The Creatives' Corner
Welcome to The Creatives’ Corner, the podcast presented by RSL Awards, where we shine a spotlight on the people shaping education in the creative arts. Each episode, we sit down with educators and practitioners to explore how creative qualifications empower learners, open career pathways, and support the next generation of talent.From music to performing, our guests share insights, stories, and best practices that highlight why vocational qualifications matter – and how they can transform both teaching and learning in today’s creative industries. Whether you’re a teacher, student, or simply passionate about the arts, The Creatives’ Corner is your space to l...
Creative Futures Live: The Creative Futures Conversation
On this special live episode from the Creative Futures Conference, we bring you The Creative Futures Panel - a conversation featuring Dr Stephen Partridge (University of Hertfordshire / Kave Space), Laura Nicholson (One Dance UK), Hannah Phipps (DBS Institute), and Phil Nelson (BIMM / Pathways to Music). Together, they dive into the role the creative arts play in shaping confident, capable young people, and why Vocational Qualifications remain such a vital route for learners aiming to build real careers in music and the wider creative industries.
Ben Thomas: Preparing Young Musicians for the Industry
On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Rag’n’Bone Man's drummer, Ben Thomas, who explores why Vocational Qualifications offer such a powerful pathway for young musicians stepping into the industry. He discusses how the Rockschool Diploma equips students with the skills, discipline, and real-world awareness needed to navigate today’s music landscape. Ben also reflects on his own journey into session drumming, the value of learning-by-doing, and how vocational training encourages young musicians to self-reflect and truly excel on their instrument.
Mia Bird: Why Vocational Qualifications Empower Performing Arts Students
On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Mia Bird, the founder of BN1 Arts in Brighton, who shares her inspiring journey from a working-class background to becoming a leading voice in arts education. Mia opens up about why vocational qualifications are vital for young people in the performing arts, and how they impact students in ways traditional education can’t. Hear her insights on how the arts play a crucial role in shaping resilient and confident performers.
Norton York: How Rockschool Grades Transformed Music Education
On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Norton York, founder and chairman of Rockschool, as he shares his remarkable journey from studying classical music in the 1980s to creating Europe’s first dedicated pop school. Norton explains why Rockschool grades matter, how the UK led the way in shaping global popular music education, and why vocational qualifications are so important for young performers.
Jason Knight: How Vocational Pathways Lead to Careers in Music
On this episode of The Creatives’ Corner, we speak to Jason Knight who reflects on why vocational qualifications give young people the best foundation for university and a future career in the arts. He explains how college courses help students to network, build confidence, and to work in the industry. He also shares how the band Reef first came together through their music college experience.
