Our classes
At PQA, we’re proud to do things a little differently. Our Main Academy, for children aged 6-18 years, includes hour-long sessions in Film and Television, Comedy and Drama, and Musical Theatre. For younger children, aged 4-6 years, we provide performing arts classes for early years in our Poppets sessions.
We champion Project-Based Learning, supporting children and young people to learn through doing. Our unique learning skills framework encourages curiosity and creativity, exploring topics, themes, and genres. Under the expert guidance of our teaching teams, young people gain performance and creative skills while developing as individuals.
Pauline Quirke MBE
PQA was founded in 2007 by Pauline and her husband Steve Sheen, when, unable to find performing arts class for their son Charlie, they decided to create their own.
Pauline Quirke, discovered acting at the age of 9 and is most recognised in the UK for her role as Sharon Theodopolopodous in ‘Birds of a Feather’. Among many other credits, Pauline also appeared in Channel 4’s gritty teen drama ‘Skins’ and was BAFTA-nominated for her performance in 'The Sculptress'. And of course, there was her portrayal of Susan Wright in ITV's award-winning drama, 'Broadchurch' with David Tennant and Olivia Coleman.
In 2022, Pauline was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to young people, the entertainment industry and charity.
Principal Rosie Howard
Principal Rosie has been part of the PQA story for over 14 years, successfully leading three UK academies, based in Coventry, Hinckley and Loughborough.
Rosie brings a wealth of experience to PQA. A Performing Arts and Arts Management graduate from DMU, Leicester, UK, and a qualified teacher who has taught from 16 years in mainstream secondary schools and pupil referral units, teaching Drama, English and Creative Media.
As a co-director of over 25 plays and musicals in theatres, including His Majesty’s Theatre and Shaftesbury Theatre in London’s West End, Rosie brings professional expertise to her teaching experience.
Rosie says, “I have grown as a teacher and a Principal with the growth of PQA, I have been a part of the brand’s evolution and I couldn't be prouder! Students across my academies started as little 6 and 7-year-olds and I had the privilege of watching them grow into confident, talented and well-rounded young adults when they reach the end of their PQA journey at 17 or 18 years old. To play a role in young people’s lives, to help them reach their potential or realise their ambitions and talents in performing arts or a completely different field is beyond rewarding.
The decision to move to Dubai was the biggest of my life, being a mother to a 5 year old, uprooting her from everything she knows was not taken lightly. However I knew Dubai would be the most amazing place for her grow up, go to school and after repeated visits to Dubai, I couldn't shake off the need and desire to bring PQA to this huge and vibrant expat community!”
PQA and Your Child
At PQA, we are committed to providing equal opportunities for all students, team members, parents, guardians, and carers.
Our approach promotes personal growth through the performing arts, fostering both industry and life skills in a safe, creative environment where all children feel valued. We encourage teamwork, creativity, and self-expression.
We recognise the potential in every individual. Where possible, we make reasonable adjustments to support students with additional needs or disabilities, ensuring their full engagement and success.
Together, we build a supportive community where every student be their amazing self.
