Testimonials

Students tell us that in addition to having an amazing time and learning new skills, they gain self-confidence, a sense of community and connection, and an opportunity to indulge their passion with like-minded individuals. Many also tell us that for the first time in their lives they feel accepted and free to truly be themselves.

Parents tell us that they witness remarkable personal growth in their children and are incredibly grateful for the unique learning opportunity NYDS provides.  Also that their son or daughter simply won’t stop talking about NYDS and can’t wait to come back next year!

Teachers tell us that students return to school post-NYDS as more inspired, self-assured, passionate and motivated learners. They also tell us that this energy in turn inspires other students, actually making their job in the classroom easier.

But don’t take our word for it, check out the testimonials below…

  • On behalf of our six kids who attended this year, a BIG THANKS to everyone at NYDS!!! They were blown away and came back inspired, fulfilled and buzzing to share their new skills and confidence with their peers, our school at large and our local community. Most of them slept until 1pm on Monday to catch up, but all had a wonderful time and were extremely well looked after. Well done and again, thanks for everything!

    Vicki, HOD The Arts, Blue Mountain College, Tapanui, West Otago

  • If you could have known our son before NYDS, you would not believe it was the same child. We saw such huge personal growth in our son, in confidence, self-awareness and belief—and the change in his personality was almost instantaneous. This is where he ‘fits’. This is his life unfurling before our eyes. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

    Ursula, parent, Hawke’s Bay

  • Not only did I gain an amazing skill base, but I also gained a sense of myself. I met some of the most amazing friends and it is fantastic being around a group of 250 like-minded people. For the last year I have been trying to find myself and NYDS helped to finalise that for me. Words can’t even begin to explain that heart surging rushing warm feeling I get when I remember back to my week at NYDS.

    Tessa, student, Nelson

  • Amazing tutors with so much knowledge. It was so much fun and I learnt more than I ever could outside of NYDS. And it felt like a family.

    Iana, student, Auckland

  • My tutor’s level of expertise was fantastic and his enthusiasm and energy helped me get out of my comfort zone and really try new things.

    Lilly, student, Hawke’s Bay

  • When I’m at NYDS, I feel like I’ve found the one place I really belong.

    Brody, student, Hawke’s Bay

  • My son just arrived back home in Golden Bay, elated and exhausted after his second time at NYDS. Thank you NYDS for providing this enriching opportunity, and thank you to the wonderful billet family for taking care of him.

    Bronwynn, parent, Golden Bay

  • I gained friends, skills, fun, everything I could ask for. Over the past 3 years I have gone from a shy kid to someone who is really outgoing, and I thank NYDS for my confidence.

    Rory, student, Oamaru

  • I learnt to stay true to myself in acting. People often think that acting is putting on some sort of mask, when it’s not. It’s conveying the truth in your character and in yourself in every way possible!

    Ruby, student, New Plymouth

  • It was the first time my daughter had been away from home with people she didn’t know. She felt from day one, included, well informed, busy and had to learn more about managing self and time, while having a blast. She loved every minute of her week with you guys and can`t wait for next year. Thank you.

    Liz, parent, Rotorua

  • My tutors were incredible. They combined the necessary theory with physical exercises, which reinforced what we’d learnt. The class explored an aspect of theatre I thought I’d never even go near, but now I can’t imagine ever performing without using the techniques and skills I’ve gained from them. So inspiring.

    Luke, student, Whangarei

  • Probably the best week of my life. I’ve never met a group of people who were so passionate about the arts. Both the tutors and the students taught me so much – and I’m confident in saying I’ll never forget this week. Thank you for giving us this opportunity! I cannot wait for next year.

    Victoria, student, Queenstown