All-inclusive musical theatre school set to open
BBCAn all-inclusive musical theatre school "where everyone is welcome" is opening this autumn.
Hampshire's Kiri Golding Theatre Arts is preparing to launch a new school in Salisbury in September, which will cater for children with a range of disabilities.
Its principle Katie Hankins said she wanted to open the school after noticing there were not many classes for children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send).
"It's for anybody, no matter their age, race, culture, disability. We aim to make everyone feel included and part of a community," she added.
For the past year, Ms Hankins has run Send sensory classes from the Old Sarum Community Centre, Salisbury.
Isabel attends the sessions with her eight-year-old son who has Dravet syndrome, which causes him severe seizures.
She welcomes the new theatre school, adding that the current classes make a huge difference to her son's week.
"It's so lovely to find clubs that are accessible. This club and swimming are the only clubs I can list when people ask, what can I do?
"There isn't that much so it's great that there will be more opportunities," she added.
Before its official opening in September, Ms Hankins said there will be summer workshops, which will include special guests.
"We've got some West End professionals coming in from the cast of Hercules," she added.