Update on organisational transition at the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama

Update on organisational transition at the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama

Over the past 18 months, the Conservatoire and its Schools have been working closely with one another and with the Office for Students to move towards new arrangements, with each of the Schools pursuing an independent pathway outside of the Conservatoire. As of 23 June 2022, each of the schools has achieved its desired outcome and the transition to new arrangements will be effective from 1 August 2022.

Bristol Old Vic Theatre School is continuing its long-established partnership with the University of the West of England Bristol. Further information for current students can be found on our policies and procedures webpage. 

Following successful quality and standards reviews (QSR) outcomes from the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), Central School of Ballet, London Contemporary Dance School, National Centre for Circus Arts, Northern School of Contemporary Dance, and Rambert School have received confirmation of registration with the Office for Students, and will become independent higher education providers.

All students who are currently registered with the Conservatoire will transition to registration either with the University of the West of England, for BOVTS students, or to their School’s new registration with the Office for Students, from 1 August 2022. At that time, the Conservatoire will deregister as a higher education provider and will begin the process of a solvent winddown of its Charity and Company.

For the past two decades, the Conservatoire has provided a collegiate structure for its schools which has facilitated collaboration, sharing of learning and best practice, and the continued development and enhancement of higher education provision in dance, drama and circus arts. During this time, the higher education landscape has altered significantly, and the Conservatoire Schools are now able to take advantage of new opportunities available to small specialist providers. The Conservatoire will continue to support the Schools up to the date of transition in preparing for the next phase of their journeys as providers of world-leading higher education and training in the performing arts.