The Board of Trustees of The Oxford School of Drama are delighted to announce that Edward Hicks has been appointed as the School’s Principal and will take up his new role in August 2019.
Edward has been RADA’s Head of Film, TV and Radio for the last 11 years. Edward’s tenure as a senior member of staff at RADA saw the design and development of a new media curriculum for both acting and technical courses. During this period RADA films have been selected for film festivals (including BAFTA, ASFF, Washington) and broadcast on Amazon Prime and students have won 14 prizes in ten years in the BBC Carleton Hobbs Radio Competition. Edward’s position at RADA was a new one, created with support from Warner Bros. (UK) and he was a key player in the creation of the Warner Bros. Creative Talent Programme. Edward also established new partnerships with industry bodies such as Directors UK and introduced new sponsors. His teaching career spans almost two decades, including six years at East 15 Acting School from 2002 – 2008. Edward began his career as a child actor appearing the West End, for the Royal Shakespeare Company and in numerous television roles.
Edward said, “I am humbled and delighted to be joining the Oxford School of Drama as the new Principal from August. OSD is a true gem with an impressive reputation and I feel very privileged to be inheriting this inspirational school from George Peck, who will be much missed by all. I have been overwhelmed by the warmth of the welcome from students, staff and Trustees and very much look forward to moving to Oxford with my family, to join the wider school community, and lead the school forward in the years to come. “
Peter Wilson-Smith, Chair of Trustees of The Oxford School of Drama said, “We are thrilled that Ed is joining as our new Principal. He has a vast range of experience in the profession as an actor, director and teacher and a huge passion and commitment to actor training. He will provide great leadership for our students in the years ahead.”
Edward’s predecessor in the role, George Peck, founded The Oxford School of Drama 33 years ago. George will become Founding Principal of the school when he retires in August 2019.
