Training Days
Core curriculum classes are held on Saturdays during term time. Students receive regular Contemporary, Ballet and Pilates classes where they develop their technique, body awareness, approach to dance and safe practice. They have the opportunity to explore these and other techniques alongside creative exploration.
All classes are taught by experienced tutors and artists, and many are accompanied by live musicians. In addition, the students work with visiting artists and dance companies to develop a range of skills including collaboration, performing, and adaptability.
Intensives and Mid-week Training
During school holidays students attend intensive projects to further enhance their training experience. These include working with dance artists and other performance practitioners in order to widen their exposure to current practices and artistic thinking.
Students are expected to commit to at least 1 other mid-week training session. Many students choose to access one of the associated youth companies across the region, so their mid-week activity is nearer to home.
Performance Opportunities
Students are given opportunities to perform both within the region and further afield as well as visit professional venues to see some of the leading professional performance companies touring the UK.
Individual Training Plans
Each participant has an Individual Training Plan devised in consultation with parents/ guardian and local dance teacher to support the student’s learning, and ensure a balance is maintained between the demands of school work and dance studies. This also allows dancers to reach their potential throughout their time on the programme.
Selection Process
Entry on to the Centre for Advanced Training programme is via an admissions workshop only. Admissions workshops are held annually, usually in the summer for entry onto the programme the following September.
The admissions workshop is your opportunity to demonstrate your potential by taking part in a practical dance session and creative workshop in front of a selection panel. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer places outside this process
Programme Costs
Means-tested grants are available from the Department for Education. We help successful students to access the financial support available to them.
Where does training take place
Training takes place in our state-of-the-art dance studios, at Birmingham Hippodrome
Find us here:
Level 5 Birmingham Hippodrome
Thorp Street
B5 4TB
Meet the team
Being in CAT has been an amazing experience for the past year. It has pushed me in all areas and given me the confidence I thought I never had. I started the year having not done ballet before and now I feel like I could perform ballet on stage! The staff are the loveliest and you can tell they really care about your growth as a dancer. The opportunities are amazing and broad, they have pushed me both as a dancer and person. Overall, I can’t wait for the next year in CAT!
