Hi, I’m Michelle — the proud parent of an incredibly dedicated and talented young performer.

This September, my daughter Layla (16) will begin training at the prestigious Emil Dale Academy in London — one of the UK’s top musical theatre schools. She earned this incredible opportunity through pure talent, grit, and countless hours of training and auditions.

I couldn’t be prouder. But the truth is, high-level performing arts education comes with a significant financial burden.

Why this matters

For Layla, musical theatre isn’t just a hobby — it’s her passion and her calling. She dreams of performing on the West End, and Emil Dale is the perfect launchpad to help her get there.

However, tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses add up quickly. As a single parent, I’m doing everything I can to support her, but we need some extra help to make this dream a reality.

What your support will help cover:

Travel to London for induction day, meet family for accommodation, moving-in day plus travel home on term breaks.

Accommodation is still to be arranged at a cost of approx. £500-£700 per month for 1 room rental with a family.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice (Musical Theatre).

Total Annual Cost: Up to £4,450

(Government-funded academic hours + optional private sector hours)

Government-Funded BTEC Education – Free for students aged 16–18. Funded by: The Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA)

Academic hours: 13–18 hours per week

Cost to student: £0 – fully funded for eligible students (ages 16–18)

No application required: Funding is automatically awarded upon enrolment

Private Vocational Training Fee – £4,450 per year (inc. VAT)

What Are Private Sector Hours?

Private sector hours make up 10–17 additional studio hours per week over the two-year BTEC course. These sessions allow us to offer a highly enriched vocational training experience, including:

Private 1:1 weekly technique lessons

Ensemble singing

Guest masterclasses

Ballet, jazz, tap, commercial, contemporary

Acting, acting through song, performance class

Cardio

Additional costs for the courses may include:

Studio and rehearsal wear are compulsory (A full kit list is sent on enrolment) This includes shoes, mandatory Emil Dale Academy uniform, and practice kit relevant to the class you are undertaking (i.e. ballet uniform for ballet).

Books, stationery or computer/laptop or similar to carry out word processing, research and watch audio-visual recorded performance work.

BTEC students may choose to have a professional headshot for the programme for their productions each year, but this is not mandatory. BTEC students will need to travel to Hitchin for technical weeks and show weeks, and thus travel costs may apply.

Optional hire of a locker for an annual fee.

Every single pound will go directly toward Layla’s training and journey.

For full transparency, we’ve also set up a Revolut 16–17 account — if you'd prefer to donate directly, just scan the QR code below.

Every little bit counts

Whether it’s £5 or £50, your support brings us closer to helping a gifted young woman pursue her dream.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would mean the world to us — it truly helps.

Thank you for being part of Layla’s journey. Let’s help her light up the stage.

With heartfelt thanks,

Michelle & Layla

A Few Words from Layla

After two years of attending Glasgow workshops with Emil Dale Academy, I’m beyond excited to say that I’ll be joining their 2-Year Triple Threat Musical Theatre Extended Diploma!

I want to say a massive thank you to the people who have not only helped shape my career but also helped me become the person I am today.

PQA Glasgow: This is where I first discovered my love and passion for musical theatre. You helped me grow my confidence in acting, singing, and dancing — and made me believe this dream was possible.

@inter_performingarts: Although I’ve only trained here a short while, I’ve learned so many valuable skills, and made friendships that will last a lifetime.

Dance Studio Scotland: This past year of training in various dance styles has been so important in helping me grow as a dancer.

@slayhouseglasgow: This was the first open class I ever went to, and from the moment I stepped into the studio, I felt safe, welcomed, and inspired. Without that, I wouldn’t have built the confidence to perform on camera.

And lastly, to my amazing singing teacher @cmodestou — thank you for helping me find my voice (literally!). Your guidance in technique and audition prep has been invaluable.

Thank you so much for reading and supporting me. I can’t wait to make you all proud.

— Layla