Why is there now a charge for these arts activities? They used to be free.
Recent service reviews showed this arts provision to be very good with some outstanding features giving valuable opportunities for young people. Acknowledging the serious financial constraints facing the authority it was necessary to introduce a nominal charge to contribute towards its running costs but Notts Performing Arts still remains subsidised and fully supported by Nottinghamshire County Council.
My child is 7 years old but in Year 2 – can they join?
Notts Performing Arts is open to students from Year 3 and above to join a Saturday centre. Please apply once your child has completed Year 2. However, the companies are for older children - Year 5 and above for the Training Band and String Group and Year 7 and above for all other companies.
My child has special needs – can they join?
Yes provided they meet the eligibility criteria and Notts performing Arts has a Support Assistant to work with them if needed. Please clarify any support that may be required in your application so we can ensure your child fully participates.
My child has special needs – why are they are on waiting list?
Notts Performing Arts has a large number of Support Assistants who work with children with special needs so they can fully benefit from the arts opportunities on offer. We also regularly recruit new staff to respond to the high level of new starters and from time to time do not have staff cleared to work to meet the demand. Students will be placed on a waiting list in strict order of application and contacted once a new Support Assistant is available to work.
When can my child start?
Once your application is confirmed and payment made your child can start on the first week of the new term or the first week after half term.
Is there a uniform – do they have to wear certain clothes?
NPA students should wear clothes they are comfortable in and for dance students clothes that they can dance in.
Are the staff CRB checked?
All NPA staff are enhanced CRB checked as are all the parent helpers who work in the Saturday morning tuck shops. These checks are re-done every three years.
Are there opportunities to do exams?
NPA offer Bronze and Silver Arts award on Saturday mornings. The Gold Arts Award can be undertaken if they successfully audition for an NPA Company. See www.artsaward.org.uk for more details.
We live in Nottingham city and my child attends a Nottingham city school. Why does it cost more?
NPA provision is subsidised by Nottinghamshire County Council for students who live or go to school in the county of Nottinghamshire.
My child will be absent for one week. Who do I tell?
You can tell the Group Leader of the Company or you can telephone the NPA office on 0115 977 2782. Please note that regular absences will mean your child can not participate in performances.
Can I get a refund if my child changes their mind or starts and then decides they do not want to stay for a term?
The nominal cost covers the registration charge and part of the cost of the first session booked. Payments are non-refundable.
My child has a medical condition. Are staff trained to administer medication?
None of the staff administer medication. If you child cannot self medicate then you can come into the rehearsal and administer it to your child yourself. Please contact the NPA office on 0115 977 2782 if you wish to arrange this.
My child already belongs to one NPA company. Can they belong to another one?
Yes they can. Please contact the NPA office on 0115 977 2782. It may be possible for them to join another company without audition.
Do I have to get my child to and from the performances venues?
If the performance is on a school weekday NPA will arrange transport from your child’s home/school directly to the venue in time for the rehearsal. You will need to collect your child at the end of the evening but it is likely you will be watching the performance. If the performance is on a non-school day/weekend you will need to transport your child. It may be possible to car share with other group members.
What does my child wear for performances?
The Group Leader will confirm the performance dress. Dance/Drama will be in costume. Musicians will either be in all black - shirt/trousers/skirt/ dress or with a white shirt.
What does my child have to do for an audition?
It depends on which company your child is auditioning for. Full details regarding the audition will be sent out should the application be successful. Auditions take place during the normal rehearsal time of the company and usually involve participation in the part of the rehearsal and a 1:1 prepared audition piece.
