From a young age, TV and film was always where my heart was. Although I trained extensively in dance, my greatest passion was acting for the screen. I was incredibly fortunate to begin working professionally as a child, performing in the UK tour of Oliver!, filming television commercials, and then making my West End debut as Veruca Salt in the Original London Cast of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
That role opened so many unforgettable opportunities. I performed at the Royal Variety Performance, appeared on BBC Children in Need, featured on Channel 4's The Sound of Musicals, and recorded the Original London Cast soundtrack. As my career continued, I was honoured to receive both The Stage Scholarship and the Ant & Dec Scholarship, before going on to appear in the feature film Just Charlie, BBC's Doctors, CBBC's So Awkward, alongside various commercials, theatre productions and screen projects. Experiencing the industry from such a young age gave me a real understanding of what it takes to build a career in television and film—and just how important the right training, guidance and opportunities are.
As my performing career developed, another dream began to grow. I founded Tia Noakes Academy, with the vision of creating a place where young performers could receive outstanding training while building confidence, discipline and lifelong memories. Watching the academy grow into one of Birmingham's leading performing arts schools has been one of my proudest achievements.
Now that the academy is well established, I finally have the opportunity to dedicate my time to something I've always wanted to do- give back to the industry that gave me so much. I'm incredibly excited to be launching TNA TV & Film Acting Academy, working alongside the amazing Kate and Meghan, who share the same passion for developing young talent. Together, we're bringing Birmingham the high-quality TV and film acting training that has been missing for far too long.
Our students will train specifically for the screen, learning the skills needed for television, film and commercial work while gaining real on-camera experience and professionally filmed showreel material.
This is only the beginning. With TNA Talent Agency set to launch in 2026/2027, our goal is to create a genuine pathway from training into professional representation, helping talented young performers take their first steps into the industry with the support, knowledge and opportunities they deserve.
Having been that young performer myself, I know just how life-changing the right opportunity can be- and I can't wait to help create those opportunities for the next generation.
TNA Acting Academies offer a fun, engaging, and supportive environment where children and young people can develop confidence, creativity, and a love for performance. Through imaginative drama games, improvisation, script work, and performance opportunities, students are encouraged to express themselves, build friendships, and discover their potential.
Founded by actress Tia Noakes, whose credits include the West End production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Just Charlie, So Awkward, Doll Factory, and national campaigns including TK Maxx, TNA brings professional industry experience into a nurturing learning environment.
Our focus is not just on creating performers, but on helping young people grow in confidence, communication, and self-belief- skills that will benefit them both on screen and in everyday life.
Our classes are energetic, welcoming and designed to challenge and inspire every student. For students demonstrating commitment, potential and a passion for the industry, there may also be opportunities to be considered for representation through the TNA Talent Agency, opening doors to professional auditions and performance opportunities.