Some NCDT accredited courses at independent Drama Schools are part of the Dance and Drama Awards (DaDA) Scheme, a funding programme of the Young Peope's Learning Agency . These courses lead to diplomas awarded by Trinity College London.

Dance and Drama Awards (DaDAs) are scholarships, which were introduced to increase access to dance, drama and stage management training for talented students from all sectors of the community. They include help with both course fees and living expenses.  To apply for an award you should contact the drama school when you first apply.

Each Drama School is responsible for allocating its share of the DaDA funding, and the scholarships are given to those students who show most talent and potential at audition.  The students' financial circumstances may also be taken into consideration, but only as a secondary factor.

Those students who are offered a place at one of these independent drama schools without the specific offer of a DaDA scholarship will have to fund their own places (refer to Full Cost Or Independent Courses).

For full details of how much support is available, who is eligible, which Drama Schools award the scholarships and how to apply, go to the Direct Gov DADA page.

Students in receipt of DaDA awards are NOT also eligible for Student Loans.  They are however eligible to apply for additional means-tested hardship grants to assist with their fees and living expenses.  This is called the Income Assessed Student Support Fund. More information can be found on the Direct Gov website or phone the Learners Support helpline on 0800 121 8989.

Students from Northern Ireland can also follow this link or contact the department below:

See the NCDT accredited course list to find an accredited course which offers the DaDA Awards.