Wednesday 22-04-2026 - 14:58

Cardiff-based performance students have received an update from the University about the delivery of their programmes in Cardiff.

What we know:

• The University paused recruitment for several programmes this year in Cardiff, meaning the intake had lower numbers than before.
• Some programmes in Cardiff are accelerated (meaning they are completed in two years rather than three years).
• The university has contacted students who have applied to join programmes in September 2026 to let them know that they can either join a programme in 2027 or the University will support them to find a programme at another University.
• Current students will continue their degree in Cardiff. The University is committed to students finishing their degrees.
• That the University has considered students who may not be able to complete their studies within the standard timeline.
• The letter outlines how the University will be undertaking a review of the programmes as part of the ongoing Curriculum Review.

What Rainna thinks

I understand that this news will feel unsettling for students, particularly those who chose to study performance in Cardiff because of the creative community here.

It is important to be clear that current students will be supported to complete their degrees in Cardiff, and we will continue to work closely with the University to make sure that promise is fully delivered.

Our priority is ensuring that every performance student receives a high-quality learning and creative experience, regardless of cohort size. We will continue to listen to students, raise concerns, and hold the University to account on issue such as facilities, access to rehearsal space, and the overall student experience in Cardiff.

 

What we’re doing:

• Throughout Autumn 2025, we collected feedback from Cardiff-based students about their student experience, especially in relation to the building. The University has proactively responded to this and will be making enhancements to the building over the summer. Our role is to ensure these enhancements work for all students who study in the building.
• We will have colleagues on site to listen to students and bring their feedback to decision-makers.
• We will hold the University to account for delivering a high-quality student experience for students on performance programmes, regardless of the number of students on the campus.
• We are continuing to campaign for enhanced opening hours of the building for performance students to rehearse at times that work for them.