Gareth Arthurs

Meet our new Acting Tutor at Middlesbrough College, Gareth Arthurs.

Gareth was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, but his family moved back to the UK in his early childhood, so he has resided here most of his life. Growing up Gareth had always had an interest in the arts, and after he left school, he attended the Grimsby Institute where he gained a BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts.

In his early career, Gareth toured in pantomimes with a theatre company, before moving on to work as a male vocalist and presenter at a holiday park. In his final year there, he was promoted to assistant manager of the entertainment department, where he put on shows and ran the kids club.

Then Gareth decided that he wanted to inspire the next generation and become a drama teacher in a secondary school, so he applied to do a Higher Education course in teacher training at Middlesbrough College. Gareth also completed his teaching placement here, which is when he fell in love with teaching at the College.

Gareth said: “It’s so nice to teach students who are passionate about the arts and actually want to be in the College and learn. I was also really inspired by my mentor, and now fellow colleague, Steve Pollard. He has such a passion for the arts and for working with the students as well.

“The facilities are also great here, which helps to create great production value, and allows students who are passionate about the arts to explore that interest down many different avenues.

“I also think it’s great that Middlesbrough College hire industry professionals to teach their students, it gives the students a better taste of professional life and some experience with someone who has lived and worked in the industry.

When asked what he would say to someone thinking about applying for a job here, Gareth said: “Absolutely do it! Working at Middlesbrough College will change your mind set about education and teach you so much. I’ve already learnt so much in the short time I’ve been here, both about education and the performing arts industry.”

Outside of College, Gareth is a family man who still immerses himself in the arts, and he and his wife are expecting their first child this year. Gareth teaches at local stagecoach schools in Guisborough and Darlington on the weekends, and, alongside his father-in-law, Gareth is also in a comedy double act called Tickled Trout Productions. They specialise in family entertainment and do a blues brothers’ tribute act.

Looking for a role at the Middlesbrough College Group? Take a look at our latest job vacancies here