WHEN the summer term begins there will be over 560 Stagecoach schools throughout the UK; an impressive growth record considering that 18 years ago there were just three in Surrey.

The fact that Britain's largest part-time theatre school is now established in almost every town or its vicinity is an obvious pointer not only to its popularity but also to its system of teaching which appeals to students and parents alike.

One of the main attractions is that the centres are part-time, offering a bridge between school and full-time training - a chance for a child to follow their dreams but at the same time keep their feet firmly on the ground.

Young people aged six to 16 are taught by staff with professional backgrounds on a rotational basis - each student gets an hour of drama, dance and singing at every session. Alongside this runs 'Early Stages', shorter 90-minute sessions for four- to seven-year-olds, and all this provided under one roof, saving on cost and travelling time. Classes are held at weekends out of school hours and are deliberately kept small so children receive the attention they need.

There are no high-pressure auditions at Stagecoach - enthusiasm and commitment are all that's needed, and sessions are designed to build confidence and develop communication and creativity through the medium of theatre and performance skills. Although Stagecoach is open to all young people with an interest in the performing arts it does provide opportunities for some to perform professionally and students have found success in film, television and on the West End stage.

Parents are kept in touch with their child's progress and twice a year get to see their classwork. Occasionally schools come together for community events and the annual showcase production draws its cast from students throughout the network. There has been an increase in large national events bringing Stagecoach students, parents and school principals together. Many high-profile events and exciting developments are in store for this year.