Reece Donelly talks tenth anniversary of Theatre College of Scotland: “We never want to stand still, because the industry certainly doesn’t”

From a small idea to a multi-million-pound business, the Theatre College of Scotland has grown to become an institution in its own right, currently regarded as one of the finest in the country thanks to its world-class, multidisciplinary training across stage and screen. Guillermo Nazara chats with the founder to learn about the organisation’s evolution over the years, its upcoming projects, and the real drama in today’s educational landscape.

How does it feel to be celebrating 10 years since the creation of Theatre College of Scotland?

It’s something I’m incredibly proud of. When I first started, I never imagined just how much we’d grow or the number of young people whose lives we’d become part of. Looking back over the last decade, seeing students build careers on stage, on screen and behind the scenes has been the biggest achievement. It’s a reminder that taking that leap of faith all those years ago was absolutely worth it.

What prompted you to found this school?

It came from my own experience growing up as a performer in Scotland. I loved acting and had amazing opportunities, but I also saw how many talented young people felt they had to leave Scotland to receive high-quality training. I wanted to change that. The vision was simple: create a place where students could receive world-class performing arts education while staying close to home and building connections within the Scottish industry.

In your opinion, what makes this school stand out from others in Scotland and across the UK?

It’s the opportunities and the experiences we offer, people call us ‘The Talent Factory’ in the industry, as we are known for making stars who go on and do it so well. For us, it’s always been about preparing students for real careers rather than simply helping them earn a qualification. By the time they graduate they’ve performed in multiple productions, built professional showreels and voice reels, worked with industry professionals and showcased their talent in both Glasgow and London. We treat every student as an individual and focus on helping them discover where they fit within the industry.

Is there a lack of balance between artistic educational opportunities between Scotland and other parts of the UK?

Historically, I think there has been. For a long time, there was an assumption that if you wanted the best training you had to head to London. Thankfully, that’s beginning to change. Scotland has exceptional creative talent, fantastic tutors, and a growing industry, and we’re proud to be part of proving that students don’t have to move away to achieve their ambitions.

What’s been the school’s evolution throughout its first decade?

It has evolved in ways I never imagined. We started with a vision and a handful of students, and today we’ve built a college that offers degree-level training and continues to expand its opportunities every year. Alongside that growth, we’ve stayed true to our original mission of creating an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed.

What particular challenges have you faced during this time?

Like any business, there have been plenty of challenges. Building something from scratch takes resilience, and there have been moments where difficult decisions had to be made. Navigating the pandemic was probably our biggest test, but it also showed the strength of our staff, students, and community. We adapted quickly, supported each other, and came out stronger because of it.

Apart from funding, what other challenges do you think artistic education in general is facing at the moment?

One of the biggest challenges is changing perceptions. Creative careers are sometimes seen as less secure, when in reality the creative industries contribute enormously to our economy and culture. We also need to ensure training evolves with the industry, embracing new technologies, digital platforms, and changing ways of creating work while still protecting the foundations of performance.

How has your experience in The Apprentice influenced your work in this school?

The Apprentice gave me the opportunity to step away from the day-to-day running of the business and look at everything from a completely different perspective. It reinforced the importance of leadership, trusting the people around you and making confident decisions under pressure. I came back with fresh ideas, renewed confidence, and an even bigger ambition for what Theatre College of Scotland could become.

What new projects will the school embark on in the next few years?

We have just launched our BA(Hons) programmes, which will definitely add to our portfolio of courses at degree and postgraduate levels. We will also continue to upgrade our part-time school opportunities, and I always say to do things where Scotland is noticed on a big scale. We’re always looking at how we can give students even more opportunities. That includes expanding our partnerships with industry professionals, developing new training experiences, and continuing to ensure our courses reflect the realities of today’s performing arts industry. We never want to stand still, because the industry certainly doesn’t.

What do you think it’s the key to proper artistic education?

It’s about balancing excellent technical training with personal development. Talent is important, but professionalism, resilience, adaptability, and kindness are just as valuable in this industry. Great training should give students not only the skills to perform, but also the confidence to build sustainable careers.

How would summarise Theatre College of Scotland’s legacy in these last ten years?

I hope that we are remembered at the place who has been a safe space for many and created many a household name with longevity in their career. I hope our legacy is that we’ve helped prove world-class performing arts training can thrive in Scotland. More importantly, I hope we’re remembered for believing in young people, giving them opportunities and helping them realise careers they might never have thought were possible. If we’ve played even a small part in helping someone achieve their dream, that’s something I’ll always be proud of.

All pictures credit to VRC Studios.

Further information about the Theatre College of Scotland is available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara