ArtsEd principal temporarily steps down as school announces misconduct investigation

London-based drama school ArtsEd has launched an external investigation, led by independent QC Rebecca Tuck. The school had not confirmed whether the allegations are related to principal Chris Hocking, but said he has stepped down temporarily to ensure the investigation is ‘as rigorous and independent as possible’

This news follows the telegraph’s investigation last week into allegations of sexual harassment at three of the UK’s most prestigious drama schools. Bullying, assault and sexual harassment allegations against major drama schools including East 15, Guildford School of Acting and the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts featured in the investigation. 

A statement on ArtsEd's website said: ‘ArtsEd can confirm that we have been made aware of allegations of serious historic misconduct. As we understand, they relate to incidents that took place between 2012 and 2017 in the higher education institution, with students 18 or older.’

When asked for a comment, a spokesperson for ArtsEd said: ‘We have today launched an external, QC-led investigation into these allegations, because we take them extremely seriously. Nothing is more important than the welfare of students at ArtsEd.’ 

‘We have set up a reporting line for students. If they have concerns about anything that has happened at ArtsEd, they can report them in a secure environment.’

‘Our Principal, Chris Hocking, has agreed it is appropriate for him to temporarily stand down, In order to ensure this investigation is as rigorous and independent as possible.'

‘These allegations are serious and deeply saddening. They go against everything we stand for at ArtsEd. They will be fully and independently investigated.’

Deputy principal Morton will replace Hocking in the short term while the investigation is carried out, and Julie Spencer, director of the school of acting, will step in as acting deputy principal. 

The school has made a new email address available for anyone to report misconduct of any kind, available on their website. 

For the full statement, visit artsed.co.uk