Light Up the Stage —
And Life.

Our Performing Arts Academy is designed for individuals 16+ with learning disabilities who want to grow in confidence, develop new skills, make friends, and discover the joy of performing.

4 Days a Week

Tue · Wed · Thu · Fri
9:30am – 3:30pm each day

Where Growth Meets the Stage

Our Academy sessions combine professional performing arts training with personal development and recognised achievement. Alongside acting, dance, music, and creative expression, students gain confidence and nationally recognised qualifications.

Students are fully supported throughout the day by our experienced team in a safe, welcoming environment — including breaks and lunch facilitated on-site.

Acting excellence and artistic ambition

LAMDA qualifications — nationally recognised

Social skills, friendships and belonging

On-site café · independence built naturally

Artistic Excellence Goes Hand in Hand with Learning and Personal Growth

We aim to change the perceptions of disability through bold, confident performance. When our students perform, it brings incredible positive changes to their lives — a new self-assurance and pride in what they can accomplish.

Three Full Disciplines. One Incredible Journey.

Whether you love acting, dancing, singing, music, or simply want to try something new — our Academy offers a vibrant, welcoming space where every individual is supported to reach their full potential

Acting & Drama

An electrifying, high-octane production that had audiences singing at the top of their lungs and dancing in their seats.

Dance & Movement

Physical confidence, co-ordination, and expression through movement — from contemporary to musical theatre styles.

Singing & Music

Vocal technique, musicality, ensemble singing, and the pure joy of finding and using your voice — at every level.

Creative Expression

Imagination, creativity, self-expression, and identity — explored through a range of creative arts activities throughout the year.

LAMDA Examinations

Students are entered for LAMDA examinations — gaining confidence, celebrating achievement, and earning nationally recognised qualifications in performing arts. These are the same qualifications taken by professional performers across the country.

Develop Skills. Gain Qualifications.

Full Role Training

Acting, movement, voice projection and stage presence built through every session.

Confidence & Self-Belief

Active listening, speaking confidently, tone of voice, body language and expression.

Teamwork & Social Skills

Working together, building friendships, and becoming part of a real community.

Independence & Responsibility

Day structure, café socialising, and self-management naturally woven into every day.

Four Full Days a Week

Our Academy runs four days a week throughout the year, giving students a structured, full programme with consistent support, professional tuition, and a real sense of belonging.

Tuesday

9:30am – 3:30pm

Wednesday

9:30am – 3:30pm

Thursday

9:30am – 3:30pm

Friday

9:30am – 3:30pm

Friendly On-Site Café

Breaks and lunch times are fully facilitated, with access to our friendly on-site café — creating opportunities to relax, socialise, and naturally build independence skills every single day.

Fully Supported All Day

Students are fully supported throughout the entire day by our experienced, caring team in a safe and welcoming environment — so families can feel confident and at ease.

Based in Runcorn, Cheshire

Our Academy is centrally located and welcoming students from across Halton, Cheshire, Knowsley, and Warrington. Call us to arrange a visit.

 

Three Full Disciplines. One Incredible Journey.

Whether you love acting, dancing, singing, music, or simply want to try something new — our Academy offers a vibrant, welcoming space where every individual is supported to reach their full potential

Professionally Trained

All three disciplines — dance, drama, and singing — are taught by professionally trained teachers with real theatre and television experience. High expectations, warm delivery.

Every Learner Understood

Our tutors understand how to reach every individual. They adapt, encourage, and celebrate — because seeing students blossom is the greatest thing we do here at Ella.

Safe & DBS Checked

All tutors, staff, and volunteers hold enhanced DBS checks. Every student’s safety and comfort is our absolute priority, every single day.

Enquire About the Academy

Places are available now. Call us to find out more, arrange a taster session, or learn about funding options available for your place..

Light Up the Stage — And Life.

If you or someone you care for is interested in joining the Ella Performing Arts Academy, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to arrange a visit and see the Academy in action.

1
Get in Touch

Give us a call on 01928 713877 or drop us a message — tell us a bit about yourself and why you’d like to volunteer.

2
Arrange a Visit

Come and see a session, meet the team, and experience the warmth and energy of the Ellatogether community.

3
Start the Journey

Join our Academy programme and begin growing in confidence, skills, qualifications, and belonging — from day one.