Annie-Mae is celebrating a Distinction in Dance and Musical Theatre Production and Performing Arts after a transformative time at Itchen College, where she developed her confidence, discovered what she was capable of and found a new direction for her future.
Before joining Itchen, Annie-Mae says she struggled with her confidence and didn’t always believe in herself or what she was capable of achieving. She also wasn’t completely sure what she wanted her future to look like or how she could continue pursuing her love of performing.
Her time at Itchen changed that.
Through the support, encouragement and belief of staff, Annie-Mae says she gradually found her confidence and began to realise that she could achieve things she had never thought possible.
“The journey I have been on at Itchen has helped me grow not only as a performer, but also as a person, and has given me a much clearer idea of where I want my future to take me.”
That personal growth has been reflected in an outstanding Distinction in her Level 3 Dance and Musical Theatre Production and Performing Arts qualification.
One of the highlights of Annie-Mae’s time at Itchen was the opportunity to perform the role of Billy Flynn in Chicago.
“It was an incredible opportunity to take on such an iconic role, and it challenged me to develop both my confidence and performance skills.”
For Annie-Mae, the production was made even more memorable by working alongside a talented cast and the staff supporting the performance.
Performing has always been something Annie-Mae enjoys because it allows her to connect with people, build confidence and tell stories creatively. But her experiences at Itchen have also helped her realise that her future doesn’t necessarily have to be solely on the stage.
After finishing at Itchen, Annie-Mae will be heading to the University of Winchester to study Primary Education, with the ambition of working with children with SEND and making a positive difference to their lives.
At the same time, she isn’t leaving performing behind. Alongside her university studies, she plans to continue performing by auditioning for local theatre productions.
Her journey therefore brings together two things that have become important to her at Itchen: working with and supporting others, and performing.
Looking back on her time at the College, Annie-Mae is particularly grateful for the opportunities and encouragement she received from staff.
“I don’t think I would be the person or performer I am today without the journey I have been on at Itchen.”
She hopes her experience can encourage other students who might be struggling with confidence or feeling uncertain about what comes next.
Her advice is simple:
“Make the most of every opportunity, you never know where it might lead.”
From arriving at Itchen unsure of herself and uncertain about her future, to achieving a Distinction, taking on major performance roles and securing her place at university, Annie-Mae’s journey is a powerful example of how finding your future can start with finding confidence in yourself.
As she begins her next chapter at the University of Winchester, she’ll take with her the skills, experiences, memories and confidence she developed at Itchen, while continuing to pursue her passion for performance.
