Are you a young person aged 11 to 18 or up to 23 with disabilities and love to dance? The Centre for Advanced Training programme (CAT) is here to help you take your skills to the next level.

This programme is all about identifying and supporting young people who have a passion for dance, offering high-quality training and opportunities to work with people from all sorts of backgrounds.

Who Can Join the Centre for Advanced Training Programme?

You can join CAT between the ages of 11 and 16 and stay on until you are 18 years old. Our programme focuses on contemporary dance styles and is based across the Midlands, with training taking place in either Birmingham or Nottingham.

How to Join the Centre for Advanced Training Programme

Getting into CAT is simple and fun!

First, there’s GetSet. These are monthly workshops we host for those with little to no experience in dance or just want to develop their dance technique and creative skills further.

Along the way you’ll:

• Build confidence and develop your dance skills
• Learn more about the CAT programme
• Meet the friendly CAT team
• Prepare for our annual admissions workshops

Second, we host admission workshops once a year for ages 11 to 16. During these workshops, you’ll showcase your potential by participating in a practical contemporary dance class and a creative workshop.

This all happens in a supportive and encouraging environment. Furthermore, no previous dance experience is necessary. We’re looking for raw talent, enthusiasm, potential, and a commitment to training as a dancer.

What’s the Centre for Advanced Training Programme Like?

As a CAT contemporary student, your journey with is split into three parts:

1. Weekly weekend training – every Saturday, dive into contemporary, ballet, and Pilates with professional tutors in either Nottingham or Birmingham.
2. Mid-week training, where you commit to attending one other training session. most students access an associated dance company across the region.
3. Intensives: during the spring and summer school holiday, intensives bring you together with national and international artists to create pieces for an end-of-year show.

Beyond the Programme

CAT isn’t just about dance classes; rather, it’s a chance to grow as an artist and as a person. You’ll get to experience:

• Trips to the theatre and performances

• Workshops with inspiring guest artists

• Opportunities to perform regionally and beyond

You’ll also be part of a creative, curious, and passionate community of dancers who support and motivate each other.

The Centre for Advanced Training Team

Throughout your time with CAT, you’ll receive guidance from our incredible team and tutors. They’ll help you balance school, dance, and your other hobbies.

You’ll also get to meet and make friends with other amazing students from across the region who will support and encourage you throughout your time on CAT.

Life After CAT

The CAT programme sets you up for long-term success in the dance world. Many of our alumni have trained at prestigious institutions like Trinity Laban, Northern School of Contemporary Dance, and the Royal Conservatoire Antwerp.

Graduates have also danced with top companies like Tavaziva Dance Company and 2Faced Dance Company, with some even becoming finalists on BBC Young Dancer!

Our current and previous students have some amazing stories about their time on the CAT programme. Find out more about their time on CAT here.

Are You Ready to Join?

If you’re excited to explore your dance potential and join a passionate community, the Centre for Advanced Training programme is perfect for you. We host various workshops and open day events throughout the year that offer a taste of the programme before our admissions workshop.

Keep an eye out for these opportunities and get ready to start your amazing dance journey.