Graduation Day
On a sun-dappled morning in Southgate, our theatre filled with proud families, buzzing students, and a palpable sense of something big - Graduation Day had arrived.
For our BTEC Year 2, Foundation Degree Year 2, and BA (Hons) Inclusive Performance students, this wasn’t just a ceremony. It was a milestone. A moment to stop and recognise how far they’ve come - not just in performance, but in confidence, connection, and self-discovery.
Dancing in the Storm
In her speech, our Head of Education Jojo reflected on the unique path this graduating class had walked - beginning their training in the uncertain, socially-distanced days of lockdown and rising to become bold, expressive, inclusive practitioners.
“I’m not a fan of the word ‘resilience’,” she told the audience. “It often implies simply surviving. But you - our students - you don’t just brave the storm. You party in it. You question it. You change it. And you make sure as many people as possible are thriving in it.”
It was a powerful truth - and one this cohort has embodied. Through original productions they’ve tackled big ideas with creativity and courage, never losing sight of what Chickenshed stands for: theatre as a force for change.
"The distance they’ve all travelled is immense. And along the way, they’ve gathered souvenirs of experience, friendship and confidence that they will carry with them into the future. I will miss them. But I will smile BIG whenever I hear about their next chapter."
What Comes Next
Some of our graduates are off to new stages - professional work, further training, exciting unknowns. Others will stay with us a little longer, guiding new students through their own journeys. But all of them leave today with the same message:
Success is not a race. It’s not a spotlight for one. It’s a stage big enough for us all.
Congratulations, graduates. You did it - together. And we are so proud.
"They became an inspiration at a time when I needed inspiring and I've been they've allowed me to achieve every dream I've ever had."
Education
Learn practical performance training in a professional theatre with Chickenshed
