NCCA

FEDEC member since 1998

The National Centre for Circus Arts involves thousands of people in the creation and performance of circus arts each year, offering world-leading artistic and technical development for circus artists.

At the heart of its programme is three years of full-time study in circus: a two-year Foundation Degree course, with the opportunity to apply for a further top-up year to complete a BA (Hons) Degree. Its degree courses are validated by the University of Kent.

With two large training halls and a range of smaller studios, including acrobatic, aerial, sound and lighting equipment, plus a library, the National Centre for Circus Arts is very well resourced.

It runs a range of other programmes, including professional support for performers and progressive youth circus training.

Independant registration

After many years as a member of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama (CDD) we have recently been granted independent registration as a Higher Education Provider (HEP). Students enrolling from 2022/23 will complete their studies registered with National Centre for Circus Arts. Students enrolling in 2023/24 should be aware that their course will be registered independently with the National Centre. The courses will continue to be validated by the University of Kent.

Curriculum offered

• Foundation Degree in Circus Arts (Level 5*): 2 years (more info)
• BA (Hons) Degree in Circus Arts (Level 6*): 1 year (more info)

*Level descriptors as per the UK Regulated Qualifications Framework

Admission

• Applicants must be 18 or over on entry.
• Applicants will be able to demonstrate their intent to pursue professional employment in circus arts.
• Applicants will be required to demonstrate a proficiency in both written and verbal English language. For the Foundation Degree in Circus Arts this would normally be GCSE English or equivalent International English Language Testing System. Overseas students may be required to take a Secure English Language Test (SELT) prior to entry in order to meet VISA requirements.
• Applicants must fulfil parts 1 and 2 of the admissions process. If the applicant is from outside the UK or they are unable to attend an audition day they may request to submit a full video audition (instead of attending part 2), however, we recommend attending the live audition.
• There are further entry requirements for BA (Hons) applicants. Please check our BA course page for more information.

Disciplines

• Single Point Trapeze
• Static Trapeze
• Doubles Trapeze
• Hoop
• Rope
• Silks
• Straps
• Multi cord (Basic level of rope and silks required)
• Net/Loop (Basic level of rope and silks required)
• Aerial Pole (Basic level of Chinese pole required)

Acrobatic disciplines

• Hand to Hand
• Chinese Pole
• Acro Dance
• Hand Balancing
• Banquine

Banquine Juggling and Manipulation

• Ball, Club & Ring Juggling
• Hula Hoop
• Hats, cigar boxes, ball spinning and “Gentleman juggling”

Big Space*

• CYR Wheel
• Teeter Board
• Trick Bike
• Tight Wire
• Slack Rope

*Invite Only – due to varying factors students will only be assessed in these disciplines by invitation only during the specialisation module

Learn more about this member 

Management

• CEO: Kate White
• Director of Professional Development: Glen Stewart
• Head of Higher Education Delivery: Adrian Porter

School year

From mid-September to late July.

Teaching language

English (standard)

Location

National Centre for Circus Arts
Coronet Street,
London, N1 6HD
United Kingdom

CSAW Ambassador

Connecting circus students around the world

• Adam Havsky
• adamhavsky@gmail.com
• Learn more about CSAW ambassadors

Founded in 1989