Kerry Peberdy

Since leaving the theatre arts school (Laine Theatre Arts) I attended from leaving school aged 16 until I was 19 years of age, I have worked in the entertainment industry. Whilst studying on the musical theatre course at Laine Theatre Arts, I trained in dance and singing. On graduating (1995), it soon became clear that my height would be a hugely influencing factor in my being able to work professionally as a dancer, despite my ability.

Fortunately, I was always a strong singer and decided therefore, to pursue a career as a performing singer. For the last 30 years, I have worked as a professional singer and have been fortunate to work in most areas of the music industry. Predominantly, this work has focused on the world of popular music and musical theatre. I have worked on stage productions, touring shows, cruise ships, a host of corporate and private events and am proud to have performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the UK, along the way.

I’ve travelled the world with my work and have performed the length and breadth of the UK, mainland Europe, the Middle East and the Caribbean. As with most entertainers, I have also performed on Television and taken part in the making of music videos too. For the past 25 years or so, I have been based in the North East, where I’ve worked both as a solo singer and also as part of many ensembles.

In 2001, I had the opportunity to join the teaching faculty of Middlesbrough College teaching both in the Performing Arts and Music departments. It was whilst teaching there that I decided to formalise my teaching practice and attained a Certificate in Education through Huddersfield University. I remained at Middlesbrough College until 2005 in a part-time capacity after which, I took up a full time post at Redcar and Cleveland College, teaching performing arts. Sadly, Redcar College chose to cease delivering Performing Arts in their newly built facility one year later. I made the decision then and as a consequence of the apparent frailties surrounding the delivery of performing arts courses in further education to focus on teaching myself in an attempt at retaining some control for my potential for employment.

Since then I have been taught for local projects called 'School of Rock and Pop'. Whilst initially established to help youngsters aged 10 -16 learn to play musical instruments in a band setting, their work soon branched out into primary schools. At its height, I was working in more than 20 schools throughout an academic year.

I’ve worked n many of the schools over the years, currently I teach privately, I have a purpose built singing studio at home and have approximately 40 plus students of all ages and abilities. The demographic of the students I teach ranges from 6 to 85 years of age. I also have a number of students with personal, learning and/or confidence issues. They appear to take great comfort with how I work with them and I’m extremely fortunate to receive a great many unsolicited and extremely flattering testimonials on my google review page.

In addition to my one to one teaching, I also work for an adult learning service (Circle Of Life). The members of the group have a very wide range of physical and mental disabilities. I thoroughly enjoy this work and throughout the last 10 years I’ve seen many positive changes from the individuals that I teach. Singing and helping others reach their potential is a huge passion of mine. I have a great conscience and enthusiasm for my work,

I’m extremely reliable and I work hard to get the very best out of my students, regardless of age or ability. I believe the position at Yarm School not only suits my skill set, but will also present me with a new professional challenge. Likewise, I’m confident that my experience and background will enable me to really help those students choosing to study singing with me. I’m familiar with the school having performed there many times.