Students go on an inspiring expedition to Leeds Grand Theatre!

On 12th March, some of our students enjoyed an inspiring expedition to Leeds Grand Theatre to watch a performance of Gentleman Jack, following a series of creative workshops delivered in school by Northern Ballet.

In the weeks leading up to the trip, students worked closely with visiting artists from the company, taking part in a range of hands-on sessions designed to explore the many disciplines that sit behind a professional theatre production. These workshops included printing, costume exploration, dance and creative writing, giving students the opportunity to experiment with different forms of artistic expression while learning from professionals who have built successful careers in the creative industries.

The experience allowed students to step into the world of the arts and see first-hand how creativity, discipline and collaboration come together to produce powerful storytelling on stage. Through printing activities, students explored visual design and the role it plays in theatre production. Costume sessions encouraged them to think about how clothing can help communicate character and narrative, while dance workshops allowed them to experience the physical storytelling that sits at the heart of ballet performance. Creative writing sessions also challenged students to think deeply about narrative, character and perspective.

At Dixons Trinity Chapeltown, we believe that a rich arts education plays an important role in developing well-rounded young people. Creative subjects encourage students to think differently, to take risks and to approach challenges with curiosity and imagination. Flexing their creative muscles helps students develop valuable skills in problem solving, communication and collaboration, all of which support them as they continue climbing their mountains both inside and outside the classroom. Meeting professional artists was another key part of the experience. For many students, the workshops provided an opportunity to speak directly with people who have built fulfilling careers in the arts. Hearing their journeys and learning about the dedication and perseverance required to succeed helped students see the creative industries as a genuine pathway for the future.

The trip to Leeds Grand Theatre brought the experience full circle, allowing students to watch Gentleman Jack performed live on stage after exploring many of the creative processes behind it. Seeing the costumes, choreography and storytelling come together in a professional production gave students a deeper appreciation of the craft and teamwork involved in the performing arts. Staff at the academy were incredibly proud of how the students engaged with every element of the programme. They approached each workshop with curiosity and enthusiasm, embracing the opportunity to try something new and develop their creative confidence.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Northern Ballet for providing such a valuable and inspiring experience. Opportunities like this remind us that education is not just about academic success; it is also about nurturing creativity, building cultural understanding and helping young people discover new passions as they continue to climb their mountains.

For more information on the performance, please visit:

Gentleman Jack | Northern Ballet