Playing Up is an OCN Level 3 accredited 9 month drama training programme, offering young people aged 19 – 24 who are not in Education Employment or Training (NEET) the opportunity to gain an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Theatre Arts, which is equivalent to 2 ‘A’ Levels.

The course focuses on performance skills such as movement, voice, devising, naturalism, scene study, improvisation and acting for screen. There is also an academic element to the course which allows you to explore theatre practitioners and undertake an extended research project. In the last term of the course the group will work towards a final production which is performed at a professional London venue.

Throughout the course participants receive a travel bursary of up to £5 per day, free theatre tickets, pastoral and academic support and help applying for higher education.

This course runs part time over 450 contact hours for 10 months October 2020 – July 2021. The course builds in intensity starting with 2 days a week from October – April and then moving to 3 days a week until June when the course runs full time for 5 weeks.

The Playing Up Company is made up of 26 members.

Eligibility

• Places are available to both NYT members and non members between the ages of 19 and 24 years old. (you must be 19 or over or under 24 on 31st August 2020)
• The course is primarily for young people who are not in education, secure employment or training or those who have missed out on gaining level 3 qualifications at school or college.
• They welcome applications from care leavers and those whose challenging circumstances may have prevented them from completing Secondary School or FE education.
• They welcome applications from those with SEND needs and those who are refugees or asylum seekers with the right to study in the UK.

https://www.nyt.org.uk/courses/playing-up