Meet The Team At Middleweek Newton
Thomas Newton
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR | SUBJECT SPECIALIST
Tom completed his drama school education in 2001, embarking on a career in film and television that began with a casting assistant role under highly respected casting director Gail Stevens. This position involved working on several high-profile films and TV shows, both from the US and the UK. His journey in the industry continued as he freelanced for esteemed casting directors such as Nina Gold, Andy Morgan, Jeremy Zimmerman, and Gary Davy. Tom's burgeoning career led him to establish a new acting division within Cassius Management, a subsidiary of the global brand Kentaro, one of the world's foremost marketing agencies. Cassius Management's primary role was to represent and nurture the careers of both established and emerging professional actors. Tom went onto pick up credits as a writer and worked under the guidance of the late, great TV writer, producer, director Kay Mellor and other TV legend Victoria Pile, writer, director, producer of shows such as 'Green Wing' and 'Smack The Pony'.
In 2012, Tom, alongside Lucy Middleweek, his business partner, founded the Middleweek Newton Talent Management agency. The agency flourished, leading Tom to establish the MN Actors Academy. Initially serving as a feeder system for the agency, the academy has evolved into a highly regarded name for actors of all backgrounds looking for well-structured, practical courses. Specialising in screen performance, Tom and his colleague Eliot were invited by Bishopsgate School to create a filmmaking after-school club in Englefield Green. Recognising its potential, Tom expanded this venture by employing freelance staff and developing comprehensive termly class plans.
The year 2018 marked a significant milestone when Tom, along with Lucy and Eliot, transformed an old church in Kings Cross, London, into Cromer Studios - a dual-purpose facility serving as a casting and rehearsal space by day and offering screen acting classes at night. By 2019, the directors of MN had executive-produced films for both Netflix and Amazon.
A pivotal moment occurred in 2023 when MN became the UK's first Ofqual-regulated awarding body specialising in screen acting. This achievement stemmed from a conversation Tom had in 2016 with a teacher, which sowed the seed for this initiative. Sophie Holt, a dedicated MN staff member, took on the challenge and successfully navigated Ofqual's stringent application process, marking a significant milestone for MN.
Tom serves as the Subject Specialist for MN Awards, where the curriculum and its associated tasks are deeply influenced by his extensive experience. Over a decade of teaching and exploring screen acting as a discipline has shaped the foundation of the curriculum, ensuring it is both relevant and deeply rooted in practical expertise.
Eliot Hankins
HEAD EXAMINER
Eliot's career in the media industry began in 2002 when he assumed the role of Facilities Manager at The Farm Group, a renowned post-production service provider. Alongside his burgeoning career in post, Eliot was signed by The BWH Agency and he spent a couple of years auditioning as an actor for various roles.
The year 2005 proved pivotal for Eliot, as he encountered a unique opportunity to transition into production work. This shift marked a significant turning point in his career, as he chose to focus on working behind the camera, harnessing his skills and passion for the production side of the industry.
By 2010, Eliot's career had progressed, culminating in his appointment as Vice President and Head of UK Production for an Interactive TV Company. In this role, Eliot demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovative thinking, driving forward the company's production capabilities and setting new industry standards.
Eliot's left production and joined MN in 2013.
Over the next six years, Eliot's role within the company evolved significantly. His contributions, both strategic and operational, were instrumental in the company's growth and success. In recognition of his invaluable input and unwavering commitment, Eliot was promoted to Partner in late 2021, a testament to his expertise, dedication, and the pivotal role he played in the company's journey. As a Director, Eliot continues to be a driving force behind the company's innovation and success, shaping its future with his seasoned insight and visionary approach.
Sophie Holt
RESPONSIBLE OFFICER
Sophie's journey from her graduation with a First Class BA(Hons) in Dance from the University of Chichester in 2015 to her pivotal role at MN Awards exemplifies a blend of passion, expertise, and leadership. Her multifaceted career began as a part-time teacher at MN Academy while concurrently working as a freelance teacher and dance performer. This dual experience not only honed her teaching skills but also deepened her understanding of the educational landscape and how the creative arts sit within it.
Sophie's academic pursuit continued with a Masters in Creative Practice from Trinity Laban Conservatoire. By 2018, her dedication and talent led her to join MN full-time, where she managed both the weekend academy and the after-school program. It was here that Sophie's expertise in assessment began to prominently surface. She played a crucial role in MN's application to become an Ofqual Regulated Awarding Organisation, a process that demanded extensive research, curriculum development, and continuous professional development. Her relentless commitment culminated in 2023 when she successfully led the final application, securing MN's status as an Ofqual Regulated body.
Currently, as the Responsible Officer for MN Awards, Sophie is not just an in-house assessment expert; she is the cornerstone of MN's regulatory compliance with Ofqual, The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation in England. Her responsibilities are vast and pivotal, encompassing the design, development, and review of all qualifications. Her role is critical in ensuring that the standards and rigor of MN's qualifications are maintained at the highest level.
Moreover, Sophie is the first port of call for teachers and plays an instrumental role in teacher outreach. Her deep understanding of the educational and regulatory landscape makes her an invaluable resource for educators seeking guidance and support.
Additionally, her leadership extends to the management, coordination, and expansion of MN's co-curricular division and Filmmaking Clubs. This aspect of her role highlights her ability to fuse creative practice with educational excellence, making her an exemplary figure in the realm of arts education and assessment.
MN AWARDS MANAGEMENT TEAM
