Swindon School Performing Arts Partnership.
A Swindon primary school is celebrating a successful first year of working with Revolution Performing Arts (RPA).The collaboration gives pupils the opportunity to build confidence and express themselves through singing, dancing and drama.
RPA began delivering weekly sessions at Gorse Hill Primary School in October 2025. And around 20 children now attend the hour-long class each week.
Founder Fi Da Silva-Adams has watched the group grow in confidence over the last 12 months. All culminating in the children performing alongside other RPA groups at Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre in July.
‘We have some little ones who wouldn’t sing in front of their friends at first. So, we’d find ways to make it feel less daunting while still giving them their moment in the spotlight,’ said Fi.
‘Over time we’ve watched that confidence grow and they’ve started to love performing. They’re such an expressive group of young people. And seeing them discover what they’re capable of has been glorious.’
Leading the sessions
RPA leader Angel, supported by assistant Eris, led the sessions. They offered pupils an alternative to some of the school’s more sports-focused extracurricular activities.
Gorse Hill headteacher Candida Hutchinson said the number of children taking part has increased during the year. And she’s seen the difference the sessions have made.
‘Lots of the clubs we have are sports-linked, and not every child is sporty. We wanted to offer something different. An opportunity for children to shine in another way,’ she said.
‘Seeing them perform at the Wyvern was super special. Having the opportunity to perform on a stage like that is a fantastic experience for the children.
‘As a school, we’re very much about supporting children to have high aspirations. And see that anything is available to them, and that they also have a lot to give.’
Candida said the RPA sessions have also attracted a particularly diverse group of pupils. They’re among the school’s clubs most representative of its wider school community.
A long-standing relationship
Fi and Candida first met while working Saturday jobs together at the Swiss Chalet in Swindon’s Brunel shopping centre. And their professional paths have crossed several times since.
‘I love the relationship we have with Gorse Hill and the energy in the school. It’s so warm and welcoming,’ said Fi. “Watching the partnership grow and knowing we’re helping more young people experience performing arts is so special.’
The children are now preparing for a Christmas sharing for their families before beginning work towards their next RPA show on May 23, 2027.
RPA is keen to hear from other schools interested in introducing performing arts opportunities for their pupils.
‘Working with schools allows us to reach children who might never think about joining a performing arts class outside school,’ said Fi. “We’d love to work with more schools. And give more young people the chance to sing, dance, act and find something they love.’
Founded in 2007 by Fi Da Silva-Adams, Revolution Performing Arts delivers more than 1,200 performing arts sessions every year across Swindon, North Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire. Through its:
- weekly classes
- school partnerships and …
- holiday provision … RPA helps children and young people build confidence through singing, dancing and drama.
Schools interested in working with Revolution Performing Arts can contact the team at office@revolutionpa.co.ukor visit https://www.revolutionpa.co.uk/
