Mandy Ellen
Principal / Proprietor
Mandy Ellen prides herself on being a very approachable principal - she always has time to listen and offer support where she can, whilst ensuring that her very high standards are maintained. She has always instilled in both her students and her team that although she expects the very best ‘learning can be fun’.
Mandy founded her school over 30 years ago, having successfully trained pupils in all aspects of dance. It wasn’t long before she realised that the next step to supporting her pupils in their chosen field was to offer full time professional training. Mandy Ellen opened her first purpose-built studios in January 2005 and following an amazing six months, decided to open the doors to her full-time performing arts college, offering pupils a local alternative to professional training without the need or expense to travel to London. As such her aim has always been to offer the very best training in musical theatre and dance but at a price that is affordable and therefore ensuring everyone has access to some of the very best training available.
Mandy is also the principal and proprietor of MEPA Academy and Mandy Ellen Kids Agency offering students from KS3 and KS4 full time academic and vocational education whilst also providing professional work for performers of all ages. Believing in unique tailored training to nurture and develop every student ensuring they have the best chances on developing their physical skill set, professional academic knowledge, and mental stability to maintain a successful healthy life in the performing arts industry. Mandy is proud to have seen students working across various sectors in the industry such as:
West End:
Billy Elliott, Matilda, Singing in the Rain, What’s love got to do with it
Tours and Overseas:
Joseph and his Technicolour Dream Coat, Moulin Rouge, Wannabe, Grease, Cats, P&O Cruises, Carnival, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean
TV & Film:
Barbie the Movie, Matilda the Movie, various music videos including Sam Smith, Robbie Williams, Shane Ward and various commercials – to name just a few!
Emma Finch
Vice Principal / Head of Sixth Form
Emma has been an integral part of MEPA College since its launch in 2006. Before joining the college, she enjoyed a successful international performance career, appearing in a variety of touring productions and working aboard several major cruise lines. This experience gave her first-hand insight into the demands, discipline and versatility required within the global performing arts industry.
Beginning her MEPA journey as a dance teacher, Emma quickly progressed to Head of Dance before being appointed Vice Principal of MEPA Training. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with the teaching staff and Management Team to shape the high standards, supportive culture and professional expectations that define MEPA today.
As Vice Principal, Emma is committed to recognising and nurturing the individual potential of every student. She champions an environment built on mutual respect, collaboration and understanding, ensuring that each learner feels supported, valued and empowered. Her leadership centres on inspiring creativity, confidence and individuality, preparing students for the diverse, demanding and ever-evolving world of Musical Theatre, Dance and Performing Arts.
Emma’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that professional training should be both rigorous and compassionate. She strives to create a learning atmosphere where students are encouraged to challenge themselves, embrace their uniqueness and develop the resilience required for a successful career in the industry.
Lewis Muir
Head of Academy / Operations Manager
Lewis has spent the last six years teaching and leading Business Studies, PSHE, Event Management and Careers Education in a local mainstream secondary school. In this time, he also also been responsible for Careers and Work Experience and Marketing. For the last four years, as part of the Middle Management Team, Lewis has been a Head of Year overseeing attendance, pastoral care, special educational needs, mental health, academic support and success, rewards and behaviour for over 150 students.
Prior to working in a school, he previously trained and worked in Early Years and was the deputy manager of a preschool overseeing curriculum and the learning environment. He has obtained his Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (and equivalent to a postgraduate certificate in education), National Professional Qualification in Leading Behaviour and School Culture as well as my Level 6 in Careers Leadership.
During his time at MEPA, he has completed his training by the Exams Office alongside Emma Finch, to conduct and manage exam arrangements for MEPA Academy as well as my Designated Safeguarding Lead training to support all students. He is also currently working towards a Level 3 in Travel and Tourism.
