Street/ festival/ circus arts

Circus Space’s circus degree has been nothing if not controversial since it was launched in 1999. Some called it ‘vacuous’ (former chief schools inspector Chris Woodhead), whilst the QAA, the body that safeguards standards in higher education, gave the course top marks.

The Circus Space is one of Europe’s top three-circus training centres. It offers both Foundation Degree and Honours Degree level qualifications in Circus Arts, accredited by the University of Kent.

The courses aim to enable students to gain an understanding of, and experience in, the broad range of skills needed to create innovative and excellent circus, while achieving a high level of individual expertise and performing ability in a particular circus discipline such as trapeze, tightwire or juggling.

However, the courses also encourages the exploration of new ideas and the creation of a new skill type or discipline would also be considered.

Kent University itself offers a course in creative events, which includes modules on street arts and circus.

Other courses

Most circus training isn’t degree based. The Circus Arts Forum has lots of good information about other courses and training.

Find out more

Read about the circus degree on Education Guardian.

Where can I study this?