In September 2005, Central School of Speech and Drama (CSSD) will become the first specialist drama institute to be admitted as a College of the University of London. CSSD will join other renowned arts colleges, including the Royal Academy of Music and the Courtauld Institute of Art, as Colleges of the University. The addition of CSSD brings an even greater diversity to the University of London's world-class federation of 20 Colleges and nine Institutes. The Vice-Chancellor of the University of London, Sir Graeme Davies, stated that "The admission of the Central School as a College of the University is a significant step forward. The CSSD brings to the federation nationally and internationally recognised excellence which very substantially enhances the available expertise in the University in theatre and related subjects."
Founded in 1906, CSSD is a leader in the field of drama in all its forms, whether in acting, theatre design, directing, writing or producing. In 2004 it gained the right to award its own degrees and in 2005 became the only drama school to be designated by HEFCE as a Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. The School, whose alumni include Laurence Olivier, Judi Dench, Vanessa Redgrave and Harold Pinter, will celebrate its centenary in 2006. For further information about the Central School of Speech and Drama please visit their website (external link).