Closing Season 1 of The Creatives' Corner, we had the pleasure of speaking to Dr. Sheena Calvert, a philosopher, writer, designer and artist. Sheena has a PhD in philosophy of language and aesthetics and was able to shed a light on many things, from the relationship between creativity and critical thinking, to the importance of slowing down in an increasingly fast-paced digital world. Sheena also shares stories from her project Print Matters, her passion for typography and philosophy, and why curiosity remains one of the most important skills for any creative practitioner.

On this episode of The Creatives' Corner, we speak with George Crump, once a student working through the RSL Awards grade books and Vocational Qualifications, now a working musician with their own solo project. George reflects on their education journey and how it laid the foundations for a sustainable career in music. They also share how diving into Vocational Qualifications sparked their songwriting from a young age, further leading then to play in bands and ultimately launch their own original music project.

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak with Professor Andy Stott, Head of Popular Music at the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM). Andy reflects on his career as a session drummer and percussionist, and shares the story behind RNCM’s Popular Music course - the UK’s only four-year, conservatoire-based undergraduate degree of its kind. He also discusses the role of sheet music in modern music education, and why both traditional conservatoire training and vocational qualifications have an important place in developing today’s musicians.

On this special episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we’re broadcasting live from the Music & Drama Education Expo. The conversation features Martin Wright (Director of Business Development and Partnerships at BN1 Arts) and Suzanne Parke (Leader of Learning at Peer Productions) as we explore where creative arts education stands today, and where it could be heading next.

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we’re joined by Stacey Green, Co-Founder of Shades Dancewear and the TIRED Movement.

Stacey shares the story behind her work with the TIRED Movement, the RED Research Project and the Freedom Foundation, and reflects on her experiences in the performing arts industry. We explore why uncomfortable conversations matter, how honest dialogue drives progress, and what real change looks like in dance education.

An advocate for the power of the arts to support children’s mental and wellbeing, Stacey speaks about equality, diversity and inclusion, and her mission to improve racial representation across the sector.

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we’re joined by Dr. Oliver Morris, Director of Education & Skills at UK Music. He explains why Vocational Qualifications can be a powerful alternative for young people who don’t thrive in traditional education, and why they matter now more than ever. Dr. Morris also reflects on his own journey and how returning to college reignited his love of learning. That journey eventually led him to gain a doctorate and expand his work supporting education across the music industry.

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Claire-Louise Auguste, Global Manager for Stageschool at RSL Awards, who explains how Vocational Qualifications can transform the classroom experience for both teachers and learners. She unpacks why flexibility matters, how choice builds confidence, and why giving learners ownership of their journey leads to stronger performance. Claire-Louise also reflects on the post-COVID landscape and the vital role that these qualifications play in helping students rebuild and step forward with renewed confidence.

On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Matt Griffiths, who was CEO of Youth Music at the time of recording. Matt explores the gap between young people’s appetite for music and the support structures around them, and why guidance is critical if students are going to turn passion into a sustainable career. He also reflects on how schools and colleges can better teach and inspire young musicians through the use of Vocational Qualifications.