Rose Bruford College - Student View

Based on one site in Sidcup, in Lamorbey Park which is a peaceful, pretty backdrop to a hectic college life. Offers a wide range of degree courses covering all aspects of theatre practice, including both performance and production side of theatre making. Most classes take place in newly built studios, rehearsal rooms and workshops.

Two on-site theatres and a learning resources centre incorporating a library and IT facilities with friendly and helpful staff but only open 9am-7pm on weekdays.

Sidcup station is a ten minute walk from college with regular trains to London Bridge (20 mins) and local buses. Most students live locally and bike to college. Sidcup itself is a bit of a sleepy suburb and many students prefer to live slightly further afield to be nearer central London. They are a very diverse bunch, many international.

College tries to recreate the atmosphere of a full working theatre so many hours are spent on practical work. Alongside this there is an academic side to the courses so most students leave with a thorough understanding of the industry they are entering. Courses can be very tiring but there is a good sense of unity and usually the buzz outweighs the stress.

The Students' Union exists to help students through problems and to try and create a good social life for everyone, culminating in an annual Summer Ball. As the college is small, union reps are still taking their lull time courses as well as organising the union - but they manage!

College clubs and societies include a football team, a Christian Union, BMX club and adventure society. Also many student theatre companies that put on productions on campus and in London. There is a counsellor on site and a nurse who visits weekly (offers advice and obligatory condoms).

Three years at Rosie B's are hectic but happy and the unsociable hours (particularly over production projects) prepare students fully for a career in the world of theatre.