Bristol Old Vic Theatre School Ends Undergraduate Programs
One of the UK’s most renowned drama schools, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, known for producing Oscar-winners like Olivia Colman, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Jeremy Irons, has made a significant announcement. The school, founded in 1946, has decided to discontinue its undergraduate programs due to financial difficulties.
Financial Challenges Lead to Closure
The decision to shut down the undergraduate training program comes as a result of various financial challenges faced by the school. Factors such as capped student fees, restrictions on international student visas, cuts in grants, and rising costs of living and teaching have all contributed to this difficult choice. Starting from September 2025, the school will no longer offer undergraduate degrees.
Fiona Francombe, the principal and chief executive of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, explained, “We are facing unprecedented funding challenges, and our current training model, focusing on teaching undergraduate degree courses, is no longer sustainable.” Despite this setback, the school remains committed to providing high-quality postgraduate training and other courses to its students.
Future Plans and Continued Commitment
While the undergraduate programs are coming to an end, the school will continue to deliver postgraduate courses, including various master’s degrees in acting, voice studies, screen acting, drama directing, drama writing, and performance design. Additionally, short courses will still be available to those interested in honing their craft at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.
Francombe emphasized the school’s dedication to creating a long-term sustainable future, ensuring that the quality of training for current students will not be compromised. The school is working closely with the University of the West of England, its degree-validating body, to guarantee that students can complete their courses as planned.
Legacy and Moving Forward
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School has a rich legacy of producing exceptional talent, including actors like Patrick Stewart, Erin Doherty, and Stephen Dillane. The school aims to continue this tradition as it embarks on a new chapter in its history. Trustees are focused on exploring options to maintain the school’s reputation for excellence in dramatic arts training for years to come.
While this decision marks the end of undergraduate programs at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, it does not impact Bristol Old Vic Theatre, a separate organization since 1986. The school remains committed to supporting its existing students and staff during this transition period, ensuring a smooth and successful completion of their studies.
As we reflect on the legacy and impact of Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, we are reminded of the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges. The school’s commitment to providing exceptional training and nurturing talent is unwavering, setting a strong foundation for future generations of performers to shine on the global stage.