06:00, 16 February 2026
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
For young people, life can sometimes feel like a series of closed doors, but The Share Foundation is opening one with style, creativity, and heart.
Their latest initiative, Stepping Forward: Explore the Performing Arts, is an online programme that’s about more than just singing, dancing, or acting. It’s about giving every young person across the UK the tools to build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Previously offered only to young people in care, this inclusive programme is now accessible to all young people aged 13 to 17, as well as schools, youth provisions, and education settings nationwide. In a country where 12.5% of 16–24-year-olds are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), and where youth mental health challenges are rising, initiatives like this are more than a creative outlet — they are a lifeline.
Stepping Forward was developed in partnership with Tring Park School for the Performing Arts and the Rothschild Foundation, ensuring top-quality training in acting, singing, dance, and backstage skills. Industry professionals including Zoe Lister (Hollyoaks, The Worst Witch), Mo Jamil (The Voice UK), and Emeka Sesay (Top Boy & The Power) guide young people through themed sessions that blend practical skill-building with confidence and communication development.
Chris Kenna, Trustee at The Share Foundation and creative entrepreneur, shares a personal perspective: “As a care leaver myself, I know the transformative power of the arts. They provide a foundation for education, employment, and emotional well-being, helping young people feel valued, capable, and connected.”
What makes the programme truly special is its accessibility. While the cost is £30 per student, group discounts are available, and all proceeds are reinvested into the original free programme for young people in care.
This model ensures that everyone, regardless of background, can benefit from the creativity, mentorship, and skill-building Stepping Forward offers.
In a quote to Smiley News, Josie Rylance, Stepping Forward Project Coordinator said: “The performing arts offers young people a powerful outlet for self-expression, social connections, and is well known to help with confidence-building. When creativity is explored without pressure, it can have a real impact on mental health and wellbeing.
“Our new course, Stepping Forward: Explore, creates safe, accessible opportunities for young people to build their confidence, reduce anxiety, have fun and develop life skills that support their wellbeing both in and beyond the arts.”
The programme isn’t just about performance; it’s about life skills. From interactive quizzes and workshops to opportunities for young people to explore lighting, stage direction, and technical theatre, the series encourages exploration and personal growth.
Matthew, a 15-year-old participant, described it as “a great introduction to areas I never would have experienced before. My self-esteem and confidence have grown so much, and I’m thrilled that more young people will have this chance.”
Simon Larter-Evans, Trustee at The Share Foundation and former Principal of Tring Park, sums it up perfectly: “Performing arts is not just extracurricular, it’s a vital part of a well-rounded education. By opening Stepping Forward to all young people, we’re helping them discover their voice and build essential life skills that will last a lifetime.”
For teachers, youth workers, parents, and young people themselves, this programme is an invitation: to step forward into the future with confidence.
For all young people: find out more and register your interest here and give the video below a watch to find out more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zB-v7fEaXac
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
National Youth Theatre. This UK charity champions young people aged 11–25 by giving them access to high-quality training and opportunities in theatre and the performing arts, regardless of background. Learn more here.
National Dance Institute. Based in the United States, this non-profit uses dance and music to support children and young people, helping them build confidence, creativity and life skills through performance. Discover their work here.
Australian Theatre for Young People. This Australia-based charity nurtures the next generation of performers and storytellers by providing theatre programmes, creative development and performance opportunities for children and young people nationwide. Find out more here.
This positive news article aligns with the UN SDG Quality Education, Reduced Inequalities.
Photo credits: The Share Foundation
