School suggestions for a girl serious about studying drama ?

[WhenICountMyBlessings]

I only know of Arts Ed as a school specialising in performing arts but which also offers an academic curriculum up to age 18.

Are there any others? Or are there any good day schools in London \ or boarding schools within an hour and half of West London which have a fantastic drama department which would be good for a girl serious about pursuing drama as a vocation?

She is 14 and wants her parents want her to also do A Levels before \ whilst studying drama.

Many thanks,

Blessings

I would agree with Zodlebud above. I'm asked this question a lot because I'm in the profession. A normal school is the best and I would advise all kids thinking of a career in the arts to study regular subjects and to read loads. The more academic the better. Find a good youth theatre nearby. Maybe take a dance class even if you aren't a dancer because your entire body is your instrument when you are an actor as well as your brain. If you can sing and play an instrument then get involved in your school activities that allow you to use those skills or find one in your local area. Most boroughs provide this type of education outreach with amazing professionals. Most of the kids and young adults I have met who come out of many of the schools and programs mentioned in this post don't often have the chops to actually cut it in the business. They are a certain type and there are lots of them. Arts Ed is very good and the academics are good, but you can access that after A level if you want a conservatory training experience. RADA, Bristol Old Vic, LAMDA, etc. Go to uni. The best actors are the smart ones and it is a long career. You definitely need your wits to survive it. At 14, I would never advise my own children to go a specialist school until they were much older.

I would agree with A-Levels then a degree from one of the very good drama courses (Exeter, Bristol, Birmingham all have very good reps) and then a postgrad at drama school. Gives you a lot more opportunity to find your strengths. I followed this route but didn’t end up going to drama school as I decided acting wasn’t for me - quite a lot of the people I studied with are now successful actors, directors, writers, stand ups etc.