So you’ve decided that you want to follow your passion and study to be a dancer in further education. That’s great news – but how do you decide where to go? Of course most of the time the decision is out of your hands and you’ll have to audition for any good dance school and may only be offered a place at one. Don’t worry, we’ve made it really easy for young dancers to evaluate their options when it comes to dance in further education. Read on for our comprehensive guide designed for parents and students, to help you find the right dance college.

Firstly you should decide on your strengths as a dancer, and which styles you want to pursue. Many professional dancers studied a range of styles, and it is good to have some diversity in your course – most courses cover at least two or three styles. However, if you want to be a ballerina you will need to study at a professional ballet school, or if you have your sights set on the West End you should be considering theatre schools which teach a musical theatre style and include classes in singing and acting too.

Ballet:

Northern Ballet School

By far the most prestigious ballet school outside of London, Northern Ballet School offers a National Diploma in Dance focusing on classical ballet and musical theatre. The three year course will set you in good stead to become a professional dancer, however tuition fees are very expensive and many students are priced out of these kinds of colleges. There is funding available in a DADAs.

English National Ballet School

As the official school of the English National Ballet, this course offers incredible touring and performance opportunities in collaboration with the professional company. The full time diploma is only open for individuals aged 16-18 so this course can be an option to replace college or sixth form.

Musical Theatre/Mix of styles:

London Studio Centre

The London Studio Centre is a great all-rounder, so it’s a good option for dancers who don’t want to limit themselves to a certain dance career after graduating. It offers a BA Hons in Dance Theatre for students who have college level qualifications, or a number of Diplomas and foundation courses. The degree is split into specialisms of classical ballet, contemporary, jazz dance and music theatre. London Studio Centre designs truly versatile dancers, with alumni joining companies such as Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Scottish Ballet and Royal National Theatre.

Urdang Academy

This accredited school also offers a BA Hons in Dance and Musical Theatre or a Diploma. The full time three year degree covers dance, musical theatre and contextual studies while the diploma encompasses all aspects of performing arts including singing and acting. Urdang also has a range of different funding options and bursaries available to release financial pressure on students.

Contemporary:

Trinity Laban

The Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance is one of the best training facilities in contemporary dance in the world. It offers a (BA) Hons in Contemporary Dance, a number of Postgraduate courses and a choice of one year diplomas. Laban has been named the top university for dance in the Guardian University Guide for four consecutive years – the contemporary training here is second to none, and if you choose a degree course you are eligible for government funding as an undergraduate student.

Northern School of Contemporary Dance

Based in Leeds, the NSCD also offers a one year Foundation Course, a BA Hons in Contemporary Dance and a MA in Contemporary Dance. NSCD graduates have danced for Richard Alston Dance Company, Scottish Dance Theatre and DV8 Physical Theatre to name a few, and famous alumni includes Akram Khan.

We hope this guide has helped pinpoint a range of different training options for you or your child. There are many more professional dance schools to consider, just check they are CDET accredited. There are also many universities which offer excellent practical dance courses.