New script for stage training

The Arts Council is set to table plans for an interim scheme to boost funding for dance and drama training.

The move follows a decision in October that the council would use National Lottery money to assist dance and drama education, which is facing a student support crisis.

Clive Priestley, chairman of the council's working group on dance and drama training, has written to training organisations and the Council of Local Education Authorities to consult on the introduction of a temporary scheme to operate until the full funding programme is developed.

The plan is to reduce the cost of tuition for eligible students who have been accepted by colleges on the grounds of ability and merit. Funds would be directed to training schools and colleges running accredited courses.

The interim scheme is expected to operate for three years. Applications from training centres will be invited early this year so that funding becomes available in time for student entry in the autumn.

The Arts Council, which will be working with local authorities and central government on the scheme, has said it is prepared in principle to meet up to half the fee costs.