Every weekend, the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in Maidstone, Rochester and Tunbridge Wells bursts into life as children and young people aged 4 to 18 step into a world of creativity, confidence and possibility. We are passionate about giving every student a vibrant, varied and genuinely enriching experience of the performing arts, all within a safe, supportive and welcoming community.
In the Main Academy, students aged 6–18 dive into three hours of dynamic, hands‑on training across our classes: Comedy & Drama, Musical Theatre, and Film & Television. From acting and singing to dancing, improvisation and filmmaking, each session invites them to explore new skills, stretch their imagination and discover what they’re capable of.
Our youngest performers, the Poppets aged 4–6, enjoy their own weekly adventure in the arts. Their sessions focus on key stepping stones: communication, teamwork, imagination, creativity and more, giving them a joyful introduction to performance while building the foundations that will support them far beyond the class.
Led by Principal Verity Rae Martin and a dedicated team of industry professionals, PQA is committed to helping every student, on stage, on screen and in everyday life. The skills they gain here, from directing and improvisation to collaboration and confidence, stay with them whether they pursue a career in the arts or simply carry their creativity into whatever future they choose.
Our students also enjoy extraordinary opportunities: performing at His Majesty’s Theatre in London’s West End, showcasing their Film & TV work on the big screen at our regional Film Festival, and taking part in projects that celebrate their creativity and hard work.
At PQA, there truly is something for everyone. Whether your child dreams of the spotlight, loves being behind the camera, or simply wants to make friends, grow in self-belief and have fun. Here, every young person has the space to explore who they are and who they can become.
Find out more about The Pauline Quirke Academy here.
