ALRA - In Depth

Founded: 1979.

Site: In listed (Grade II) Victorian building on Wandsworth Common.

How to get there: Rail (Clapham Junction or Wandsworth Common); tube (Tooting Bec); buses from central London.

Academic features: NCDT accredited acting diploma. Admission by audition and interview; experience helps. Modern approach and a concern for the individual student. Modern and classical theatre, television, radio and film; course includes improvisation, voice, movement, acting for TV, stagecraft, mime, dance, singing, radio voice-over skills, stage fighting.

Special features: Guest speakers and directors from professional theatre and related fields, including Janet Suzman, Roger Rees, Kate O'Mara, Prunella Scales, Diana Rigg, Tim Piggot-Smith, Hilary Gagan, Matthew Lassell.

Awarding body: Trinity College London.

Main undergraduate awards: National Diploma in Professional Acting (recognised by DfES and QCA as equivalent to an ordinary degree).

Length of courses: 3 years (acting); 1 year (acting; stage management; musical theatre).

Library & information services: Library with 1500 books, recordings etc. 4 computers (in library) with access to internet; IT support from 1 staff member. Induction for new students includes introduction to library and information services.

Other learning facilities: 2 fully equipped theatres; digital television and radio editing facilities; dance hall; rehearsal studios; stage management workshop; wardrobe and dressing rooms.

Careers: Information and advice given; graduation showcase for agents, directors, producers and casting agents (50% acquire agents on graduation).

Student advice & services: Information pack given to new students regarding housing, public libraries, doctors and health centres, banks etc. Welfare support system. Registrar and course director supervise welfare and progress.

Amenities: Next to Wandsworth Common; cafe, showers. Royal Victoria Patriotic Building also has wine bar and restaurant on site.

Sports: Good local sports facilities.

Accommodation: No college accommodation. Students given active help in finding self-catering accommodation locally; prices £60-£90 per week.

Living expenses budget: Minimum budget of £7000 pa (excluding tuition fees) recommended by Academy.

Term-time work: Lots available locally. Stage management students have paid industry placements; other students use careers adviser and ALRA industry links.

Financial help: Scholarships available up to full fees through Drama & Dance Awards Scheme (DADAs); smaller amounts from private sponsors, charitable trusts and bursaries.