Young performers could get one step ahead after a prestigious arts scholarship is being offered to students at a theatre school.

Razzamataz school in Tonbridge has been invited to take part in the scholarship giving students a huge edge in the very competitive industry.

The franchise of schools has been working since 2010 to offer the opportunity to performers. The successful student is given lessons and mentoring free for an entire year.

Emma Stockton, 10, from Tonbridge, was the winner of last year's scholarship and has gone from strength to strength ever since.

She has performed all across the county including appearances at the o2 and Tonbridge Castle.

Her mum Anne said: "Razzamataz has been a delight for Emma and for me.

"In just a few months time, Emma has made new friends who share her passion for performing, further developed her skills, enhanced her vocal range and broadened her scope for acting, dance and stage performance in general.

"Emma’s confidence and stage presence have enhanced greatly and she will continue to perform."

Razzamataz was selected as the first part-time stage school to work alongisde The Stage newspaper to provide the opportunity.

The Stage is a very respected publication for the performing arts industry and many students compete for the chance to say they were awarded a scholarship in association with it.

Another student, Ella Lacey was the winner in 2012 after e-mailing a video of an original street dance routine to her school's principal. She wanted the chance to develop her singing and drama skills.

Helen Green her principal said: “Ella has grown from strength to strength since winning the scholarship.

"In her first year she was given the opportunity to attend both The Stage’s Christmas cover photo shoot and also the New Year Party.

"My ultimate dream would most definitely be to be known and recognised world-wide” - Ella Lacey

"One of her biggest achievements was being accepted by Top Talent Agency and she was also part of the cast of X+Y, a feature film to be released later this year.”

The auditions are open to current and non-Razzamataz students between the ages of 6-17.

Applicants are required to film a short demo showing them performing along with completing a short application form.

The deadline for entries is Saturday July 19.

Applicants need to submit their applications to principal at tonbridge@razzamataz.co.uk and fill in the entry form by visiting razzamataz.co.uk.