Balham students – where they are now!

Jigsaw Balham has been running in the heart of the community on a Saturday morning for 21 years. At Jigsaw we celebrate all our students, no matter if they come along wanting to pursue a career in the arts, or just come along to build confidence, make friends and find their place to belong. Our manager Emily, thought she would reach out to some of our fab ex students to see what they have been up to since they left Jigsaw Balham.

What are you doing now? 

I am currently studying Theatre at The Brit School in Croydon.

What has been your biggest achievement since leaving?

 I landed a supporting role in a No.1 Netflix original Series alongside Michelle Keegan and Joanna Lumley.

What is your favourite memory from Jigsaw? 

Probably my final performance of Finding Neverland, or singing the unique Balham birthday song!

What are you wanting to do once you finish at the Brit school?

 I think I am going to take a year off to spend some time auditioning for more professional roles and networking, whilst hopefully working part time. If not, I may start applying to drama schools.

If you could sum up your time at Jigsaw Balham, what would you say?

 Inspiring, brilliant, rewarding and enriching!

What are you doing now? 

I am in my second year at Birmingham University studying Sport and Exercise Science. 

What has been your biggest achievement since leaving? 

I have recently launched my own business. It is a concierge company covering event tickets, sports tickets, drivers, flights, personal shopping etc. It is called OD Exclusive and I will be launching the website and social media soon! 

What is your favourite memory from Jigsaw? 

As far as favourite memories go, that would be too hard to pick. What I really did enjoy was the whole school productions we did once a year. When all the age groups, including the little ones, all got together and put on a great show for the parents, friends and family.

What are you wanting to do once you finish university? 

After I graduate, I would like to continue running my company and hopefully launch some more in the future that relate to my degree!

If you could sum up your time at Jigsaw Balham, what would you say? 

If I had to sum up Jigsaw Balham in a few words, I would say: game changing, loving and a blast-honestly!

What are you doing now? 

I am currently in my last year, studying Marketing and Advertising at Lancaster University.

What has been your biggest achievement since leaving? 

 My greatest achievement so far was getting into my first choice uni and (hopefully) graduating from it!

What is your favourite memory from Jigsaw?

 I loved my time at Jigsaw! I looked forward to Saturdays, not only to see my friends but also be taught a variety of new singing, dancing and acting techniques by the amazing teachers.

What are you wanting to do once you finish university?

I want to go travelling and then find a full time job in marketing.

If you could sum up your time at Jigsaw Balham, what would you say? 

I loved it! 

What are you doing now?

I am studying sociology at the University of Leeds, alongside  working part time as a Teaching Assistant.

What has been your biggest achievement since leaving?

My biggest achievement since leaving Jigsaw has probably been getting my A Level results and getting into University, especially as I sat them during COVID. I got an A* in Sports Science, A in Chemistry, and B in English Literature

What is your favourite memory from Jigsaw?

I really enjoyed my time at Jigsaw, I remember my favourite part was always the dance sessions. But, my best memory was when I sang duet to ‘What is this feeling?’, which I really enjoyed and it helped build my confidence. 

What are you wanting to do once you finish University?

I am planning on training to become a primary school teacher! 

If you could sum up your time at Jigsaw Balham, what would you say?

Fun, Sociable and Character building.

What are you doing now? 

 I am currently at the University of Glasgow, in my third year, doing History of Art undergraduate studies. 

What has been your biggest achievement since leaving Jigsaw?

My biggest achievement since leaving Jigsaw has been getting into University and the work placements within my course. 

What’s your favourite memory/memories from Jigsaw Balham?

 My favourite memory from Jigsaw was the singing lessons and when we put on our version of wicked, when my best friend and I, Josie, played Elphaba and Glinda. 

What are you wanting to do once you have finished?

After I finish University I would love to work within the arts, in a gallery or museum, or I would like to apply for drama school.

If you could sum up your time at Jigsaw Balham, what would you say?

I would have to say character building, fun and memorable!

Click here to learn more about the weekend performing arts classes at Jigsaw Balham.