PERFORMERS are finding West End stardom after completing their qualifications in musical theatre.

The Colchester Institute graduates have gone on to perform in well-known shows and global TV series.

Patricia Allison has appeared in the BBC One series of Les Miserables, playing the role of Marguerite.

She is also starring in the new Netflix series, Sex Education.

Patricia, who studied musical theatre, said: “The college was the first taste of what was yet to come in terms of my drama training.

“I learned an immense amount of discipline, whilst exploring my inner creativity.

“It was so exciting to come straight out of school and into a vocational acting course, I felt I had definitely taken a step in the right direction.

“Being amongst like-minded peers was a joy.

“They, like my tutors helped shape my short, but sweet time there.”

Her latest role is in Netflix series Sex Education, which is about a socially awkward high school student whose mum is a sex therapist.

She said: “Sex Education has had such a wonderful reception, there’s a lot of people who love it.

“I am grateful for the response, it’s great to know you’re part of something that resonates with so many others, especially when the writing is so spot on.

“Being part of such a talented diverse cast makes it all the more exciting.”

Nova Hughes, course leader

at the college, said there is a

family atmosphere and students keep in touch for years after leaving.

The college’s alumni has a long list of West End credits including degree graduates Karis Jack, who has starred in the West End Les Miserables and Little Shop of Horrors, Lukin Simmonds in the Book of Mormon, and Fred Smiley who was part of the Kinky Boots tour and Michael McIntyre’s Big Show.

Graduates from further education courses include Reece Kerridge in Shrek the Musical and the film Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again, and Freya Brown, who was in Matthew Bourne’s production of Romeo and Juliet.

Andy Edwards, musical theatre course leader, said: “It is an absolute joy as a course leader and tutor to see graduates succeed in the performing arts industry.

“It is a very tough industry to break.

“The graduate success from our degree course is down to a hard working staff team, student discipline and determination as well as excellent opportunities offered to the students whilst training.”