Enthusiasm and knowledge have been the key to the success of musical theatre school, The Boom Academy.

Run by owner James Lee, simply known as Mr James, and his fiancée, Miss Stephanie, from a home base in Gravesend for the past five years, it works in both primary and weekend schools.

It works closely with many academies across the county including North Kent College, Thinking Schools Academy Trust and 18 local primary schools from Chislehurst to Chatham.

The Boom Academy’s owner has performed on the West End stage in a leading role, appeared on television with Paul O’Grady and has now started a talent agency within the company, called Boom Talent.

Between them Mr James and Miss Stephanie have experience in television, West End and regional theatre, pantomime and dance. The list goes on.

Each member of the Boom team of five staff has something unique to offer and enjoy sharing their experiences with hundreds of children each week.

Recently one of the local students was invited to shoot an Asda Halloween commercial and two others have casting re-calls for School of Rock in the West End end and TV hit show Game of Thrones.

Asked why his business is different, Mr James said: “Our reviews and current customers and parents have given us the feedback to feel confident that we are different and working alongside a professional like my fiancée Stephanie is a complete experience on its own.

“We have the most enthusiastic teachers and directors. We deal with our customers on a first hand basis, face to face and leave no stone uncovered.

“We give the children an experience that makes them feel like they are the only ones in the room in a class of 30-plus.

“The Boom Academy teaches children with severe autism, Down’s syndrome and severe ADHD. None of these children are treated differently or separated from the class. At Boom we work as a team and lead from the front.

“You have to witness a class to see it for yourself.”

Testimonials are plentiful. One parent said:“Stephanie and James give every child a chance to shine, they are warm and encouraging to all children and nurture talent in all of them. They are excellent role models.”

The Boom Academy are in the Gravesham Business Awards, supported by the Messenger.