Enriching lives through dance
Our Centre for Advanced Training provides access to world-class dance training opportunities for young people aged between 11 – 19 years. The training is suitable for dancers with talent, passion and commitment to pursue dance.
Swindon Dance’s Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) delivers world-class dance training to young talents aged 11-19. Our programmes cater to dedicated dancers with a passion for their art.
Comprising the Exeter Contemporary, Swindon Ballet, Swindon Contemporary, Swindon Street Dance, Exeter Street Dance Programme and Bournemouth Contemporary (pilot) Programme, we are one of nine National CATs across the UK.
Talented young dancers join us from the Southwest to embark on this transformative journey. Supported by the Music and Dance Scheme under the Department for Education, grants make our training accessible, often free or at a subsidized fee. We’re also committed to alleviating additional financial burdens, covering travel, class reimbursements outside of those offered by CAT, performance tickets, and physiotherapy sessions when necessary.
Programmes
Bournemouth Contemporary (pilot) Programme
NEW FOR NOV 2024 | NEW FOR NOV 2024 | NEW FOR NOV 2024
Swindon Dance’s Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) is shaking things up with a brand new programme that launched in November 2024, all about Contemporary Dance! Whether you dream of a dance career or just want to dip your toes into the world of contemporary moves, the Bournemouth Contemporary (pilot) Programme is here to spot and support talented 11-19-year-olds. No matter your background, get ready for top-notch training that could pave the way to a successful career in contemporary dance.
This 10-week pilot programme started in November 2024 at Pavilion Dance South West and we are exploring the possibility of extending it to a full yearly programme which will run from September 2025 to July 2026. We are excited to be leading some Open Days & Experience days to gauge interest, which are planned for February and May.
Exeter Contemporary Programme
Nestled within DanSci Studio and Exeter University, the Exeter Contemporary programme operates bi-weekly from 11am to 5pm on Sundays during term time. Under the tutelage of industry-leading choreographers and artists, students delve into skills and techniques of:
- contemporary
- ballet
- jazz
- improvisation
- choreography
- performance
Exeter Street Dance Programme
NEW FOR SEPT 2024 | NEW FOR SEPT 2024 | NEW FOR SEPT 2024
Held at the vibrant DanSci Dance Studios, the Exeter Street Dance Programme run bi-weekly from 11am to 5pm on Sundays during term time. Under the tutelage of industry-leading choreographers and artists, students delve into skills and techniques of:
- hip hop
- popping
- breaking
- house
- commercial
- improvisation
- choreography
Swindon Ballet Programme
Nestled within Swindon Dance, the Swindon Ballet Programme runs weekly on Sunday afternoons from 11am to 5pm during term time. Under the tutelage of industry-leading choreographers and artists, students delve into skills and techniques of:
- ballet
- strength + conditioning
- music appreciation
- choreography
- performance
- pointe (if appropriate)
Swindon Contemporary Programme
Nestled within Swindon Dance, the Swindon Contemporary Programme operates on Saturdays from 12 noon to 5:30pm during term time. Under the tutelage of industry-leading choreographers and artists, students delve into skills and techniques of:
- contemporary
- ballet
- jazz
- improvisation
- choreography
- performance
Swindon Street Dance Programme
Nestled within Swindon Dance, the Swindon Street Dance Programme runs weekly on Sunday afternoons from 11am to 4:30pm during term time. Under the tutelage of industry-leading choreographers and artists, students delve into skills and techniques of:
- hip hop
- popping
- breaking
- house
- commercial
- improvisation
- choreography
Join the CAT
OPEN DAYS
Discover the essence of the Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) at our Open Day – a prime opportunity to gain insights. Engage with our CAT team, get your queries addressed, and witness our world-class instructors in action, guiding our talented students through a practical session.
If you’re new to the CAT programme, this Open Day is your gateway to comprehending the extensive offerings; including the grants available and the support we provide on your dance journey. The event is cost-free, and we warmly welcome parents and guardians to attend this enriching experience. Open Days usually take place from December to February each year. Register your interest here and a member of the CAT Team will be in touch soon.
EXPERIENCE DAYS
Step into the world of CAT and experience the excitement of our programme first-hand. Gain valuable insights into our specialized training before you take that important audition leap. Throughout the day, you’ll have the unique opportunity to meet our dedicated teaching team and participate in two enriching classes. Learn about the audition process, explore the fully funded places we offer, and understand the commitment expected from CAT participants.
We embrace dancers of all experience levels, with classes designed at a general level for this day, ensuring an inclusive and enlightening experience for all. Experience Days usually take place from February to April each year. Register your interest here and a member of the CAT Team will be in touch soon.
AUDITION
At CAT, we extend a warm welcome to individuals filled with energy, dedication, undiscovered potential, and above all, an unwavering passion for dance. If successful, you’ll join a community of like-minded dancers, honing your technique, nurturing your creative approach, and benefiting from the knowledge of industry leaders.
For those eager to audition, the process begins by applying online. A member of our CAT team will confirm your free place, paving the way for an exciting journey into the world of dance. Auditions will take place between March and July. Apply to audition here and a member of the CAT Team will be in touch soon.
Information Pack
Key Dates
Fees and Grants
A place with the CAT can either be fully or partially funded by the Music and Dance Scheme, Department for Education (DfE). Grants are awarded based on mean-testing which looks at household income. Families who do not qualify for a grant will be required to pay the full fee.
Grants are available to those whose household income sit within ‘relevant’ income brackets:
Up to £32,728 you will receive a Full DfE Grant
Between £32,728 – £72,003 and you will receive a Partial DfE Grant
*Relevant household income is taxable income, minus £2,264 per dependent.
The DfE Grant ensure that young people, regardless of access barriers can benefit from high-quality dance training, different opportunities within dance and work with professional dance companies. Grant holders can also claim funding support for travel and other permitted costs.
FAQs
Please read our FAQs regarding Swindon Dance Centre for Advanced Training. If we haven’t addressed your query please don’t hesitate to contact us cat@swindondance.org.uk
