Students from Sheffield came out on top to win the coveted Most Outstanding School Award in the Dragons’ Den backed theatre school franchise.

The hard working students beat off stiff competition from the other 40 schools in the Razzamataz network, much to the delight of their Principal Helen Green, who also scooped the Brand Ambassador Award.

“The most important part of all of this is the recognition for my students, and these Awards prove how committed and hard working they all are,” says Helen. “They deserve our time to coach them and provide guidance to help them learn skills and boost their confidence. My team and I give back willingly because they give so much on a weekly basis. They are proud to have Razzamataz on their T-shirts and that fills me with pride.”

The Award was judged by Andy Instone, who is considered to be one of the UK’s leading experts in street dance having danced on the main stage at Glastonbury with headline act Basement Jaxx in front of a live audience of 120,000 people. His work has been seen on 36 TV Channels, in 128 countries and by 1.73 billion people worldwide. He is known for delivering the most exciting, inspirational and authentic street dance experience possible to audiences around the world, delivered with passion, positivity and fun.

Andy was blown away by the high standard of entries at the Razzamataz Conference but Sheffield was crowned the winner because of the overall high standard in every element of the theatre school.

The judging criteria was based around a number of key elements including: achievement of pupils, quality of teaching, behaviour and presentation of pupils, leadership and management, testimonials, teaching plans, performance opportunities and customer service.

Andy praised Razzamataz Sheffield on many levels from building strong teams, teaching to the highest standards, outstanding business growth, their commitment to local marketing and providing wonderful opportunities for the students.

“Razzamataz Sheffield is doing outstanding work in many areas of their business and Helen should be incredibly proud of the school, students and team,” says Andy.

The students at Sheffield all attend Razzamataz every Saturday during term time. Ages range from just 2 up to 18 and each week they attend singing, dance and drama classes and experience a range of styles from traditional West End musical theatre to pop singing and street dance. The emphasis on the school is keeping fit, having fun and making new friends.

There are many opportunities to perform both on a West End stage and at local community events and many students have gone on to secure professional work on stage and screen.

To enquire about joining Razzamataz Sheffield email Helen on sheffield@razzamataz.co.uk. Alternatively call 0114 3030 455/ 07979189177 or visit www.razzamataz.co.uk/schools/sheffield. Classes are every Saturday in term time at Meadowhead School.