The Central Experience

Central combines the traditional methods of the conservatoire, such as personal coaching and the use of the rehearsal room as a dynamic problem-based learning environment, with a student-centred approach to active learning, involving independent study, reflection and practice-based research. We will provide appropriate learning opportunities and necessary teaching, but you will be expected to take increasing responsibility for your own learning, to the point where, when you graduate, you have the strategies to carry on learning and developing throughout your professional career.

This is all part of Central’s mission. Placing students at the centre of its work, we develop practitioners and researchers who shape the future of theatre and performance across the UK and beyond.

Returning to study

Each year people join our courses having been out of the education system for some time. You might, for example, be interested in commencing postgraduate study after ten years of working in the industry. We welcome these prior experiences, and we acknowledge and understand some of the challenges that you
may face.

Some people are anxious about academic writing; some are concerned that their IT skills need to be developed; others worry about ‘fitting in’ to a university environment. You will not be the only person with these worries. We therefore provide a series of Returning to Study support sessions during the first two terms which address these concerns and more. The sessions are facilitated by experienced tutors and are responsive to the needs of those who attend. They are also part of a wider curriculum of personal development.