Tomassi's School of Performing Arts/Drama School Cornwall, Newquay
Stagecoach Performing Arts Buckingham, Buckingham
Stagecoach Performing Arts Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare, Aberdare
Stagecoach Performing Arts Faringdon and Highworth, Swindon
Stagecoach Performing Arts School Macclesfield, Macclesfield
Stagecoach Performing Arts Keighley and Skipton, Skipton
A drama school provides training in acting and performance, and this directory lists 106 drama schools across the UK. These range from part-time youth theatre groups and evening classes to vocational institutions preparing students for professional careers. This guide helps aspiring performers, parents, and adult learners understand what drama schools offer and how to choose one.
Drama schools teach skills such as acting technique, voice, movement, improvisation, and audition preparation, often alongside performance opportunities. Provision varies from children's and youth classes and recreational adult courses to full-time vocational training and degree-level programmes. Some prepare students for graded speech and drama examinations, while others focus on stage and screen craft. They suit anyone from a child exploring performance to an adult pursuing acting seriously.
Browse all 106 drama school listings across the UK above.
Be clear about whether you want a recreational class, exam preparation, or vocational training, as schools differ sharply in purpose. Look at the age groups and levels they teach, the experience of their staff, and whether they hold performances or offer showcases. For vocational study it is worth checking accreditation, audition requirements, and progression routes. Visiting, attending an open day, or trying a taster session helps you judge whether the school fits your goals.
If your interest is dance rather than acting, approachable styles such as ballroom, salsa, or beginners' ballet are good starting points. Some drama schools include movement or musical theatre classes that introduce dance alongside performance skills.
Light movement and dance can be beneficial for some people with heart conditions, but it depends on the individual. Check with your GP or cardiologist before taking part and mention any concerns to your tutor.
For movement or dance sessions within a drama course, wear comfortable, flexible clothing and footwear you can move freely in. Tutors will usually advise if particular kit is needed for physical work.
Recreational drama and movement classes often cost around 6 to 15 pounds per session, while vocational training and degree courses are priced very differently. Costs vary widely by provider, level, and whether the course is part-time or full-time.