These are government awards for senior pupils who want to become professional dancers, actors and stage managers. They have to attend one of the institutions in the scheme, which includes the sixth forms of some of the specialist independent schools; students are selected by audition.

DADAs are available from age 16 for dance students, 18 for acting and stage management. They cover the cost of tuition except for a contribution of £1275 pa.  There is also additional mean-tested help towards living costs for students from England, Scotland and Wales.

Contact the school direct or look at the website www.direct.gov.uk/danceanddrama.