Do you know a young person passionate about the performing or production arts who wants to take it further?

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is running four, free, part-time courses for young people who see their future on stage or behind the scenes.

Part of RCS’s Get Into programme, the courses act as a taster – opening the door to everything from acting and theatre-making to lighting and camera work – to give young people an immersive experience in the arts.

The weekly courses, which run on Saturday mornings from September to December, are aimed at secondary school pupils in S5 or S6 or young people 16+, and those up to 25 who are in further education. RCS is specifically targeting people from widening access backgrounds who face barriers to accessing arts training.

The Get Into courses are:

• Performance (acting, devising and dance)
• Production for Stage and Screen (sound, lighting and camera)
• Singing Together (confidence building and vocal leadership)
• Community Arts (leading creative projects with communities)

The Get Into programme is delivered by Widening Access to the Creative Industries (WACI), part of RCS’s Fair Access provision. Fair Access at RCS ensures that people from all walks of life can study the performing and production arts and reach their full potential. It’s underpinned by a belief that the arts need voices from different backgrounds – and where the whole of society is reflected.

Fair Access offers a variety of funded opportunities for young people in Scotland, supporting them in their journey to study the performing and production arts at college, university or conservatoire level.

“The Get Into programme is a perfect pathway for those considering a future in the arts,” said Louise Brown, Fair Access Outreach and Engagement Officer at RCS.

“The courses are for those interested in exploring the performing and production arts and who want to take that next step. And experience isn’t essential, we’re looking for enthusiasm and curiosity.

“They’re designed to build confidence and develop skills, working alongside industry professionals and RCS teaching staff, in a supportive and welcoming environment.”

Here’s what past participants have to say:

“This has been life-changing for me. I’ve learned so much and it’s shaped everything I want to do!”

“Get into Production filled me with inspiration.”

“I’m so happy I got to experience these sessions because they are changing my life.”

“I’ve learned so much, have a stronger passion and know more about what I want to do with my future.”

“I can’t put it into words, but it became the highlight of my week very quickly, it just became the best thing, I loved it so much!”

Register interest for the Get Into courses at bit.ly/get-into-24