Twickenham’s high street has struck a new chord with the opening of the UK’s first School of Rock, transforming a former Barclays bank branch into a high-energy hub for music, creativity and local jobs.

The School of Rock London is the first British outpost of the global franchise that teaches music through performance, giving students of all ages the chance to learn as part of a band and take to real stages across the city.

Behind the launch is Matias Puga-Hamilton, a drummer-turned-entrepreneur who has already opened 24 School of Rock locations across Latin America. His plan for Twickenham: to create 20–30 local jobs within the first year, from instrument instructors and vocal coaches to sound engineers and stage technicians.

It marks the start of a wider UK expansion, with additional London sites planned for 2026 and a long-term ambition to open 50 schools nationwide.

Puga-Hamilton said: “Music is an international language that changes lives. It transformed my own daughters, and I’ve seen its impact on thousands of young people. Bringing School of Rock to the UK — the birthplace of so much of the world’s greatest music — is a natural next step.”

The Twickenham venue aims to become a creative anchor for the area, offering paid opportunities for local performers and technicians through partnerships with nearby venues. Students will rehearse, gig and collaborate as part of the school’s performance-led curriculum.

Councillor James Chard described the opening as a positive boost for the local economy and “a welcome addition that brings employment and cultural vibrancy to the high street”.

Twickenham has deep musical roots — from the legendary Eel Pie Island scene that hosted The Who and The Rolling Stones, to today’s thriving grassroots venues. Now, the School of Rock hopes to build on that heritage and give the next generation the confidence, skills and stage experience to carry it forward.

The school is now open for enrolment.

To register your interest, please fill in your details here: https://www.schoolofrock.com/locations/london?labelSource=PRE