Introduction

The aim of the school is to offer places only to those prospective students who demonstrate that they will be able to take full advantage of the education the Sylvia Young Theatre School is able to offer. This decision will be made on the basis of their performance in auditions, the academic tests and school reports/ information made available to the school. We are committed to ensuring that admission decisions are made through a process that is free of any discrimination on the grounds of disability, race, ethnic or national origin or gender. The school must also feel sure that we are able to educate and develop the prospective student to the best of his or her potential, so that the student will have a happy, fulfilling and successful school career. These aims will continue to be met throughout the student's time at school. 

Admission Procedures

In the first instance, complete the online application form by uploading a student's latest full school report and photograph before preparing for any vocational audition.

Vocational Preparation

• Choose one of the acting pieces (supplied by the school)
• Prepare a song of your choice (no longer than one minute)
• Prepare a dance of your choice (no longer than one minute)

Applicants will also be required to take a full academic test including an English test (creative writing and comprehension) and a maths test.
Academic results and school reports must show a sufficient standard that the applicant will be able to achieve on a three-day academic programme.

Audition Dates

Thursday 12th February 2026
Thursday 23rd April 2026
Thursday 18th June 2026

Individual audition appointments can be arranged throughout the year for applicants who require an immediate start.

Open day

The School Open Day tour for prospective parents & children will take place in;
October 2026. 

Our school is unique in that the week is divided into two – Monday – Wednesday students follow their academic studies and Thursday – Friday students follow their vocational programme. 

To give you an insight into how the school operates over the week, parents will take a guided tour and view students in their vocational classes. Our Headteacher has arranged for a selection of students' academic books to be viewed, with school work to be on display and an opportunity to meet the school management team and ask any questions you may have. 

Tours will take approximately 1hr. 

Assisted Bursary Awards 2026

Celebrating Excellence in Singing, Dancing, and Acting

Overview

The Sylvia Young Theatre School Assisted Bursary Awards 2026 aim to discover and support exceptional young talent in the fields of singing, dancing, and acting. Applicants who demonstrate outstanding potential and passion for the performing arts, enabling them to pursue professional training at our school.

Eligibility

Open to UK residents aged 11–14.

• Applicants must demonstrate exceptional talent in one or more of the performing arts disciplines.
• Academic achievement within a three-day academic week.
• Bursary Awards offer partial financial assistance only.

Application Process

• Online Submission: complete the online application form – Applicants submit a short performance self tape in singing, dance and acting showcasing their talent.
• Selection Round – Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend live auditions and interviews.

Key Dates

• Applications Open: 9 March 2026
• Submission Deadline: 6 April 2026
• Audition Week for selected applicants: April 2026

Apply

Online application 

Not applicable to current full-time students