College’s New Degree Course First for South West

WESTON College has become the first Further Education College in the South West to offer a full BA (hons) Musical Theatre degree. 

The college was successful in achieving validation to run the first full BA (Hons) Musical Theatre top-up in the region.

This exciting development puts the college at the forefront of Musical Theatre with only a select few educational establishments across the UK offering this course.

This is testament to the College’s strong partnership links with Bath Spa University, the expert knowledge of the staff and the success of the Foundation Degree in Musical Theatre course that has been delivered over the last two years.

Michael L****n-Disney, Curriculum Manager for Performing Arts, said: "This fantastic opportunity demonstrates our leadership in the field of Musical Theatre and our commitment to providing high quality Performing Arts education.

"This will support the development of the Wessex Academy of Performing Arts (WAPA) which strives to provide training of an international standard, delivered by high-profile professionals who continue to work in the industry."

The first intake of students will be in September 2010 and there have already been a high number of people interested in studying this degree, based at WAPA at Weston College.

Anthony Murray, Director of Higher Education at the college, said: "This new course is another example of the college’s capabilities to deliver outstanding Higher Education.

"Our courses ensure students gain the knowledge and skills needed to work in such a dynamic and demanding industry."

In the academic year 2009/2010 a record 220 students from across the UK applied for just 28 places on the Foundation Degree in Musical Theatre course at Weston College.

There are limited places for the new top-up course also with the college already receiving enquiries way above demand.

WAPA is focused on performance skills with subjects including Performing, Acting, Dance, Musical Theatre, Singing and Complementary Studies. The College welcomes all students aged 16 or over, who have drive, determination and a desire to pursue a career in the Performing Arts industry.

For further information on Performing Arts courses at Weston College please call 01934 411 481 or visit http://www.weston.ac.uk