Q: What is the Junior Performing Arts Academy and who is it for?

A: The JPA is a place where students who are passionate about all areas of the performing arts can further hone their skills. The academy is for students who love performing to a live audience and are looking to develop their skills and knowledge across the three main performing arts disciplines - drama, dance and singing.

Q: How does my son / daughter gain a place in the Junior Performing Arts Academy?
A: Students must submit three self-audition tapes (singing, dancing, acting) including:

• A dramatic monologue (max 1 min 30 sec)
• A song (any style, backing track or a cappella, max 1 min 30 sec)
• A dance (any style, max 1 min 30 sec)

Submit these with the application form by Monday 6th October 2025, 3pm. View our help guide on how to submit the videos.

Q: What happens if my son/daughter is successful in round 1 of the auditions?
A: Successful candidates will be invited to attend a boot camp on Saturday 11th October 2025 at 10.00am.

Q: What is the point of the aptitude auditions?
A: To give an opportunity to attend Shenfield for students who may not otherwise gain admission and to assess a student's aptitude for performing arts. 

Q: How will my child be assessed?
A: A score is awarded for each discipline. After the in person auditions, parents receive a rating: OUTSTANDING, VERY GOOD, GOOD, or PROFICIENT. OUTSTANDING means the student was in the top 12 performances and will be offered a place in the JPA.

Q: Will all students be auditioned in person?
A: No. The JPA is for gifted performers. Students must have a foundation level in all three disciplines and a desire to improve.

Q: What are the benefits of joining the Performing Arts Academy?
A: Three extra sessions per week, professional workshops, performance opportunities, theatre trips, opportunities to gain a qualification and one-to-one audition guidance.

Q: When will I find out if my child is being called for the second round of auditions?
A: All applicants will receive an email on Wednesday 8th October 2025. Successful candidates will be invited to boot camp auditions on Saturday 11th October 2025 at 10.00am.

Q: What if I can't make the date of the audition?
A: Apply as usual and note your availability. If selected, an alternative audition date may be arranged.

Q: When will we find out the result of the audition?
A: Candidates will receive an email by 22nd October 2025. Essex will confirm school places in March.

Q: Does my child still need to audition even if they are definitely getting a place at the school?
A: Yes. All students must audition for the JPA. Even if admission is gained through other criteria, the aptitude test shows interest in joining the Academy.

Q: How many Junior Performing Arts Academy places will be offered to Year 6 students joining SHS in September 2026?
A: 14 places are available. Up to 12 will be allocated through aptitude auditions.

Q: Further questions?
Email Ms Sherwood - Lead Teacher: Junior Performing Arts Academy: e.sherwood@shenfield.essex.sch.uk