New Brit School for young performers is being launched in the North to train the next stars
A NEW UK school for young artists is opening in the North to train the next generation of stars like Adele and Amy Winehouse.
Ministers hope the Academy of Performing Arts will give 500 16-19 year olds the opportunity to become tomorrow’s superstars.
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Graduates from the original Brit School in Croydon, south London, have sold more than 250 million albums and won 15 UK awards.
Plans for the new free school in Bradford were submitted by the music industry association BPI.
It is inspired by the BRIT School in Croydon, south London, which was established in 1991 and of which Adele is the most famous alumni.
Of her time there, she said: “It was by far the best four years of my life ever. All were great. It was so supportive.
“I was encouraged to learn to write my own music, which is what I do today and one of the reasons I’m so successful.”
Previous students also include Jessie J, Spiderman actor Tom Holland and former X Factor winner Leona Lewis.
The free school will be one of 650 across the country, attended by 350,000 students.
The announcement comes as ministers unveil the next wave of free schools this week, targeting areas in need of places in disadvantaged areas of the country.
Zayn Malik, the Bradford-born former One Direction star, said: “Having grown up in Bradford without many resources, I know the fight firsthand and what a life-changing difference it would immediately make for these young people. “
Education Minister Gillian Keegan said: “My hometown of Liverpool is known to be the home of The Beatles, The Mersey Beat and many other stars.
Whether on stage, on screen or behind the scenes, the North is teeming with creative talent.
“This announcement means that more young people will be able to fulfill their potential and follow in their footsteps at the new BRIT school in the North.
dr Jo Twist OBE, Chief Executive of BPI, said: “We are pleased with this decision and it is a positive signal that the Government recognizes the vital importance of creative and specialized creative arts education.”
