Children across Oldham will have the chance to try TV and film acting this half term through a free programme designed to open up opportunities in the performing arts.

Sarah Byrne Acting Academy (SBAA), supported by Oldham-based Applauz CIC, has secured further funding to deliver its acting for TV and film programme during the October half-term.

The programme will run at Positive Steps in Oldham from Monday, October 26 to Thursday, October 29, giving eligible children the chance to experience acting in a professional and supportive environment.

Places are open to children living in Oldham postcodes who receive free school meals. Numbers are limited and parents and carers are being encouraged to apply early.

It follows a summer of Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) provision delivered by SBAA and Applauz CIC in partnership with Oldham Council. About 40 children attended the summer workshops each day, with the programme culminating in a showcase performance for parents on the final Friday.

Sue Burns, Co-director of Applauz CIC, said: "Sarah and I were absolutely thrilled with the take-up for the summer programme.

"The feedback from parents was lovely, and every single child threw themselves into the workshops, they were engaged, curious, and clearly loved every minute.

"Holding their interest like that is exactly what we set out to do, and it's what makes us so excited to bring this opportunity to even more children in October."

SBAA is headed by Sarah Byrne, who hails from Lees. The academy has already helped nurture young performers who have gone on to appear in professional productions.

Its current students include Harley Hamilton, who has appeared in Emmerdale, Erin Hall from High Hoops, Abbie Ashworth, who has appeared in music videos featuring Myles Smith and Stephen Graham, and Phoebe Weston, who appeared in Werewolf. Students have also featured in multiple television adverts.

For some children the workshops will be their first opportunity to experience performing arts and learn about the TV and film industry, something which can otherwise be difficult to access without the cost of private drama classes or existing connections to acting agencies.

The October programme forms part of Applauz CIC's wider work to make performing arts education more accessible to children and young people across Oldham.

To apply, visit https://eequ.org/book/sarah-byrne-acting-academy-oldham-haf-with-applauz-cic-30569. For more information or to book a place, contact Sue Burns from Applauz CIC via WhatsApp on 07803 230999.