International Research Editor
Andrew Lloyd Webber calls for better support for the arts in UK schools | ITV News
Julie Spencer, director of the Andrew Lloyd Webber-backed drama school ArtsEd, has stepped down on health grounds after an independent investigation found she was running an "unhealthy environment" and bringing the institution into disrepute.
ArtsEd is a legendary British drama school, whose president and major donor is Lloyd Webber. Notable alumni include One Day star Leo Woodall and Oscar winner Julie Andrews. The school commissioned a senior lawyer to investigate after a series of Deadline stories exposed bullying and misconduct by staff and students against Spencer.
Ghazaleh Rezaie, the attorney appointed to lead the investigation, has delivered her findings to the ArtsEd board after a delay of more than three months. The performing arts school has published a summary of the investigation but will not release Rezaie's full report for data privacy reasons.
