UK Drama School Survey 2026

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This survey is being conducted by The Stage in partnership with Data Culture Change to better understand experiences of drama school training and progression into the performing arts workforce.

What information we collect

We collect:

• Responses to survey questions about training, costs and career outcomes
• Optional demographic information (such as age, gender, ethnicity and disability status) to help us understand whether experiences differ across groups
• Contact details (name and email address) only if you choose to enter the prize draw and/or you wish to hear more about a subscription to The Stage.

Providing demographic information and contact details is entirely optional.

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How your data will be used

Your survey responses will be:

• Analysed in aggregate to identify patterns and trends
• Used to produce reporting and editorial content

We will not publish any information that could identify you as an individual.

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Separation of personal data

If you choose to enter the prize draw:

• Your contact details (name and email address) will be collected alongside your survey response 
• Before analysis begins, these details will be separated from survey responses and removed from the dataset used for analysis 

Contact details will be used only for administering the prize draw and will not be linked to published findings

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Legal basis for processing

We process your data on the basis of:

• Legitimate interest in conducting research into drama school training and industry outcomes
• Consent, where you provide optional demographic information or contact details

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Data storage and security

Your data will be stored securely and accessed only by the research team at The Stage and Data Culture Change.

We will retain survey data only for as long as necessary to complete the analysis and reporting.

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Your rights

You have the right to:

• Request access to your personal data
• Request that your personal data is corrected or deleted
• Withdraw your consent at any time (where applicable)

To exercise these rights, please contact: david@dataculturechange.com

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Contact

If you have any questions about this survey or how your data is used, please contact: david@dataculturechange.com

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Prize draw

As a thank you for taking part, you can choose to enter a prize draw to win one of five £50 prizes.

1. Number of prizes: 5 × £50 
2. Entry deadline: Entries will close at midnight on or before 31 July 2026 
3. Draw date: 3 August 2026 

Winners will be selected at random from all eligible entries received before the closing time and contacted via the email address provided. If a winner does not respond within 7 days, an alternative winner may be selected.

Entry to the prize draw is optional. Your contact details will be used only for administering the draw and will be separated from your survey responses before analysis.

Published 12 May 2026