About us
Elizabeth Samuels Drama School provides high-quality drama and performance training for children and young people across Richmond and Twickenham.
Through partner-school classes and our specialist Academy at The Exchange, we combine professional standards with warmth, encouragement and individual attention.
From first steps in drama to advanced stage and screen training, we help every student make progress and feel proud of what they can do.
Exceptional training. Lasting confidence.
Our Mission Statement
“To provide a safe and supportive space where every child can grow, learn and express themselves. We believe in the power of the performing arts to build confidence, ignite imagination and boost creativity, preparing our students not just for the stage, but for life.”
What matters to us
Every child should feel safe, known and encouraged.
Teaching should be active, ambitious and appropriate for each age and stage.
Confidence, creativity and communication matter alongside performances and qualifications.
One school, different ways to take part
Convenient classes within partner primary and secondary schools, with programmes including LAMDA, Drama, Performing Arts, Musical Theatre and communication. Available only to pupils at the relevant school.
Partner-School classes
Our specialist open-to-all pathway at The Exchange for young performers in Years 3-13, with progression through LAMDA Acting, Academy Company and Elite Acting Company.
The Elizabeth Samuels Academy
Open to children from any school, our holiday programmes bring young performers together to build confidence, make friends and work towards an exciting stage performance.
Holiday workshop and camps
Led by Samuel Davis
Elizabeth Samuels Drama School was founded and is led by Principal Samuel Davis. Sam graduated with First Class Honours in Drama and completed an MA in Acting at ArtsEd. His experience spans teaching, directing and screen production, including projects for Netflix.
Winner
Best Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility - Richmond Business Awards 2025. Students have also achieved LAMDA Distinctions, gained drama scholarships and progressed to advanced training and professional work.
Loved by children. Trusted by parents.
LAMDA
“James has grown leaps and bounds in confidence. It has helped his acting and drama skills, and his conversational acuity has improved considerably. I cannot recommend it highly enough.”
— Parent
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Inclusion
“I never thought my child, who has ASD, would participate in a drama club. But one term on, they are absolutely loving it. Mr Sam and the team make the sessions inclusive and fun.”
— Mrs P
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Enjoyment
“My seven-year-old daughter has grown in confidence and found her very original and very funny voice. She calls Tuesdays Terrific Tuesdays because of drama club."
— Parent