Jess Blackledge

Jess Blackledge is an experienced arts educator and creative producer with a focus on accessibility and engagement in the arts for young people. Currently serving as the Learning Officer at Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society since July 2022, Jess oversees relationships between the festival and schools, enhancing teacher engagement and promoting arts accessibility for children in Scotland, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Previous roles include Creative Producer at Theatre Royal Plymouth, where Jess led a national youth performance project, and Assistant Director at Writing Through, facilitating creative writing workshops globally. Additional experience includes communications and fundraising at Anjali House, curriculum development at Malaysian Child Rights Institute, and advocacy at Women’s Aid Organisation. Jess founded Ahimsa Yoga, providing yoga and meditation to marginalized communities, and holds a Bachelor's degree in Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts from Aberystwyth University.