The Creatives' Corner

Closing Season 1 of The Creatives' Corner, we had the pleasure of speaking to Dr. Sheena Calvert, a philosopher, writer, designer and artist. Sheena has a PhD in philosophy of language and aesthetics and was able to shed a light on many things, from the relationship between creativity and critical thinking, to the importance of slowing down in an increasingly fast-paced digital world. Sheena also...

On this episode of The Creatives' Corner, we speak with George Crump, once a student working through the RSL Awards grade books and Vocational Qualifications, now a working musician with their own solo project. George reflects on their education journey and how it laid the foundations for a sustainable career in music. They also share how diving into Vocational Qualifications sparked their songwri...

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak with Professor Andy Stott, Head of Popular Music at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). Andy reflects on his career as a session drummer and percussionist, and shares the story behind RNCM’s Popular Music course - the UK’s only four-year, conservatoire-based undergraduate degree of its kind. He also discusses the role of sheet music in mod...

On this special episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we’re broadcasting live from the Music & Drama Education Expo. The conversation features Martin Wright (Director of Business Development and Partnerships at BN1 Arts) and Suzanne Parke (Leader of Learning at Peer Productions) as we explore where creative arts education stands today, and where it could be heading next.

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we’re joined by Stacey Green, Co-Founder of Shades Dancewear and the TIRED Movement. Stacey shares the story behind her work with the TIRED Movement, the RED Research Project and the Freedom Foundation, and reflects on her experiences in the performing arts industry. We explore why uncomfortable conversations matter, how honest dialogue drives progress, an...

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we’re joined by Dr. Oliver Morris, Director of Education & Skills at UK Music. He explains why Vocational Qualifications can be a powerful alternative for young people who don’t thrive in traditional education, and why they matter now more than ever. Dr. Morris also reflects on his own journey and how returning to college reignited his love of learning...

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Claire-Louise Auguste, Global Manager for Stageschool at RSL Awards, who explains how Vocational Qualifications can transform the classroom experience for both teachers and learners. She unpacks why flexibility matters, how choice builds confidence, and why giving learners ownership of their journey leads to stronger performance. Claire-Louise...

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Matt Griffiths, who was CEO of Youth Music at the time of recording. Matt explores the gap between young people’s appetite for music and the support structures around them, and why guidance is critical if students are going to turn passion into a sustainable career. He also reflects on how schools and colleges can better teach and inspire young...

On this special live episode from the Creative Futures conference, we discuss "Accessibility in the Arts" - a conversation featuring Joshua Satch (Songwriter “SATCH” and Co-chair of @ivorsacademy LGBTQIA+ Advocacy Group), Stacey Green (Founder of TIRED Movement and Shades Dancewear), Sean Addicott (Learning Support Facilitator and Module Leader at DBS Institute), and Rebecca Bates (CEO of the Supa...

On this special live episode from the Creative Futures Conference, we bring you The Creative Futures Panel - a conversation featuring Dr Stephen Partridge (University of Hertfordshire / Kave Space), Laura Nicholson (One Dance UK), Hannah Phipps (DBS Institute), and Phil Nelson (BIMM / Pathways to Music). Together, they dive into the role the creative arts play in shaping confident, capable young p...

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Rag’n’Bone Man's drummer, Ben Thomas, who explores why Vocational Qualifications offer such a powerful pathway for young musicians stepping into the industry. He discusses how the Rockschool Diploma equips students with the skills, discipline, and real-world awareness needed to navigate today’s music landscape. Ben also reflects on his own jour...

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Mia Bird, the founder of BN1 Arts in Brighton, who shares her inspiring journey from a working-class background to becoming a leading voice in arts education. Mia opens up about why vocational qualifications are vital for young people in the performing arts, and how they impact students in ways traditional education can’t. Hear her insights on...

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Norton York, founder and chairman of Rockschool, as he shares his remarkable journey from studying classical music in the 1980s to creating Europe’s first dedicated pop school. Norton explains why Rockschool grades matter, how the UK led the way in shaping global popular music education, and why vocational qualifications are so important for yo...

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Jason Knight who reflects on why vocational qualifications give young people the best foundation for university and a future career in the arts. He explains how college courses help students to network, build confidence, and to work in the industry. He also shares how the band Reef first came together through their music college experience.