Stage set for census

We agree that Higher Education Statistics Agency information for vocational courses often does not reflect the reality of patterns of employment for graduates of vocational acting courses ("Survey a flop, say heads", December 17). The nature of the careers of actors, dancers and artists limits the value of a census taken six months after graduation.

Acutely aware of the need for accurate statistics in this area, the Conference of Drama Schools is working to establish a credible measure of long-term employability. With the recent accelerated integration of vocational drama training into the higher education system, Hesa methodology also needs to take into account the real employment patterns in this sector.

Vladimir Mirodan Chairman, the Conference of Drama Schools