Celebrating the Graduation of Our Incredible Students

Last month, I had the honour of witnessing our incredible Performance Academy students, graduate at the prestigious York Minster. This was the first cohort of this course (the only one of its kind in the country!) to graduate, so it was a ground-breaking moment for the students, myself, and for Mind the Gap.

Performance Academy, a Certificate of Education in Performing Arts Level 4, validated by York St John University, was created with the mission of unlocking the full creative potential of students with learning disabilities and/or autism. It’s a place where exploration, learning, and growth happen side by side with confidence-building, skill development, and the forging of lasting connections. Graduation isn’t just about earning a certificate; it’s a pivotal moment in time to celebrate the talented creatives our students have become.

While the journey hasn’t always been easy, watching our students face challenges head-on, overcome their fears, and grow into confident and capable creatives has been one of the most remarkable experiences in my professional career.

To the families and friends who have supported these students along the way, your belief in them has been vital to their success. Your love and encouragement have made all the difference.

And to the exceptional team of tutors and support staff, your passion and commitment has created an environment where our students have not only learned but thrived. Your impact will resonate for years to come.

To our graduates—this moment belongs to you. We are so proud of what you’ve achieved, your hard work has paid off, and graduation marks only the beginning of your bright future. We can’t wait to see what amazing things you will accomplish next. Don’t be a stranger!

Melissa Conyers, Head of Academy

Photo by York St John University