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.
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 nowWe 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:
Get in touch via cat@nscd.ac.uk for more information
Autumn Taster Day: Saturday 30th November 2024, 11am – 2pm
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:
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 nowSpring Experience Days
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:
One session will also be focused on engaging boys and providing an opportunity for them to move together in a male only space.
Book nowOur application form asks for:
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.
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.
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.
