Playing Up is a practical ten-month part-time drama training programme that offers young people aged 19–25* who are not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) the opportunity to gain a Level 3 qualification in drama. The programme is a Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma in Theatre Arts, accredited through OCN London and delivered in partnership with United Colleges Group.

The course runs from October 2026 to July 2027 at NYT’s building on Holloway Road, London. The programme builds in intensity, beginning with two days a week from October to March, then increasing to three days a week until June, when the course runs full-time for five weeks.

Places are available to both NYT members and non-members between the ages of 19 and 25 years old, *or up to 30 for those with learning disabilities.

Priority for places is given to applicants who are not in education, secure employment or training, or those who have missed out on gaining Level 3 qualifications.

Applications are welcomed from care leavers and individuals whose challenging circumstances may have prevented them from completing Secondary School or FE education. Applications are also welcomed from those with access and support needs, refugees or asylum seekers with the right to study in the UK, and those who are underrepresented in the industry, including individuals who identify as neurodivergent, disabled, or from the Global Majority.