For many young people pursuing a future in the performing arts, access to high-quality ongoing training, mentorship and career-defining opportunities can be few and far between. In an industry where opportunities to grow, train and gain real experience can be limited, these moments can make all the difference, yet they are not always easy to access. That’s why Razzamataz continues to stand apart, placing investment in its students and teachers at the very heart of what it does.
Creating Life-Changing Opportunities
Committed to nurturing talent and opening doors, Razzamataz is proud to create life-changing experiences and is now delighted to announce the winner of an incredible competition to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to New York. Razzamataz is celebrating the success of one of its dedicated team members, as well as highlighting the incredible opportunities available across its growing network for teachers, team members and franchisees.
Meet the Winner: Tash from Tonbridge
Tash, Assistant Principal at Razzamataz Tonbridge, has won an exciting competition that will see her accompany students on a once-in-a-lifetime educational enrichment trip to New York. The experience will give students the chance to explore iconic sights, take part in masterclasses with performing arts professionals, and enjoy the magic of a live Broadway show.
Tash trained at The Arts Educational School and Central School of Speech and Drama. Her previous accolades include being nominated for a BCA British Citizen’s Award by the Tonbridge parents for her services to the local community during COVID. She was also thrilled to be named “Best Team Member” across the entire Razzamataz network at the Razzamataz Awards in January 2023.
A Journey Through Razzamataz
Tash’s journey with Razzamataz is a testament to the long-term opportunities available within the network. She first joined in 2016, working with Razzamataz Overseas at a holiday village in Portugal, before becoming part of the Tonbridge school in 2017. Alongside her role, she continues to work as a professional performer and behind the scenes in TV and film, demonstrating the flexibility and career development the network supports.
A Passion for Teaching and Creativity
Reflecting on her time with Razzamataz, Tash says: “I love seeing the students develop because I’ve known them most of their lives and now they are going off to university, picking GCSE and A Level options, driving, and one is joining the navy, which feels very bizarre.”
Although she enjoys many aspects of teaching and being the assistant Principal, her passion for creativity is central to her role as she explains: “I love having this creative outlet especially during the shows where it can really come to life as I get to offer my input in everything from lighting to costumes and setting.”
The Winning Idea
The New York opportunity came through a social media competition, where the winner was decided by the most viral TikTok video. Tash worked collaboratively with her students to brainstorm ideas, eventually creating a fun concept around finding unusual items in a fridge, which gained over 10,000 views. “I’m very grateful to them for their input and creativity and we all had a lot of fun doing it. I just thought, I’ve never been to New York before so why not give it a try.”
A Network Full of Opportunity
For Tash, this opportunity highlights what makes Razzamataz unique. “That’s the thing with Razzamataz, whether you are a Principal or a teacher, there are lots of opportunities that you can take advantage of. There are also lots of professional development opportunities such as the Creative and Careers Development Day that supports learning. I feel very lucky to be part of a network with these sorts of opportunities and to win this incredible trip to New York.”
Looking to the future, Tash has ambitions to continue progressing within the organisation. “In years to come I would like my own franchise when I’m a bit older and more settled but for the moment I love being second in command in my role.”
Her advice to others within the network is simple but powerful: “Give it 100% as you want your students to do, give it all a go and take advantage of all the opportunities that are available as you never know where they might lead.”
Making the Most of Every Moment
Tash can’t wait to join the Razzamataz students heading to New York and understands the importance for them to go and grab hold of every moment to not only have the best time but to learn valuable life skill as she adds: “Go and enjoy it with an open mind and try everything. Make the most out of every second at Razzamataz whether you are going on the trip to New York or performing in your local community. Razzamataz is not just for people that want to work professionally. It will grow your confidence and life skills, giving you self-awareness and self-worth, which are so important as young people grow.”
As for the trip itself, Tash is excited to experience the city she has long seen on screen. From Central Park to the Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building to the bright lights of Broadway, she is looking forward to soaking up every moment.
A Culture of Growth and Opportunity
Tash’s competition win reflects the wider ethos of Razzamataz, a network that not only nurtures young performers but also supports its people with meaningful opportunities, professional development, and the chance to create unforgettable experiences. For Principals, it offers the tools to stand out in their local communities, while for teachers and team members, it provides a pathway filled with creativity, growth, and possibility.
Join our award-winning networkNo business experience, no problem. We have a wide range of successful franchisees who choose an award-winning franchise network because of the huge amount of support available. The passion and dedication they bring to their schools every day combined with our support and training is what makes them succeed. If you are curious to find out more, contact our Head Office or book in a Discovery Den: https://www.razzamataz.co.uk/discovery-dens/
