Making the right choice of course for you is crucial.

Research the NCDT accredited courses as thoroughly as possible by talking to students and graduates and reading the prospectuses. At the same time, look into how each institution funds their courses, as this is likely to affect which you choose.

Pick the course that feels right for you, comparing your own learning aims with those of the programme. How specific or broad are your aims? How much contact time would you like? Would you like a course weighted towards music, dance or drama? Remember your choice may well affect your working opportunities later. There are an increasing number of specialized courses, geared toward screen acting, physical theatre and, of course, musical theatre.

There is a big difference between vocational training courses and the many performing arts courses on offer at universities. The Higher Education Funding Council for England funds over 2,000 degree courses with Drama or Theatre in the title. They are generally more academic and don’t aim to train people as actors or stage managers. However, some could be a useful start for a career in production or arts administration.

With this information on board, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts, taking what you can from the audition experience, the students and tutors you’ve met and all you’ve read.