Alumna Interview with Chantelle Hopkins, Director of Take A Seat Productions

Please can you briefly describe your current role?

I currently work with several schools running their LAMDA Drama programme including Streatham & Clapham GDST and Blackheath High GDST. The role involves preparing students for drama exams on a yearly basis.

I am also the Founder and Director of Take A Seat Productions, which is a children’s theatre company that run performance based events and workshops in schools and local communities.

How did Bromley High School help shape your career?

Bromley High has always been very supportive of the Arts and I spent much of my time at school within the Drama, Music and Dance departments. I really feel that the school allowed me to explore my passion, whilst also providing the foundation for my education which has helped me in both my businesses.

Bromley High School gave me the confidence to follow my chosen path; I will always be grateful for the education and opportunities I received.

What aspects of Bromley High School did you most enjoy, and find most rewarding?

For me, the opportunities we had throughout our time at Bromley High School were so rewarding.  From dance productions, the World Challenge, music trips and performances, language homestays and organising the fashion show; there was something for everyone. The opportunities were great fun but I also built on life skills, and got to really know my peers and teachers in a different way.

What is your favourite memory of being at Bromley High School?

There are so many memories, I’m not sure I could pick just one!  I remember the whole school production of Les Misérables, I think I was in Year 8 or 9 at the time and remember feeling like I was in a West End performance. The staging was incredible, and the production was like nothing I had ever seen or experienced at another school.

The World Challenge for me was also another amazing memory, from the preparation of the trip and fundraising to the adventures in the Amazon, something I will never forget.

I also fondly remember Mrs Grear’s incredible shortbread that she would occasionally bring to our A level geography lessons!

What value do you get out of your connections with your fellow alumnae?

It’s great to be part of the alumnae not just to see the incredible achievements by past students but also to connect with people in my industry. It’s wonderful to feel part of such a supportive network of women.

How have you benefited from being part of the wider GDST community?

Since leaving Bromley High School, I regularly work for the wider GDST network and really enjoy supporting the students and encouraging their growth and creativity. I remember my years at school with such fondness and I hope that I can be a part of creating that experience for the girls at school today.

Being part of the GDST community, really is like being part of a big family.