Delivering Opera in Primary Education with RBO

A free five-day intensive course at the National Opera Studio, in partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera 

Opera singers and repetiteurs are increasingly engaged by opera companies to work in education settings. For those new to this kind of work, stepping into a classroom can feel daunting – particularly when working with large groups of primary-aged children with different abilities and levels of experience. 

This free five-day intensive course gives opera singers and repetiteurs the practical skills, confidence and knowledge to work effectively with primary-aged children. 

Delivered by the National Opera Studio in partnership with the Royal Ballet and Opera, the course combines CPD sessions, practical workshops, observation and experience in a local primary school. 

What will the course involve? 

Participants will explore: 

• Leading creative sessions: Developing skills to plan, lead and adapt workshops, with approaches relevant to both singers and repetiteurs. 

• Putting learning into practice: Leading a workshop in small groups in a local Wandsworth primary school, with support from an RBO facilitator.

• Working in education: Understanding how artists can collaborate effectively with schools, teachersand young people. 

• Working with groups: Engaging large groups with mixed abilities, confidence levels and experience. 

• Creative music-making: Using singing, music and opera to inspire and engage children. 

• Vocal and musical exercises: Accessible, age-appropriate activities for school settings. 

• Repertoire: Exploring repertoire and approaches suitable for young singers and audiences. 

Learn from experienced practitioners 

Alex Aitken, Musical Director, Pianist and Educationalist

Patrick Barrett, Youth Opera Company Musical Director, Royal Ballet and Opera

Jenny Begley, Youth Opera Company Vocal Lead, Royal Ballet and Opera

Joe Cummings, Youth Opera Company Repetiteur, Royal Ballet and Opera

Abigail Kelly, Create & Sing Artist, Royal Ballet and Opera

Dominic Oldfield, Create & Sing Programme Manager, Royal Ballet and Opera

The course offers a chance to learn, experiment and build confidence while exploring career opportunities across performance, participation, education and talent development. 

RBO Youth Opera Programme observation opportunity

Participants will also have the opportunity to observe the RBO Youth Chorus on Saturday 28 November.

The course is free to attend. 

Applications for this course are open until 16 October.

You will hear from us regarding the outcome of your application by 20 October.

Timings on school delivery days may be subject to change.