A TRIO of students are determined to pursue careers in performing arts after they were given the chance of a lifetime to dance on stage with popstar Katy Perry at this year’s Brit Awards.

Jack Speck, Henry Race and Reuben Sands, who attend Stagestruck Academy, in Frinton, danced to the American pop icon’s latest single Chained To The Rhythm in front of a star-studded audience.

They spent four days rehearsing at the 02 Arena in London alongside stars such as Little Mix, Robbie Williams and Ed Sheeran, who all performed at the awards which was broadcast on ITV to more than five million people.

The students, who are all 16 years old, hope to carry on their careers in the performing arts industry full-time once they have completed their training and studies.

Tendring Technical College pupil Jack Speck, of Frinton, said: “It was an experience I will never forget and it has made me realise how much I want to work in the performing arts as a full-time career.”

Reuben Sands, of Great Bromley, who is under alternative provision with Essex County Council, said he has always wanted to follow a career in dancing.

He said: “This experience showed me at a young age what the industry is like and the amazing jobs you can do and sometimes resulting in meeting incredible people.”

Henry Race, from Harwich, who attends Harwich and Dovercourt School, said: “It was amazing getting a real feel of what the industry is like and how a real job works.

“It was also great to work with professionals and to meet so many famous people.”

Former Stagestruck Academy pupils Charlotte McGrath and Olivia Dooley also performed as dancers at the event.

Stagestruck Academy principal Simone Castle said: “This has been such an exciting experience for the boys who have said it has been one of the best experience of their lives.

“To have the chance to perform alongside their idols has given them a real taste of what being a professional dancer is all about.”