Success for Pendleton Performing Arts!

Three Pendleton Sixth Form College students are accepted into the Guildford School of Acting, one of the most highly regarded theatre schools in the UK.

Lucca Chadwick-Patel, Owen Bolton and Zachariah Frieze have all been accepted into the prestigious school, situated at the University of Surrey.

Lucca, former Culcheth High School pupil, said: “I’m absolutely over the moon to have been accepted into such a prestigious school, it was my top choice school and to be given the opportunity to train there for the next three years still hasn’t sunk in. Musical theatre has always been my passion so this really is a dream come true.

“I have to say though, none of this would be possible without my fantastic teachers and the whole performing arts department at Pendleton. Their continued support and hard work really is a credit to the college. GSA only accepts around 36 people a year, and the fact that three Pendleton students have got in from the first recall of the year really is a credit to the fantastic staff and teaching that Pendleton provides.”

Pendleton Performing Arts is nationally acclaimed for their provision, with the department maintaining a 100% pass rate. Many of their students go on to study at commended drama and performance schools and they have an impressive cohort of alumni including Michelle Keegan and Dunkirk’s, Tom Glynn-Carney. 

Owen Bolton, former Rose Bridge High School pupil said: “I couldn’t believe it when I was given a place at GSA – it is my biggest achievement to date. Being offered a place at a drama school is one thing, but to be offered a place at your dream school is a whole different ball game – it’s been quite a surreal experience.  

“Over the past year and a half at Pendleton, I have been given specialist training by some of the best teaching staff available in the country. They are clearly specialists in their subjects and are well equipped to support students in pursuing their careers in musical theatre. They are a real credit to the college – I 100% wouldn’t be where I am without being taught by them.

“Prior to enrolling at Pendleton, I had never danced a step in my life and the thought of a ballet or tap class scared me to death. But, since joining the college I soon realised that the training on offer was too good of an opportunity to miss. Dance is now a big part of my life and I wish to pursue it as a career.”

Zachariah Frieze was the third student to have been given a place at the school, he said: “Words can’t describe how I feel about being accepted into The Guildford School of Acting for their prestigious professional BA Musical Theatre course. Getting into this school was always my main goal.

“Having never really trained in musical theatre before college, the staff at Pendleton have truly helped me in all aspects of performance including singing, acting and particularly dancing. I started at Pendleton with no dance experience and have left with a level of technique and flexibility to now start professional training.

“Additionally, I have been lucky enough to be cast in four of Pendleton’s amazing Season of Shows, which allow you to put your training into practice.”

Teaching staff at the college are thrilled with the news and are extremely proud of the success of their students. Neil Bennett, Head of the college’s ‘Centre of Excellence in Performing and Production Arts’, said: “Guildford School of Acting is one of the most prestigious drama schools in the country and all our teaching staff and students are thrilled at the news that three of our musical theatre students have already gained places there.

“Congratulations to Lucca, Owen and Zac on this wonderful achievement!”