FOUNDATION YEAR TRAINING
The Foundation in Musical Theatre is a one year programme designed to develop skills in preparation for auditions for further training and study.
Students learn through a balanced programme of core training in acting, singing and dance technique along with developing artistic and creative individuality. The timetable for the course comprises of core compulsory sessions (for example Jazz, Singing, Vocal Repertoire, Acting, Creative project) with optional classes selected to enable students to devise their own training programme. With 15 compulsory contact hours per week, this course also allows students to take additional classes alongside the course. ESPA offers a variety of additional classes, and top up packages are available to develop a 5 day a week schedule.
As part of the Foundation course, students will work towards their Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Performing Arts (General Pathway) allowing for an academic development alongside the practical training. This enables students to access finance through Student Finance England.
Performance opportunities are provided throughout the year, including a showcase and a full scale musical. All classes are taught by industry professionals who are highly experienced in their specialist field. A variety of guest workshops from current industry professional will also be on offer throughout the course.
ESPA Student Destinations:
Arts Educational School London
Mountview
Italia Conti
Bird College
Royal Central School of Speech & Drama
Oxford School of Drama
Midlands Academy of Dance & Drama
SLP
LIPA
Liverpool Theatre School
Emil Dale
Addict
Stella Mann
I have seen great improvement since starting the Foundation training course in September. Not only in my overall ability as a performer, but my life skills as a person. As a Level 3 student, I thought my only way to continue was by going to university or drama school. I knew that I wasn’t ready to pursue that sort of education. I also wanted to study in an environment with smaller classes, more one to one and in depth teaching. By doing this I have been able to advance much more than I would have done in a large group. I have been taught to work professionally and to the best of my ability. A high percentage of my classes are practical, which is what I love, but still learning a great deal from my theoretical lessons. I am being taught by experienced industry professional who I trust, I study with people I love to be around and in a place where the skills I have learnt will last forever.
Without the incredible training I received and the people at ESPA, I would not have been accepted on to the
BA (Hons) Course at Bird College Conservatoire of Musical Theatre and Dance.
Luke Duberry
2018-2019 - Foundation Training/Higher National Certificate