Croydon's Comprehensive School: A Grammy-Winning Powerhouse
In a stunning testament to state-funded arts education, a Croydon comprehensive school has emerged as a breeding ground for Grammy-winning talent. The recent Grammy Awards ceremony saw two of its former students, Olivia Dean and RAYE, take home prestigious accolades, highlighting the institution's remarkable impact on the global music scene.
Olivia Dean's Triumph and RAYE's Social Change Award
On Sunday, February 1, 2026, pop sensation Olivia Dean clinched the coveted Grammy for Best New Artist. Her album The Art of Loving has dominated charts, solidifying her status as a national favourite. Meanwhile, genre-blending jazz vocalist RAYE was honoured with the Harry Belafonte Best Song for Social Change award for her powerful track Ice Cream Man. Both artists share a common educational background at The BRIT School in Selhurst, Croydon.
The BRIT School: A Free Performing Arts Beacon
Founded in 1991, The BRIT School stands as the UK's leading performing arts institution, offering tuition-free education to students aged 14-19. Its curriculum spans theatre, film, music, fashion, and more, fostering creativity across diverse disciplines. Principal Stuart Worden OBE emphasised the school's mission, stating, "We believe in creativity and that young people of all backgrounds should be able to develop their creative talent and craft and make a powerful contribution to society."
Legendary Alumni and Outstanding Achievements
The school's alumni roster reads like a who's who of entertainment, including:
- Amy Winehouse
- Adele
- Tom Holland
- Rizzle Kicks
- FKA Twigs, who also won a Grammy for Best Dance/Electronic Album
Mr Worden added, "What a celebration of free arts education from Croydon. These artists have lots in common. They work hard, they love music, have style, and they know who they are, and they started at The BRIT School."
Proven Success and Educational Excellence
The school's effectiveness is backed by impressive statistics and official recognition. Nearly 100% of graduates secure employment in creative industries or pursue higher education. In November 2024, Ofsted rated The BRIT School as 'Outstanding' across all five inspection categories. The Good School Guide noted, “You’ll find BRIT graduates’ words, music, performance, directorial and backstage talents just about everywhere you look, from fashion shows to musicals, national theatre to community arts, in the UK and internationally.”
Admissions and Future Prospects
Prospective students must demonstrate a strong commitment to the arts and aspirations for a creative career. The school admits new pupils at ages 14 and 16, providing a structured pathway into the entertainment world. This model proves that talent, nurtured in a supportive, state-funded environment, can achieve global acclaim without the need for expensive private schooling.
