G.E.M.S Circus Arts School is a youth-focused circus school that secured multiple first place spots at a national aerial competition in Barnsley.
The school is set on delivering high-quality training in aerial arts for children and run people, running a weekly programme consisting of everything from recreational classes to ‘elite’ competition pathways.
G.E.M.S was founded by Gemma Mawson, a woman who began her circus journey at 17-years-old by joining a circus school in Bristol.
She then earned a place at the National Centre of Circus Arts in London, achieving a BA Hons in Contemporary Circus.
With professional performance experience including representing GB at the all female ‘Cirkus Prinsessan’ competition in Stockholm, Gemma holds QTS, serving as a AQA moderator for BTEC Performing Arts.
It’s said that Gemma fulfilled her dream by founding G.E.M.S Circus Arts School, blending her passion for teaching with the ‘enchantment’ of circus.
G.E.M.S also deliver workshops in schools, community settings and festivals, helping make circus arts accessible, engaging and confidence-building for a wide range of young people.
Gemma said: “Our students recently competed at a national aerial competition, where they performed across a range of disciplines including aerial hoop and silks.
“We were incredibly proud to see our performers achieve first place in multiple categories, reflecting both their hard work and the high standard of training they commit to each week.
“These results are a testament not only to their talent, but to their dedication, resilience and teamwork.”
Gemma added that it was a ‘special moment’ to see their performers step out onto a national stage with such confidence.
She said: “Seeing them step onto a national stage with confidence and represent both the school and our local community is always a special moment.
“It’s about much more than winning. It’s about personal growth, self-belief and celebrating what they’re capable of achieving.
“We believe this success is not only a milestone for our school but also a celebration of the vibrant talent within our community.”
G.E.M.S stands for grip, elevate, move and shine and in a ‘digital-first world’, Gemma states that this school provides a ‘powerful alternative’ which helps young people stay away from screens and develop physical skills, focus and self-belief.
The performers were Maddie Robbins , Bridgette Bennette, Mia Etchells , Arya Jackson and Aria Carr.