We hosted our first Socrates Lecture of 2024 this week and were privileged to have Amanda Miles from My Aerial Home share her life inspiration and the transformation of her hobby.

Amanda took us through her journey, starting with initial setbacks in her career. She highlighted the importance of following one’s heart and staying committed to passions, such as her love for theatrical performance. With a career spanning 40 years in the entertainment industry—initially as a dancer, then an agent, and for over two decades as a freelance television producer, voice director, casting producer, and talent executive for Disney.

From humble beginnings with three borrowed trapezes in a local school hall, My Aerial Home moved to a bespoke facility in 2015, solidifying its position as a vital local resource. Amanda’s visionary approach and the ‘Fear Nothing’ spirit truly inspire us.

She also shared how circus training at My Aerial Home has empowered many to find confidence and joy in life. Regardless of age, strength, or flexibility, anyone can give it a try. Amanda has witnessed transformations, both mental and physical, in students aged from 2 to 83.

Amanda’s boundless energy left us all truly inspired, and our pupils engaged with numerous interesting questions about the risks involved, the height, and the requirements of strength and flexibility. As she stated in the lecture, ‘It changed my life and the lives of other people.’ She encouraged our pupils to pursue their passions and explore different paths, even when there are uncertainties. ‘Why not give it a try?’ she urged.”