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Oh, what a beautiful morning for Jigsaw Streatham’s opening day!

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Wow! What a day!

Sunday 21st September marked the very first day of classes at Jigsaw Performing Arts Streatham at Bishop Thomas Grant school, and we were absolutely blown away by the incredible response from local families. Nearly 50 families came through our doors to celebrate the launch, filling the space with excitement, laughter, and most importantly, JOY!

From the moment families arrived, there was a real buzz in the air. Parents were greeted with a warm welcome and a well-earned biscuit (because we know Sundays are busy for grown-ups too!), while our new Jigsaw students were treated to fabulous classes, branded balloons, and a sweet treat to take home at the end of the day.

Once the sessions began, the atmosphere was electric. Children jumped straight into singing, dancing, and drama…many of them for the very first time. It was awesome to see new friendships form, little voices grow braver, and smiles getting bigger as the morning unfolded. By the end of class, children were racing out the door to their parents, beaming with pride and excitement.

But this day was about more than just opening a new school. It was about beginning a new creative community here in Streatham. And if the joy we saw on that very first Sunday is anything to go by, this is just the start of something truly special.

We can’t wait to welcome everyone back next week and continue this wonderful adventure together. Here’s to many more Sundays filled with singing, dancing, and drama!

If you’d like to join the Jigsaw Streatham family, it’s not too late to book a trial. We’d love to welcome you! 

We’re in! Jigsaw Balham joins NT Connections 2026

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We are absolutely thrilled to share that Jigsaw Performing Arts Balham’s Youth Theatre has been accepted onto the National Theatre Connections Programme for 2026! This is a huge achievement for our talented young performers and a fantastic opportunity to showcase their creativity, teamwork, and love of theatre in a national programme.

 

What is National Theatre Connections?

National Theatre Connections is a prestigious programme run by the National Theatre, bringing together youth theatres and schools from across the UK. Each year, ten brand-new plays are commissioned from some of the UK’s most exciting playwrights. These plays are performed by youth theatres nationwide, giving young people the chance to work with professional scripts and be part of a nationwide celebration of new writing for the stage.

For our Jigsaw Balham Youth Theatre, this means:

  • Working on a professionally written play from the 2026 selection.

  • Performing locally here in Balham in early 2026, showcasing the incredible talent of our students.

  • Taking our production to Theatre Peckham in March 2026, a professional partner theatre, where our young actors will step onto a real stage and perform in front of new audiences.

 

Why This Matters for Our Young People

Being accepted into the National Theatre Connections Programme is not just about performing, it’s about giving our young people the chance to experience theatre-making at the highest level.

Our students will:

  • Collaborate as an ensemble, developing strong teamwork skills.

  • Be inspired by professional playwrights and theatre practitioners.

  • Build memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

 

How to Get Involved

If your child loves acting and dreams of taking their passion to the next level, now is the perfect time to join our Jigsaw Balham Youth Theatre. We welcome committed, enthusiastic young performers who want to grow their skills and be part of something truly special.

Youth Theatre details:

  • For young performers aged 14-18 years 

  • Term starts on the 20th September 2025

  • Two week trials available to all new families

Places are limited, and with the excitement around this opportunity, we expect high interest.

To find out more or to secure a place visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk/franchise/balham 

We are so proud that our local community in Balham will be represented in a national programme. This achievement highlights the talent, hard work, and dedication of our young people, and we cannot wait to see their creativity shine through.

Follow our journey on social media as we share behind-the-scenes rehearsals, student insights, and updates on our National Theatre Connections adventure.

The countdown to Connections 2026 begins! 

Join Us for a Festive Pantomime Adventure – Robin Hood at the New Wimbledon Theatre!

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It may still be summer, but we’re already dreaming of Christmas lights, holiday magic, and… pantomime fun! 

To celebrate the end of our Autumn Show Term, we’re bringing together our Jigsaw students from Wimbledon, Sutton, Mitcham & Morden for a group trip to see this year’s panto spectacular – Robin Hood! Who’s coming!?

– Date: Thursday 11th December

– Time: 7:00pm

– Location: New Wimbledon Theatre

– Tickets: Just £20 – includes a delicious ice cream at the interval!

Get ready for an unforgettable night as Ashley Banjo and Diversity bring their street dance magic to Sherwood Forest, joined by comedy magician Pete Firman, panto villain Steve Arnott, and musical theatre stars Lauren Hampton and Amelia Walker. It’s a high-energy, laugh-out-loud, feel-good show that’s perfect for kicking off the festive season!

This special event is open to all Main School students from our three local branches. While it’s a family-friendly production, please note it will finish around 9:30pm, so it may be a little late for some of our younger students—we’ll leave that decision up to you!

Tickets are first come, first served – so don’t miss out!

To book your child’s place:

  1. Email michael@jigsaw-arts.co.uk to confirm your permission for them to attend.

  2. Payment will be arranged via bank transfer.

  3. Booking deadline is Friday 30th October – mark your calendars!

We’ve recently done trips to 101 Dalmations and &Juliet – both tripos were a huge success and we can’t wait for this festive outing.
Let’s wrap up the term with a night full of laughter, magic, music and memories!

 

A New Chapter for Jigsaw Wimbledon: Bigger Spaces, Brighter Futures

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Located in the heart of Wimbledon, Ricards Lodge offers state-of-the-art drama studios, a spacious hall, dedicated dance areas, and an impressive stage—everything our students need to express themselves, grow in confidence, and shine in the spotlight. These new facilities are they’re built for brilliance so our students can keep growing all of their performing arts skills!

But that’s not all. We’re also thrilled to welcome Kalyn as the new manager at Ricards Lodge. Kalyn’s journey with Jigsaw began over a decade ago as a student. Since then, she’s worked her way through the ranks—first as a Teaching Assistant, then a Performing Arts Teacher, and more recently, a Drama Teacher at both Jigsaw Mitcham and Sutton. She even launched her own branch at Jigsaw Wandsworth!

Now, as she returns to Ricards Lodge—where her Jigsaw journey first began—it feels like a full-circle moment, both for Kalyn and our community. Her energy, passion, and dedication are exactly what make Jigsaw such a special place for young performers.

And don’t worry—our classes for 3–6-year-olds will still be running at Dundonald Primary, making Sundays a full day of creativity, energy, and imagination across Wimbledon! The team at Dundonald will be all our Em’s! Emma is our site mamnager, and also the Manager of our Sutton, Mitcham & Morden branches – she brings years of experience to the role! Emma B and Emily are our exisitng performing arts teachers and they can’t wait to welcome back all their returning new studnets to the larger halls their classes will now be in!

We can’t wait to see what’s next. Join us this term at Ricards Lodge or Dundonald on Sunday and be part of something special in Wimbledon!

 

Boost creativity this Summer with a Jigsaw Arts Summer Camp!

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The summer holidays should be a time to recharge, explore, and let imaginations run wild. After a busy school year, children need more than just downtime, they need opportunities to express themselves, connect with others, and rediscover their sense of play.

In a world where screens often dominate, face-to-face creative activities are more important than ever. Performing arts gives children the chance to step into someone else’s shoes, tell stories, and work together to make something magical. It’s about more than just fun, it’s about learning life skills in a joyful, engaging way. Creative activities encourage children to collaborate, communicate, and think on their feet, skills that benefit every area of life, from the classroom to the playground. 

That’s exactly what Jigsaw Balham Summer Camps are all about.

The last few years have shown us just how important wellbeing is for children. With the pressures of exams, social media, and fast-paced lifestyles, kids need a safe, positive space where they can be themselves without fear of failure. Creative camps like ours provide exactly that. There are no wrong answers when you’re improvising a scene, choreographing a dance, or devising a new story. Children are encouraged to share ideas, try things out, and most importantly, have fun. It’s about process over perfection, which is something children rarely experience in more formal settings.

Over the course of five days, children aged 5–16 come together to create, rehearse, and perform in a show created collaboratively. Guided by our experienced performing arts teachers, they’ll dive into singing, dancing, drama, and storytelling, all while working as part of a team to bring their ideas to life.

At the end of the week, families are invited to see the final performance that celebrates imagination, collaboration, and confidence. Yes, Jigsaw Summer Camps keep children entertained, but they do so much more than that. They help young people:

-Let off steam after a busy school year.
-Build confidence through teamwork and performance.
-Develop resilience by working toward a shared goal.
-Make real friends in a welcoming, supportive space.

And the best part? No experience is needed. Every child has a role to play, whether they’re bursting with confidence or just taking their first steps into performing.

Practical Details (The Bit for Parents!)

Location: Chestnut Grove Academy, Balham
Week 1: 28th July – 1st August 2025
Week 2: 4th August – 8th August 2025
 Times: 9:00am – 3:30pm daily
Ages: 5-16 years

Children can join us for one week, or both! Each week brings a new theme, so there’s always something different to explore.

If you want your child to have fun, make friends, and grow in confidence while enjoying a truly creative experience, Jigsaw Balham Summer Camps are the perfect solution.

Spaces fill quickly, so don’t miss out!

Introducing Jigsaw Epsom Franchisee Christabel

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Jigsaw Franchisee Christabel has recently completed franchise training and is set to open Jigsaw Performing Arts School Epsom on Saturday 13th January 2024!

Why do you want to open a Jigsaw School?

I’ve been a Jigsaw parent for the last four years and over this time, I’ve marvelled at what it’s done for my son. It’s instilled him with so much confidence and passion that he has positively blossomed over the years. He has gone from a boisterous toddler to a more focused child who now has an outlet for all that little boy energy! He is currently excelling in all areas – he ran for (and was elected into) the school council as a student rep, joined a choir, performs regularly at talent shows when we’re on holiday, choreographs dance routines for his friends to follow and he is absolutely bursting with the kind of poise and self-assurance that I would never have dreamt of even having as a seven-year-old! Seeing the impact that Jigsaw has had on my son inspired me to open up my own Jigsaw school and consequently, provide the same remarkable opportunities to children within the Epsom area.

What are you most excited about?

I’m already extremely enthusiastic about opening up a new school and welcoming all our lovely new students, once we run our first session on Saturday 13th January 2024. However, if I had to state what excites me the most, it would be the notion of having the privilege to be present, witnessing the Epsom students develop over time, growing in confidence, developing their skills in the performing arts and ultimately preparing for and participating in shows and presentations. As a teacher/lecturer, I have always felt a sense of pride in observing my students’ achievements, therefore, I am particularly thrilled to have the chance to do something which enhances the lives of all the children who come to Jigsaw Epsom.

What are the three main goals you have for your school?

•    To build on the Jigsaw mission statement of providing a place to belong
•    To develop performance skills, promote self-expression and build confidence for all who attend Jigsaw Epsom
•    To ensure that everyone has fun and is treated with dignity and respect, making it a fantastic place to work and train at

To learn more about the performing arts classes at Jigsaw Epsom, click here. Get in touch with Christabel to book your two-week trial by emailing Epsom@jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 02038118636!

Bringing stories to life in Cardiff and Penarth

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Philippa joined the Jigsaw franchise family in 2018 and was the first to open a Jigsaw School outside of England. Now running three thriving Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools in Cardiff, Cardiff West and Penarth!

Bringing stories to life in Cardiff and Penarth…

My love of drama started when I was 3 years old. I was in a show made up entirely of children, and that was about the history of Britain. It touched on the war’s, and I remember a bit about the Berlin Wall. I clearly recall saying to my mum straight after, that I knew what I wanted to do when I grew up! I couldn’t imagine why anyone would want to do anything else with their life other than work in theatre! Little did I know, that show had sparked two great loves of mine. Theatre and history.

Indeed I went on to get a degree in History and Philosophy which served to intensified my love of Theatre as the perfect medium to tell a story. And ultimately, that’s what drama is all about. History – the story of the past. And Philosophy – the fashions in thinking. As an actor, you need to understand both the context of the character form a historical and philosophical point of view. Ultimately, drama is to understand, to emphasise and to contextualise. This is why I think it is such an important tool for developing children. It’s also a world of magic where your imagination can run wild! What could be more fun?!

Get in touch with Philippa to learn more about our performing arts classes at Jigsaw and to book your two week trial – 029 2236 2496

New career? Discover running a performing arts school

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New career this year on your list of goals? Perhaps to something more creative or rewarding….

Jigsaw Arts are offering the opportunity to run your own Jigsaw Performing Arts school for children! We have created a new career path that allows you to work part-time hours that can give you a full time wage. Working 33 Saturday or Sundays a year, this job opportunity allows you to fit your working hours around your existing life! Running a Jigsaw Performing Arts School is a great opportunity for those that want to work during the school term times, and freelancers that are looking for a more stable income, for work that is incredibly fulfilling!

What is Jigsaw Arts?

Jigsaw Arts was founded in 1995 with the desire to pass on the joy of the performing arts! A down to earth performing arts school. Providing singing, dance and drama classes for children aged 3 – 18. Our classes are designed to help boost confidence, improve social and communication skills, and are lots of fun! As well as our weekend schools, Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools also offer Summer Schools, Half-Term Holiday Workshops, and Birthday Parties.

At Jigsaw, we are proud to be ‘a Place to Belong’. It’s an ethos that we all live by, whether at Head Office, our Franchisees or our Students and it is a deep emotion that flows through the heart of our business.

What does being a Jigsaw Owner mean?

Oversee the successful running of your business! Provide ‘a Place to Belong’ and welcome those that are interested in the world of performing arts. Hire the right staff to teach singing, dance and drama classes. Enjoy watching the development of your students each year!

It should not be overlooked as to how extremely rewarding – not just financially – running a Jigsaw performing arts school can be. Not only do you help the children achieve their individual goals and succeed, you can enjoy personal, professional and business success too.

We recognise that our franchisees come to us with different strengths and weaknesses, and that you may be feeling apprehensive about setting up a business. Don’t worry – that’s normal. The beauty of a Franchised business is that you are in business for yourself, but not by yourself! We are here to nurture you to become your best self in running your thriving business. Providing mentoring along the way to fill in the gaps and turn you into an independent, strong, confident performing arts school business owner.

What are the benefits of franchising?

As opposed to starting a business on your own, franchising is a great career path packed with lots of benefits! As a Jigsaw franchisee, you could benefit from all of our experience and knowledge gained from nearly thirty years’ running top quality performing arts schools along with…

•    Readymade business with a quick and easy set up
•    Strong brand association
•    On-going training and mentoring
•    Resale Value
•    Professional guidance and support
•    Setup tools and equipment

Could you be a Jigsaw Performing Arts School Owner?

The requirements to become a Jigsaw Performing Arts School Owner are a passion to work with young people and make a difference, a desire to succeed and a hard working attitude. We know this is a winning combination!

You may already work in the performing arts or have more of a business background with a passion for theatre and performance. We welcome applications from both. Whilst being a franchisee of a business with such a history of success brings many benefits, you are the key to the success of your Jigsaw Performing Arts school.

Get in touch!

If you think running a Jigsaw Performing Arts School could be for you and you want to learn more, email franchise@jigsaw-arts.co.uk and request our brochure!

Want to speak to someone about the new career opportunities at Jigsaw Arts? Request to book a Zoom meeting with us for a friendly and informal chat, to help you learn more about the business.

At Jigsaw, there is never any hard sale or obligations to continue once you begin a discussion with us. We are here to share as much information about the business with you, to help you make your decision!

Follow us on Instagram @Jigsawartsschools and @Jigsawartsheadoffice.
Check out our website here for more information :https://www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk/franchises/

Jigsaw Epsom Classes are OPEN!

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Jigsaw Epsom Classes are OPEN! Having recently completed her Jigsaw Franchise training, we spoke to new Jigsaw Epsom franchisee Christabel about how it went:

What steps did you take to go from the franchise enquiry stage to embarking upon your training?

“I had enquired earlier in the year about the Jigsaw franchise and attended one of their Discovery Days where I found out more about how the business works. From there on, I visited another Jigsaw school in action and did some research before deciding on an area. Once this had been established and a start date of January 2024 was decided on, my training to become the owner of Jigsaw Epsom was scheduled for November 2023.”

What did you cover in your training and what were your favourite parts?

“There are so many different aspects of the business that I didn’t realise were part and parcel of the role. It was interesting learning about Jigbase (Jigsaw’s online management system) and trying it out for myself. I also enjoyed being taught how to run a school; the day-to-day details, as well as what goes on behind the scenes, such as marketing/social media campaigns. It was really nice being able to meet so many of the Head Office staff and current franchisees – everyone is so friendly; they were also great at providing advice and answering and queries that I had. I completed my training with Kalyn, the Wandsworth school manager, so it was good to be able to train alongside someone who is also starting out. We both received our first bookings within a day of one another too, which was amazing! The training finished with dinner and a trip to the theatre as well, which was such a nice way to finish the training, after all the long days, taking in copious amounts of information. It was also really quite apt, being a performing arts school, to be able to attend a performance together!”

How do you feel, now that the training part is over? Are you ready to open up your new school?

“It has been a long week for me, travelling from Epsom to head office in North London each day. Nonetheless, the training was extremely well-organised and in-depth, so I do feel that I’m now armed with all the information needed to go forth and open up my school, so yes, I would say that I am ready to begin the classes in January. I suppose now it’s all about applying the information learned, which is incredibly exciting, although I may not be saying this on my first day, when I’m nervous about getting everything right! I do know that I will have my Franchise Support Manager with me on the day though, which is reassuring. This is where you have backing as a franchisee; I know that I am not going to be left to my own devices and that there is an entire support network available for me to tap into, whenever I should need it.”

Jigsaw Epsom will be opening its doors January 2024! Offering singing, drama and dance classes to students aged 3 – 18. Get in touch to learn more to to book your two week trial – Epsom@jigsaw-arts.co.uk!

Kalyn from Jigsaw Wandsworth reviews Les Mis!

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On the 28th of November, Kalyn from Jigsaw Wandsworth saw the timeless classic Les Miserables at the Soundheim Theatre in London with Nikki and fellow Jigsaw Franchisees; Aoife, Christabel and Katie. The evening was a well deserved celebration marking the end of Franchise training for Jigsaw Wandsworth’s Kalyn and Jigsaw Epsom’s Christabel. What better way to celebrate than in Jigsaw style by going to the theatre!

Back when she was a Jigsaw student, her teachers introduced her to the world of musical theatre for the first time. Ever since, Kalyn has loved watching musicals and listening to the soundtracks at home – and loves playing them to her 3-4 years Performing Arts classes too. Les Mis is no exception! There are some amazing songs in Les Mis that are favourites for our young students to learn at Jigsaw, such as: Castle on a Cloud and Little People.

Whilst Kalyn knows the soundtrack off by heart, this was her very first time seeing Les Miserables at the theatre – and she was blown away by how magical it was. In particular, she was impressed with the talented and confident child performers who played young Gavroche, Eponine and Cosette! Their performances were both comedic, yet gut wrenching. Commanding the stage and projecting your voice to a huge theatre of over 10,000 seats is absolutely incredible!

The classic masterpiece wowed the audience through the casts’ spine tingling vocals, as well as gorgeous costumes and the work of the very talented Wigs, Hair & Make Up department – who aged and transformed the characters so well.

Another stand out moment in the show, was seeing not one, but TWO ex Jigsaw teachers in the cast. Jess and Yasmin are working in the ensemble and shone throughout the performance! We couldn’t be more proud and the incredible standing ovation during the curtain call was testament to how amazing it was.

Kalyn will be opening Jigsaw Arts Wandsworth and Christabel will be opening Jigsaw Arts Epsom in January 2024 – and will definitely be organising more theatre trips in the near future with their students!