St Martin's College, Swatar, recently held its annual week-long drama trip to London, enabling a group of 60 students aged 10 to13 to experience what being a performing arts professional is all about.

The college has been holding these visits for the past four years in collaboration with Pineapple Performing Arts School, one of London's leading acting, singing and dance studios.

The students attended a number of classes with professional actors, dancers, directors and performing arts specialists throughout the week as well as workshops in a number of disciplines including character, voice, street dance, hip-hop and mime.

The group were also taken to watch several West End shows including Lord of the Rings, Blood Brothers and Billy Elliot, and went backstage after the shows to appreciate what goes on behind the scenes of top London musicals. On one occasion they also met up with members of the cast. This trip has become a yearly highlight in the school's scholastic calendar and the increase in the number of participants is clear testimony to its commitment to the performing arts.

The college has also set up a drama fund to help students with their travels. Since its inception the fund has already given out over €11,000 in sponsorships and study grants.