Scarlett Smallwood, Level 3 Production Arts Practice
I first got into Aerial Arts back in 2018 when I was just 11 years old. I had seen it advertised online and was immediately desperate to try it, however my Mum took a lot of convincing as it meant she would have to drive me across the city to classes.
Before I started Aerial, I tried lots of different sports like dance and netball but nothing stood out to me like Aerial did. As soon as I had my first class I fell in love and I’ve never looked back!
To prepare for an upcoming competition I train as much as possible, as I find confidence in being comfortable with my routine. This includes me running the same routines over four times a week to make sure I’m happy with it. This also gives me the chance to fix any small mistakes like bent knees. On the day of the competition I try to chill as much as possible, often by going on a walk or listening to loud songs in the car to distract myself from the nerves.
Also, ever since my first performance, I’ve always eaten a pretzel before going on stage — I’ve had to have my “lucky pretzel” ever since (it works!).
I find balancing studies and training super hard, especially now I’m in my second year at college. I can struggle to find time to sit down and catch up with my coursework like many others in my class, as I train for Aerial almost every single day. This can often become quite frustrating as I can’t miss training when it comes to preparing for competitions. Luckily my teachers are super supportive and always help me if I’m finding it hard to juggle my studies with training.
My Mum and Dad inspire me as they always work hard to make sure I can take part in competitions and have everything I need, like costumes for performances. Their commitment inspires me to work hard and make my dreams come true, not only for myself but for them too.
I would not have been able to gain the titles of things like UK Aerial Champion if they weren’t behind me the whole time, driving me to practice and listening to me whine if I mess up or training doesn’t go well. Although a lot of people may say that their sporting idol inspires them the most, I can’t say that as I have such amazing, inspiring parents.
After I leave college, I have so many ideas for my future. Firstly I would quite like to go to a Circus Art University to gain the skills I need for the industry. A long-term goal of mine would be opening my own studio, I love the idea of being a performer but I have always wanted to make my own path in the aerial industry. I plan to save up over the next few years to make this goal possible in the near future.
I feel so supported at NSCG. I have made so many new, lifelong friends by studying here that I would never have met before. With this support, I have grown so much as a person in every aspect of my life. This is so important to me as I was such a shy girl in high school and never imagined I’d have the opportunities I do now.
