Nurturing “Success for All” Through the Arts: Ms. Laura Opperman Reflects on Juilliard Regional Training in Prague

A Global Gathering of Creative Educators

Earlier this year, Ms. Laura Opperman, Head of Performing Arts at Nord Anglia International School Al Khor (NAISAK) and Juilliard Regional Lead for the Middle East, attended the Juilliard New Teacher Onboarding Regional Workshop in Prague.

The event brought together newly appointed performing arts teachers from Europe and the Middle East to immerse themselves in the Juilliard–Nord Anglia Performing Arts Programme.

“It was inspiring,” says Opperman. “Curriculum specialists for dance, music, and drama flew in from New York to guide us through workshops and live demonstrations. We even observed real lessons at the Prague British International School, watching Juilliard specialists teach students while we reflected on their approaches.”

Among those leading sessions were Hilary Easton, Nick Mahmat, and Ashley Renee Watkins, the new Music Curriculum Specialist for the region.

Learning Beyond Comfort Zones

One of the workshop’s unique features was its interdisciplinary design — a deliberate push for teachers to explore disciplines outside their own expertise.

“Dance teachers joined music workshops and vice versa,” Opperman explains. “It was refreshing to step out of our comfort zones. It helped us understand how music, dance, and drama naturally intersect — something we aim to replicate in our classrooms.”

The event also highlighted the global impact of the Juilliard collaboration. Over the past ten years, the partnership between Nord Anglia Education and The Juilliard School has reached more than 500,000 students worldwide, fostering creativity and confidence through performing arts.

“It’s not just about teaching music or drama,” she adds. “It’s about the holistic development — skills students carry into English, maths, and science as well.”

Collaboration, Reflection, and Growth

While the Prague workshops were intensive, they also provided a platform for networking and professional reflection.

“We shared experiences over dinners and informal sessions. Seeing another Nord Anglia school in action — its setup, marketing, and community feel — was invaluable,” says Opperman.

She also led a regional workshop for Middle East participants, helping educators set performance targets and prepare for Juilliard’s 10-Year Anniversary celebrations in 2025.

“We’re planning something special — a celebration across our schools and at the Juilliard Middle East Festival in April 2025. Every teacher and student will be involved.”

Bringing Ideas Home to NAISAK

Back at NAISAK, Opperman is already translating her Prague experience into action. A major focus is on peer observation and cross-disciplinary teaching within her department.

“We want to do more ‘fishbowling’ — observing each other’s lessons to share techniques,” she says. “It’s about learning from one another, whether you’re a seasoned teacher or new to the classroom.”

Her team is also working to make the arts more visible and accessible across the school, despite logistical challenges like limited space.

“We might not have a dedicated music room, but that doesn’t stop us. We’re re-imagining spaces and thinking creatively to give students high-quality arts experiences.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Performers

The Performing Arts Department at NAISAK continues to thrive. With only three years since its drama programme began, students are already achieving at IGCSE level and participating in regional arts festivals.

“Our students amaze me every day,” says Opperman. “Their passion proves how powerful performing arts can be in building confidence and teamwork.”

Collaboration also extends beyond NAISAK’s walls — recently, students joined peers from Compass International School for World Singing Day, celebrating diversity and community through music.

A Vision of “Success for All”

For Opperman, the essence of the Juilliard partnership is encapsulated in one phrase: “Success for All.”

“Every Juilliard workshop reminds me that we all share one goal — to expose students to music, dance, and drama, and help them succeed through creativity,” she reflects.

After completing over 100 hours of Juilliard professional development, Opperman remains grateful for NAISAK’s support.

“Not every school gives teachers the chance to grow like this. I’m proud to represent NAISAK and to be part of something that genuinely changes lives through the arts.”

Looking Ahead

With new interdisciplinary projects on the horizon and the upcoming Juilliard 10-Year Celebration, the Performing Arts Department at NAISAK is set for an exciting year.

As Opperman concludes:

“We’re building something bigger than performances — we’re building confidence, creativity, and community. That’s what makes performing arts at NAISAK truly special.”