Playing Up is an accredited ten month drama training programme by the National Youth Theatre offering young people aged 19 - 24 who are not in Education Employment or Training (NEET) the opportunity to gain a Level 3 qualification in drama.

Playing Up runs every year, on the ground in London, and generally runs from Oct-July. 

Applications for Playing Up 2021/22 will open in January 2021 

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. 

This practical drama 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.

Priority for places is given to those who fulfil the criteria stated and we welcome applications from care leavers and those whose 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.

Am I eligible for a free place?
Places are available to National Youth Theatre members and non-members.

You are eligible for a FREE place if you are: 

19 – 23 years old and You do not yet hold a full level 3 qualification

Enrolment for those that are 24 years old 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.