Why After-School Activities Matter

Hobbies like performing arts aren’t just a “nice extra.” They give children space to:
Express themselves outside the classroom.
Build friendships beyond school.
Switch off from academic pressures.
Gain skills that support their education.
When balanced well, hobbies can make family life more enjoyable rather than more stressful.
Top Tips for Busy Families in Hertfordshire
Here are some practical ways to make it work:
1. Plan the Week Together
Sit down as a family and look at the calendar. Children are more committed to their hobbies when they help plan their time.
2. Keep Bags Ready
Have a dedicated bag for performing arts with comfy clothes, water and snacks – no last-minute panics.
3. Use Travel Time Well
If you’re driving to classes in Hitchin, Letchworth or Stevenage, bring homework or reading for the car. Siblings can get their tasks done while waiting.
4. Treat Class as “Me Time”
For parents, waiting during rehearsals can be a chance to read, catch up on emails, or simply take a break.
5. Remember the Big Picture
Yes, weekends and evenings are busy, but the confidence, resilience and joy your child gains will last far longer than a busy term.
How Performing Arts Fits into Busy Lives
Parents often ask how a typical week at Theatretrain looks. Here’s what to expect:
Weekly classes on Saturdays in Hitchin, Letchworth and Stevenage.
Each session covers singing, dancing and acting in one place – no need to book three different activities.
The structure means children learn a variety of skills without extra time pressure.
For many families, this “all-in-one” approach is exactly what makes Theatretrain manageable.

Local Centres and Times
We run taster sessions every week across our Hertfordshire centres:
Theatretrain Hitchin – Saturdays, Hitchin Girls School (9.30am-12.30pm)
Theatretrain Letchworth – Saturdays, St Christopher’s School (9am-12pm)
Theatretrain Stevenage – Saturdays, Marriotts School (1.30pm-4.30pm)
Wherever you’re based, there’s a friendly class waiting for your child to try.
Life is busy, but the right activities can actually make family routines more enjoyable. By choosing performing arts classes in Hitchin, Letchworth and Stevenage, you’re giving your child a chance to grow in confidence, make new friends, and develop skills that last a lifetime – all in a single weekly class.
If you’d like to see how easily it can fit into your family’s schedule, a taster session is the perfect first step.
Find out more about our
amazing performing arts classes here
Theatretrain Hitchin
Saturdays
Hitchin Girls School
9.30am-12.30pm
Theatretrain Letchworth
Saturdays
St Christopher’s School
9am-12pm
Theatretrain Stevenage
Saturdays
Marriotts School
1.30pm-4.30pm






