Open to all students in Years 12–13 – no audition required

Are you passionate about performance? Do you want to be part of a nationally recognised theatre project? Join the Sixth Form Theatre Academy – a dynamic and inclusive opportunity for all Shenfield students in Years 12 and 13, whatever your experience level.

Our Academy meets every Wednesday during Periods 4 and 5, where students prepare and rehearse for the prestigious National Theatre Connections Festival.

Each year, Connections commissions a selection of brand-new plays, created especially for young people by some of the UK’s most exciting contemporary writers. Shenfield is proud to be one of only 250 youth companies across the country selected to take part.

What to Expect

• Rehearsals at Shenfield
  From September through early spring, you'll collaborate with peers to develop and rehearse your chosen Connections play. A Home Performance will take place between February and April, here at Shenfield. A professional National Theatre Mentor Director will attend and offer expert feedback to help elevate the work.
• Transfer to a Partner Theatre
  Between March and May, your production will transfer to a professional stage as part of a regional Partner Theatre Festival, giving students the invaluable experience of performing in a real theatre venue.
• National Theatre Connections Festival
  Finally, one company from each commissioned play will be selected to perform at the Connections Festival at the National Theatre, London – a thrilling celebration of youth theatre on a national platform.

Why Join?

• Be part of a nationally recognised project
• Have the opportunity to purchase a dedicated Academy uniform to wear on Wednesdays
• Perform in a professional venue
• Build confidence, creativity, and collaboration
• No audition – just commitment, passion, and energy

Whether you’re an experienced performer or simply curious to try something new, the Sixth Form Theatre Academy welcomes you.

Take centre stage. Tell bold new stories. Be part of something extraordinary. 

Sixth Form Theatre Academy uniform is required and can be purchased from Red Oak Roller - Shenfield theatre academy

Sixth Form Theatre Academy t-shirt 
Plain black leggings/joggers
Trainers

Optional - Sixth Form Theatre Academy hoody