always dancing around the house and doing karaoke with my siblings! I decided to join a local performing arts school and absolutely loved it from day one! I loved how much performing gave me confidence and also helped me make new friends!

 

What do you enjoy most about teaching at Jigsaw?

The thing I love most about Jigsaw is seeing everyone’s smiley faces! I have missed all those cheeky smiles this summer, I absolutely can’t wait to be back singing and dancing with everyone soon!!

 

What do you enjoy outside of Jigsaw and performing?

I love going to the theatre, playing games and quizzes with my family, and going to the cinema with friends!!

What is your favourite role you’ve played and what is your dream role?

My favourite show I’ve been in is probably when I played Annie in ‘Annie’ One of my dream roles is Sophie in Mamma Mia, as I love ABBA!

What advice would you give to children wanting to start performing arts?

The more you put into it, the more you get out of it! So give everything a go, and don’t be scared to make mistakes!! If you love singing, dance, or drama, there’s a place for everybody at Jigsaw!

Come and sign up for a two-week trial today!

Spotlight on Bree! – Performing Arts Teacher Harpenden!

Hi! I’m Bree, and I spend my Sunday mornings at Jigsaw Harpenden teaching performing arts to the 3–6-year-olds! Helping them grow in confidence and develop skills!

What are you most looking forward to about show term?

The thing I’m most excited about for show term is just to continue to see these children grow in confidence as much as they have already!  It’s going to be so special watching them go from learning their lines and dances to then standing on stage in front of an audience! It’s going to be such a celebration and I’m so excited!

What other skills has performing arts given you?

Definitely confidence, in terms of speaking and presenting and just being myself. It’s taught me resilience, patience, and also to work as part of a team. Being able to lead is great, but being a part of that team is so so important. I think it’s a massive skill that all of us can really benefit from and help you in everyday life!

What is your favourite musical and dream role?

It has to be Wicked! I love the music, the moral of the story, the dancing, the characters, everything! It’s just so magical. I think it’s beautiful and my dream role is definitely Glinda! It’s been a dream world of mine since I was a little girl!

What’s your favourite thing about teaching at Jigsaw?

How imaginative my students are, they’re just so fearless! I just think it’s so gorgeous to see how their energy and enthusiasm is so infectious. It’s just amazing, and it’s such a joy to see and witness, they’re the reason I love teaching. The classes are beautiful! Come and sign up for a two-week trial today!

Spotlight on Sophie! – Performing Arts Teacher at Watford!

Hi! I’m Sophie, and I am thrilled to be part of the amazing Jigsaw team! I spend my Saturdays at Jigsaw Watford teaching performing arts to the 3–6-year-olds! Helping them grow in confidence and develop skills!



How did you first get into performing arts?


I started singing and dancing when I was very young! I was always singing around the house and making up dance routines! My older sister then started going to a local performing arts club, and I saw that she enjoyed it so much, so I decided to join too! I was only 6 when I started. I loved how much performing gave me confidence and also helped me make new friends!


What do you enjoy most about teaching at Jigsaw?


The thing I love most about Jigsaw is seeing everyone’s smiley faces! Every week, I get to see each child come into class and leave with the biggest smiles — and that makes me so so HAPPY!!!!


What do you enjoy outside of Jigsaw and performing?


I love going to the theatre, spending time with my family and grabbing an iced latte or a cheeky nandos with friends!!!



What is your favourite role you’ve played and what is your dream role?

My favourite show I’ve been in is probably when I played Nancy in Oliver! at Harrow Boys School. And my dream role is definitely Eponine in Les Misérables!



What advice would you give to children wanting to start performing arts?

Go for it! Even if it feels scary at first, we’ll show you how fun it really is! If you love singing, dance, or drama, there’s a place for everybody at Jigsaw!

Come and sign up for a two-week trial today!

Dance, Drama and Singing classes at Jigsaw Arts Schools

Singing, Dance and Drama classes at Jigsaw Arts Schools offer children aged 3-18 a fun and creative environment to discover their potential. Explore the world of the performing arts at a Jigsaw School near you this September!

Jigsaw Dance, Drama and Singing classes are available to book for the Autumn Term, with most schools starting in September 2025. With over 39 Jigsaw Schools across London, The Home Counties, Oxford and Wales there are plenty of opportunities to join in with the fun.

 

FIND A CLASS NEAR YOU

Find a Jigsaw Performing Arts School near you by clicking this link – JIGSAW ARTS CLASSES FINDER!

Jigsaw weekend Dance, Drama and Singing classes take place on Saturday and Sundays both with both morning and afternoon sessions available to book.

Every Jigsaw Performing Arts School welcomes children to find their place to belong. Many children join Jigsaw for a variety of reasons. Some to improve their performance skills, others to meet new friends and gain confidence. There is something for all children at Jigsaw!

 

YOU’RE IN GOOD HANDS!

Our Jigsaw School Owners strongly believe in the benefits of the performing arts, which is why Jigsaw has continued to grow as a high quality provider of children’s classes. Jigsaw Teachers are trained to create bespoke classes tailored to suit each child’s individual needs. Our friendly and professional team are expert at settling in new starters and helping each child on their journey into exploring the performing arts. All teachers either work or study in the performing arts, attend teacher training day and have a valid Enhanced DBS.

 

NOT JUST ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE

At Jigsaw, it is not just about the performance. It is about the journey of self-discovery, confidence building and making memories to last a lifetime. So why not book a two-week trial to discover if Jigsaw Arts is your place to belong? Enjoy Dance, Drama and Singing classes in a down to earth setting!

Drama, Dance and Singing; Jigsaw Ilford Classes Teach Skills for Life!

Drama, Dance & Singing – Jigsaw Ilford Classes Teach Skills for Life!

While the performing arts are often associated with stage lights and showbiz, at Jigsaw Performing Arts School Ilford, our mission goes far beyond the spotlight. We wholeheartedly embrace the energy and creativity of the stage. Jigsaw Ilford weekend classes in drama, dance, and singing are thoughtfully designed to do much more. They nurture imagination, build confidence, and develop essential life skills that benefit children in every area of their lives.


Each session is packed with fun and creativity! From stepping into character in drama, to mastering choreography in dance, and expressing emotion through singing. But beyond the excitement, our students are learning skills that will last a lifetime. Book your two-week trial here!

 

Drama classes help children explore emotions, build empathy, and become confident in self-expression. Whether they’re performing a script or improvising a scene, they’re learning to communicate with clarity and compassion.

Singing classes develop vocal confidence, breathing control, and self-discipline. Group singing also strengthens listening skills, teamwork, and a sense of shared accomplishment.

Dance classes improve coordination, physical awareness, and rhythm – while also teaching perseverance, focus, and the ability to work collaboratively toward a shared goal.

 

 

Throughout every performing arts class, we’re building vital life skills, including:

Teamwork! Learning to support, trust, and rely on one another while working as a group.

Communication! Expressing thoughts clearly, listening actively, and connecting with others.

Resilience & Problem-Solving! Adapting to the unexpected, thinking creatively, and staying confident in the face of challenges.

 

At Jigsaw Ilford, we’re not just helping children become confident performers, we’re helping them grow into well-rounded, resilient individuals. Whether your child dreams of the stage or simply wants a fun and supportive space to be creative, they’ll gain skills that go far beyond performance.

What’s more, we offer a two-week trial for new students! The perfect opportunity to give it a try before committing to the full term.

Jigsaw Performing Arts School Ilford takes place on Saturday afternoons at Valentines High School. 

We provide fun and engaging 90 minute sessions for 3-6 year olds and 3 hour sessions for 7 – 18 year olds.

Book your two-week trial here!

The Power of Performing Arts in Early Childhood – 3-6 years

What can we learn about the power of performing arts for children aged 3-6 years? When a child steps onto a stage, whether it’s a living room floor or a school hall, something magical happens. Their eyes brighten, their voice grows, and they begin to believe in themselves.

Performing arts in the early years aren’t just about learning lines or dance moves. At Jigsaw Ilford, our performing arts classes are about building confidence, empathy, and creativity. Through playful scenes and songs, our 3-6 years students learn to speak up, listen deeply, and see the world through someone else’s eyes.

A cardboard box becomes a castle. A scarf becomes a dragon’s tail. In the process, children discover the joy of imagination and the courage to share it.

Not every child will grow up to be an actor or dancer but every child deserves a space to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Jigsaw Performing Arts School in Ilford offers that safe stage, where effort is applauded, mistakes are embraced, and self-belief takes root.

We offer classes for children aged 3 and above. Our 3–4 and 5–6 year-old groups enjoy a 90-minute session of age-appropriate dance, drama, and singing, always with fun at the centre. When we spark a child’s imagination, we open the door to lifelong skills.

Valentines High School, Perth Road, Ilford
Saturdays, 2:30pm – 4:00pm


Two-week trial available. Book your spot today! – BOOK A TWO-WEEK TRIAL HERE!

Students aged 7 years + attend every Saturday from 3pm – 6pm.