Scher class

The inspiring drama teacher who transformed working class talent into some of Britain's best actors

- EMILY RETTER, LYDIA VELJANOVSKI

In their own words, "Anna's kids" were rough around the edges. They weren't kids with plummy voices and the self-confidence to match. They certainly didn't tend to be jazz hands kids, the kids of thespians, or luvvies.

The children who attended Anna Scher's theatre school in Islington, North London, founded in 1968, were generally working class, and with little intention of becoming actors or famous. In the 1960s, in fact, some could barely read.

Yet scores of them, taught by the industry legend who died last week aged 78, went on to become Britain's biggest and brightest names in TV and film.

Among this Who's Who of entertainment are Kathy Burke, Martin and Gary Kemp, Patsy Palmer, Daniel Kaluuya, Linda Robson and Adam Deacon.

All agree they wouldn't be where they are today without this indomitable Irish Jewish woman who nurtured their confidence, cherished their class and roots and allowed them to shine.

Another student, EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy, 40, who like the rest paid pocket money for Anna's tuition, says she will always feel grateful.

"For three hours a week I felt like I mattered, along with everybody else in the room," she told the Mirror. "Anna took me under her wing, and was stern, but kind.

"She saw something within this funny-looking little eighty-year-old that no one else did.

"Without Anna Scher I wouldn't be where I am.

"Anna's kids have something others don't. It's a raw, 'I am who I am, I'm nothing special but I'll give it a go'. We don't have airs or graces. We are very grateful and thankful."