NSCD Centre for Advanced Training- Entry

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How to apply

Thank you for your interest in the Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) at NSCD.

NSCD aim to remove financial barriers to accessing the CAT, therefore means-tested grants are available to support the costs of the programme.

To check whether you would qualify for a Music and Dance Scheme full or part grant, follow this link.

AUDITION DATES

Saturday 8th March 2025 – Key Stage 3 & 4

Saturday 10th May 2025 – Key Stage 3

Saturday 5th July 2025 – Key Stage 4

11 – 4pm

Age 13 – 16 years

Our audition process consists of a single audition, designed to assess your potential and suitability for the course. We welcome and audition all applicants regardless of disability, ethnicity, gender, sexuality or religion.

Previous dance experience is not necessary as we are looking for young people with enthusiasm, potential and a commitment to training as a contemporary dancer.

Visit the Course information page for full course details and entry requirements.

Apply now

AUDITION PREPARATION CLASSES

We understand that auditioning can be a daunting process. Therefore, each year we hold free Audition Preparation Classes for those who feel they need more support ahead of the important day. We want young people to have an equal opportunity to share their passion and potential in a safe and supportive environment. We recommend all auditionees attend these classes to stand the best chance of success.

Booking is essential to guarantee your place and can be made when completing an audition/application form. In 2025 our Audition Preparation Classes will be on the following dates:

Wednesday 26 February, 6:15pm – 7.45pm
Wednesday 30 April, 6:15pm – 7.45pm
Wednesday 25 June, 6:15pm – 7.45pm

Get in touch via cat@nscd.ac.uk for more information

TASTER DAYS

Spring Taster Day: Saturday 8th February 2025, 11am – 2pm

Key Stage 3 & 4 / Age 13 – 16 years

Join us for our CAT Taster days and get a feel for what it’s like to be a student on our prevocational training programme at NSCD.

What to expect:

Introduction to CAT and a tour around our building exploring our studios, industry-standard facilities and theatre
Observe CAT student classes
Talk to alumni students, teaching staff and our CAT team
Practical session including contemporary dance technique & creative work
Next steps and Q&A

Places are limited, so booking is essential.

These are an opportunity for young people and their parents to gain an insight into the NSCD CAT programme.

Anyone thinking about applying for a place on one of our prevocational course is welcome to attend.

Apply now

EXPERIENCE DAYS

Spring Experience Days

Floorwork and Travelling: Saturday 18th January 2025, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
Repertoire & Performance Skills: Saturday 22nd March 2025 , 12pm – 2pm
Introduction to Partner Work: Saturday 22nd March 2025, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
Boys Only Session: Saturday 29th March 2025, 4.15pm – 6.15pm

Already participated in one of our Outreach Workshops in your school/youth group and/or attended one of our Taster Days and want to learn more about our NSCD CAT scheme?

Our CAT Experience Days provide an opportunity to build and develop specific skills that we look for in our current and prospective students and are perfect for those interested in auditioning for September entry.

Led by current CAT artists these sessions will focus on:

Technique: Floorwork and Travelling
Introduction to Partner work and Creative skills
Learning past CAT Repertoire and Performance skills

One session will also be focused on engaging boys and providing an opportunity for them to move together in a male only space.

Book now

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Making your application

Our application form asks for:

Personal details
Education
Dance experience

Audition content

On the day, auditionees take part in a contemporary technique & group creative work in the morning, followed by group interviews in the afternoon.

All participants need to learn two short exercises in advance of their audition. An introduction to the content of the video and instructions for each exercise will be available soon.

These exercises will be taught during Audition Preparation Classes for those who want more support.

Auditionees do not need to prepare an individual solo for audition.

Fees & Finance

Centre for Advanced Training at NSCD is funded by the Department of Education and offers young people the opportunity to access high-quality dance training whilst staying in full-time education and living at home. Means-tested grants are available to make the scheme accessible for all young people. For more information, visit the National Dance CAT website.

Contact

If you have any questions about the CAT scheme please contact the CAT Team:

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.