BRIDGE

The BRIDGE project allows young people to explore who they are as performers and gain valuable experience from industry professionals through high-quality tuition and guest workshops. The course focuses on developing performance skills in singing, acting, and dancing, and offers Open College Network (OCN) qualifications.

If you are a young person interested in gaining valuable experience in singing, acting, and dancing, then BRIDGE could be the opportunity you are looking for.

BRIDGE: Stepping Up
Our introductory Level 1 programme, Stepping Up, runs from August to November each year for 14–16-year-olds. Participants will complete the OCN Level 1 Award in Creative Arts and Digital Technologies. This is a unique opportunity to learn, perform, and develop your talents.

APPLY IF:

• You are curious about performing but not sure how to get involved
• You want to perform but haven’t quite had the opportunity
• You’re excited about giving singing, acting, and dancing a go — whether it’s your vibe or not

Applications open: August 2026

BRIDGE: Standing Out
This course is designed as a progression route from our in-house programme, Stepping Up. It aims to re-engage learners in education while also welcoming new participants, enabling them to embark on our open arts pathway and access the opportunities it offers.

This course runs from January to April each year for 15–17-year-olds.

Participants will study towards the OCN Level 2 Award in Creative Arts and Digital Technologies, completing the following modules: Musical Ensemble Skills and Performance Realisation Skills.

APPLY IF:

• You have some performance experience and are excited about gaining more
• You are ready to take to the stage for not one, but two showcase performances
• You are interested in further study in the arts and want support with your next steps

Applications open: November 2026

 
BRIDGE: Behind the Scenes
This project invites 14–16-year-olds to explore the hidden world of technical theatre and discover what happens when the house lights go down and the show begins. Designed for creative young people with an interest in filmmaking, lighting, sound, stage management, or marketing, this hands-on course offers a unique chance to gain practical experience while working towards an OCN Level 1 Award in Creative Arts and Digital Technologies.

Participants will gain practical experience in what makes a production work. You’ll take on key backstage roles, including programming lights, mixing sound, and running rehearsals. You’ll also step into the creative world that shapes how audiences connect with a show before the curtain rises, using photography, filmmaking, and podcasting to capture the excitement.

This course runs from March to August 2026 on Wednesday evenings initially, changing to Tuesdays from May onwards.

APPLY IF:

• You’re aged 14–16 and love being where the real magic happens — behind the curtain
• You’re curious about lighting, sound, film, or creative media and want to learn how it all comes together
• You’re ready to get hands-on and help bring a show to life

APPLY NOW via the link

 
BRIDGE: Springboard
The BRIDGE: Springboard programme is a dynamic training opportunity designed to support young people as they take their next steps as performers or prepare for further study. Through hands-on experience in a real production setting, guided by industry professionals, participants will build confidence, develop practical skills, and earn a Level 3 Certificate in Creative Arts and Digital Technologies (equivalent to an AS-Level).

The programme runs from March to July 2026 and takes place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. It culminates in a much-loved West End musical, performed over four nights in July.

APPLY IF:

• You’re ready to take the spotlight in a full-scale musical
• You want to train with professionals and earn a qualification
• You’re serious about performing or studying the arts

To apply for BRIDGE: Springboard, please register to audition via the link.