The Pauline Quirke Academy Wakefield

The Pauline Quirke Academy Pontefract is a weekend performing arts school based at St Wilfrid's Catholic High School, offering specialist training in Comedy & Drama, Musical Theatre, and Film & Television for children aged 4-18. Main Academy sessions run for three hours on Saturday mornings and afternoons, with students rotating through all three modules for approximately one hour each.

Sessions are led by Principal Lyndsay Mundin and experienced industry professionals, including tutors with credentials from institutions such as Leeds Conservatoire and Sheffield Hallam University.

The Comedy & Drama module focuses on creative play, improvisation and scriptwriting through project-based learning. Musical Theatre develops singing, dancing and acting skills through group work and character exploration. The Film & Television module uses professional equipment, with students learning to storyboard, screenwrite, film and act, gaining experience both in front of and behind the camera. Younger children aged 4-6 can join Poppets sessions, 90-minute classes introducing singing, dancing and acting.

PQA Pontefract creates a nurturing environment where children develop confidence, resilience and communication skills alongside their creative abilities. Students participate in projects, challenges and performance opportunities, with chances to showcase their work at professional venues. New members are welcome to attend a complimentary session to experience classes before committing to membership.