Published: July 13, 2010
Out-of-school activities boost for Burnham and Highbridge

Highbridge's Curtain Call School of Performing Arts has joined a new initiative encouraging children across Somerset to take part in out-of-school activities.

The group has been added to Somerset County Council's new 'Give It A Go!' scheme, and funding for pupils is now available for any child aged 5-17, providing they are still at school, receive free school meals or are in care.

"This a fantastic opportunity for children to take part in some of our performing arts classes," Patricia Ham, Principal of Curtain Call, told Burnham-On-Sea.com.

"The funding available will cover tuition fees and, depending how many subjects are taken, can cover the outlay of any uniform, such as specialist dance shoes and even examination costs, should students wish to pursue the class to that level."

The group has already started registering 'Give It A Go!' students for its September intake.

She added: "When we moved into The Old Creamery in Highbridge, I wanted to bring the world of the theatre to the community and now 'Give it A Go!' has enabled us to encourage children who might not otherwise have the chance to sing, act or dance."

Curtain Call offers a range of classes, from musical theatre to ballet to street
dance and a range of boys-only classes.

Government studies have shown that children who do take part in extra curricular activities benefit from increased confidence and self-esteem and are more likely to achieve their full potential in and out of school.