Update browser for a secure Made experience

It looks like you may be using a web browser version that we don't support. Make sure you're using the most recent version of your browser, or try using of these supported browsers, to get the full Made experience: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge.

Donate Basket {{ ViewModel.Items.length + (ViewModel.Donation ? 1 : 0) }}

Applications are open for Playing Up 2020/21

Posted 22 Jul 2023 by Joe Duggan

19-24, interested in drama and want to get back into education?

Playing Up is National Youth Theatre’s free, accredited, ten-month drama course 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.

The primarily part-time Playing Up course offers participants the chance to learn from industry professionals and work towards an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Theatre Arts, which is equivalent to 2 ‘A’ Levels.

You are eligible for a FREE place if you are:

  • 19 – 23 years old (you must be 19 or over or under 24 on 31st August 2020)
  • And you do not yet hold a full level 3 qualification

Enrolment for those that are 24 years old on 31st August 2019 or who already hold a full level 3 qualification (4 AS Levels, 3 A Levels, BTEC Nationals) is still possible. However, students in this position would require a Student Finance Advance Learner Loan to fund their place and undertake the course. This loan may be wiped if the student goes on to Higher Education and completes a higher level, qualifying course in the future. Please see here for more information.

Priority for places is given to those who fulfil the criteria stated and we welcome applications from care leavers and those whose challenging circumstances may have prevented them from completing Secondary School or FE education. We welcome applications from those with SEND needs and those who are refugees or asylum seekers with the right to study in the UK.

Apply by midnight on 3 April 2020

Launched in 2008, many graduates of Playing Up have gone onto leading drama schools, university, or have gained professional work in the theatre industry both on stage and off. Former Playing Up members include Seraphina Beh who recently played Farah in Top Boy and Ria Zmitrowicz who has recently starred in shows at the National Theatre and Almeida Theatre.