The National Youth Theatre's Stepping Up course is now open to applications!

Stepping Up is a free 3-month acting and leadership programme for young people who are looking to enhance their skills, learn in a supportive environment, and build meaningful connections within a creative community. 

As Stepping Up is an accredited course, run by National Youth Theatre in partnership with UCG (United Colleges Group), participants are able to achieve an OCN London Level 2 Extended Certificate in Performing Arts, as well as become a National Youth Theatre member.

Key Information:

- The course runs every Monday & Tuesday between 19th October 2026- 26th January 2027.

- Each week participants have one 10:30-4:30 session and one 10:30-8pm session. Tea, lunch and dinner breaks are included throughout the day.

- There are 2 strands (Actors & Leaders).

- Classes take place in the National Youth Theatre's base on the Holloway Road, N7, London.

Acting Pathway

(2 days/evenings a week on a Monday, & Tuesday or Tuesday and Wednesday if Bank Holiday week).

For young people who are new to performing and/or want to increase their confidence and performing skills. You will participate in units that include acting skills, improvisation, and physical theatre and you will perform in a final show at the end of the course.

Leadership Pathway

(2 days/evenings a week on a Monday, & Tuesday or Tuesday and Wednesday if Bank Holiday week.)

For young people who have an interest in performing and becoming facilitators in the future. The Leadership strand combines practical acting training alongside learning directing and facilitation skills, including increasing your knowledge of planning and delivering drama workshop and rehearsals. Units include Improvisation, Physical Theatre, Devising and Rehearsal Planning.