A TROWBRIDGE drama school is offering youngsters the chance to win a scholarship worth £1,000.

Stagecoach will give the prize to a child aged between six and 18 in the Wiltshire area. Entrants will have to compete in the form of three-hour classes in singing, dancing and acting between 10am and 1pm on December 17.

Two runners-up will get a half scholarship for a term.

The scholarships will begin in January next year.

The school, which opened in May 2009, is run by Frederica Dunstan.

She said: “The competition will be run by me and my team of professional teachers, who are all experienced actors, singers and choreographers.

“The children don’t need any experience in the performing arts to attend the competition. All we want to see on the day is lots of enthusiasm. The day will be great fun.

“The arts are often overlooked in the everyday curriculum, as more and more emphasis is placed on subjects like maths.

“The performing arts don’t just train students in skills such as musical theatre, but provide children with life skills so important to their development. They will develop skills such as confidence, communication skills and self-awareness.”

Parents are being asked to drop children off in suitable loose clothing and with a drink, then return at 1pm to collect them.

The school has had many accolades, including a Newcomer of the Year award.

Students have received awards at the House of Commons and have performed in the West End.

The competition will be held at the Spectrum, at Clarendon College in Frome Road.

Anyone who wants to enter can call Frederica Dunstan on 0844 335 1705 for an application form.

The applications deadline is December 11.