Amber’s story

From Struggle to Success: A Journey of Transformation and Empowerment

My journey began at a point in my life when I felt lost and alone. It was during Year 11 when my studies and exams were disrupted due to illness. This not only knocked my self-esteem but also my value in learning. It was a very dark period as everyone seemed to be making progress while I was left behind. Moreover, school never felt like a place where I belonged. Unfortunately, I was labelled and seen as less worthy than others. I constantly questioned why I couldn't answer questions correctly, and I often wished the world would just swallow me whole.

The experience of having teaching professionals tell me that I would never go to university or that I should enter the workforce immediately because I wasn't academically capable was disheartening. When I opened my GCSE results and saw three grades, I felt an immense sense of guilt, failure, and disappointment. I've never felt so unwell, to the point where I didn't leave my bedroom for around three weeks due to the overwhelming embarrassment.

I can still vividly recall my initial visit to Chickenshed for my interview. 

One of the artistic staff members asked me, "How are you?" I replied, "I'm so excited to be here!" They then continued by asking, "Tell me about why you enjoy performing arts?" As I began to speak, a broad smile spread across their face. It was the first time I felt truly valued, knowing they genuinely wanted to hear my honest opinion. 

I am now an award-winning child specialist and inclusive practitioner in dance and entertainment across the UK. 

My dance styles include Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Ballet (with grading from the Royal Academy of Dance in classical Ballet). Additionally, I hold a first-class honours degree in playwork, which I use to teach power of play workshops to childcare professionals.

I am also officially recognised as an NSPCC champion of childhood, as well as a host and compère. I have served as a professional Porta Bandeira for Carnivals across England for over several years. Additionally, I am a lead cast member in "Day 1 Big School," an outreach show that tours different schools.

I am an energizer and entertainer who choreographs for corporate companies, using movement to create fun dances (TikTok style). An example of this is my work with Wagamama for their international and annual conferences.

I've always had a passion for working with young people and children, recognizing the value of play as a superpower.

As a result, I actively assist childcare professionals in comprehending play and learning theories, emphasizing how children can learn through play. In 2024, I will be travelling to Malawi to teach these concepts to their teaching staff from various regions.

I also maintain my role as a prominent lead performer in "Day 1 Big School" while juggling various other endeavours!