A TALENTED Hedingham student is set to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Ed Sheeran after being accepted into the Youth Music Theatre.

Sixth former, Isaac Raz, 18, had to endure a three hour workshop in February to secure his spot, and will now perform in the national performing arts company's performance of Reflections of Swan Lake.

Youth Music Theatre is widely regarded as one of the leading theatre company's for young people aged between 11 and 21, and have seen the likes of Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith pass through their doors.

Isaac is thrilled to have the opportunity to join the company and hopes this is the first step to a career within the industry.

He said: "I am really excited because it is such an amazing opportunity.

"I will be following in the steps of big names such as Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith and Charlotte Ritchie from Call the Midwife who have all started their careers with the Youth Music Theatre."

The company specialises in creating brand new music theatre and works across the UK and Ireland with leading industry professionals to offer unique opportunities and high-quality training to young singers, actors, dancers and musicians as well as emerging artists and stage technicians.

Isaac, of Wickham St Paul's, first saw the company advertised on a poster in the school drama studio, prompting his interest before later deciding to audition.

And after a successful decision, he is now looking ahead to rehearsing throughout July to perform in London at the Lilian Baylis Studio, which is part of the famous Sadler's Well Theatre.