Aims and objectives
• To introduce all candidates to the concepts, disciplines and career developments in the theatre industry as a whole.
• To develop a broad range of practical skills and encourage students to participate in all aspects of theatre related activities.
• To introduce students to basic actor training through a broad programme of workshop and production based experience.
• To actively support students in seeking further training in specialist areas, once the course is completed.
• To provide a safe and supportive environment for all students to explore and develop their own individual potential both in the theatre industry and the wider job market.
• To encourage team work and self discipline in all areas of work undertaken.

The course will be broken down into two or three basic terms of 12 weeks study approximately 20 hours per week. This may vary during production periods when additional time will be required.

Each term will include a programme of theatre related activities which will explore key aspects of basic actor training. At the end of the first term there will be presentations of students work in the form of informal performances. These will vary according to the directors responsible, however they will include both scripted and devised work.The second and third term will culminate in a full scale production of a play which will be directed by a professional theatre director. This will be performed at a selected theatre venue, suitable to accommodate the project.

In addition, students will be encouraged to support the other full and part time courses that the school offers. This may include some practical involvement in stage craft work such as lighting and sound, set construction, costume and props. This will only be available at set times in the year when productions are planned.A full programme of workshops will include regular classes in voice, diction and breath control. The history of theatre will be covered throughout the two terms, and specialist classes on scene study will provide a broad knowledge of writers work in historical context.The Open Access Course director will be assisted by sessional staff who will provide direct input into specialist areas of work. There will however be opportunities for students to attend certain sessions on other courses if relevant to their course of training. Each project will be headed by a professional theatre practitioner.