Centre for Advanced Training - Northern School of Contemporary Dance

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Centre for Advanced Training (CAT)

The Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) offers extra-curricular programme designed to prepare young people for full-time professional dance training at university or conservatoire level.

Who Is CAT For?

CAT is open to ambitious, enthusiastic, and determined young people aged 13–16 (students can turn 17 during the year of study). No prior dance experience is required—just a passion for movement and an interest in pursuing a career in dance.

Type: Pre-vocational training, recognised by leading dance HE and FE providers
Hours: 8 hours per week, split across two evening classes mid-week and three Saturday classes

How to apply

COURSE OVERVIEW

CAT offers students a strong grounding in the technical and creative skills required for progression to full-time vocational dance training. The programme includes five core areas:

Technique: Develop skills in alignment, strength, flexibility, musicality, and placement.
Creative Dance & Choreography: Express your artistic vision through improvisation, contact work, and group choreography.
Performance: Work with professional choreographers to create and perform in the End of Year Show and sharings at Riley Theatre.
Dancers’ Health & Wellbeing: Focus on body conditioning and awareness to build resilience and fitness.
Cultural Activities: Expand your perspective through trips to theatres and galleries, plus opportunities for workshops and volunteering.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Entry to CAT is by audition. You can book directly or be invited after attending a Taster or Outreach Workshop. No formal qualifications are required.

ASSESSMENT AND FEEDBACK

CAT uses a range of assessments, ensuring students receive meaningful feedback to support their growth. Assessment methods include:

Observations of technique, creative, and performance modules
Written and verbal reflections
Individual and small group tutorials

Students work towards bespoke training plans, with targets that align with programme and module outcomes.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

Students attend classes that blend practical and theoretical learning. Weekly training includes:

2 mid-week evening classes: Ballet and fitness (1.5 hours each)
3 Saturday classes: Contemporary technique, creative/choreography, and complementary studies (1.5 hours each)

Additional training includes intensive weekend sessions and Easter/Summer workshops with professional dance artists.

WHY CHOOSE CAT AT NSCD?

Gain invaluable experience performing at Riley Theatre, our on-site venue
Work with professional choreographers and artists
Receive tailored support through personal tutorials and bespoke training plans
Be inspired by live performances from dance companies and professionals

Meet the CAT Staff

TRACY WITNEY

Head of Learning & Participation / Designated Safeguarding & Prevent Lead

EMMA PALMER

Centre for Advanced Training Manager

Tutors & Guest Tutors

"CAT taught me so much. Not only about dance and professional practice but how to develop and grow as a young artist and developing teenager...it allowed me to attend conservatoire auditions with a maturity that made me stand out from others. " CAT alumnus Sam Baxter

CAT Case Studies

SAM BAXTER

REECE MAHON

JAMES MOUNSEY

LYDIA HERBERT

Contact

If you have any questions about the CAT scheme please contact Paige Kennedy:
CAT@nscd.ac.uk
0113 219 3025

Visit the National CAT website for detailed information about the CAT scheme including finance and frequently asked questions.