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.
BOURNEMOUTH CONTEMPORARY (pilot) PROGRAMME
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. This longer length will offer the full provision of the CAT to dancers in Bournemouth and the surrounding areas. We are excited to be leading some Open Days & Experience days to gauge interest, which are planned for February and May.
WHY IS THE SWINDON DANCE CAT EXPANDING?
Swindon Dance wants to give young dancers in the South West a taste of different dance flavours. Known for rocking Contemporary and Street Dance styles for over 15 years, the CAT team is expanding to spread the love of contemporary to a wider audience in the South West. The goal is to nurture rising stars who can flow with the ever-evolving contemporary scene and shine in dance careers.
WHAT’S THE CAT MAGIC?
The CATs open doors to specialized dance training right in your local area, so you can still crash on your own couch at night. Breaking ground in dance prep and research, these programmes offer top-notch teaching and support, welcoming talent from all walks of life. The goal is to discover, nurture, and polish exceptional classical dance talent by offering geographic and financial support through the DfE grant scheme.
Swindon Dance’s CAT is part of the UK’s National Dance CAT crew, backed by the Department for Education’s Music and Dance Scheme. This means training is either free or a bargain for those who qualify. Check out the line-up: Swindon Contemporary, Exeter Contemporary, Exeter Street Dance (coming in September 2024), Swindon Street Dance, and now the Bournemouth Contemporary (pilot) Programme is joining the roll call!
PROGRAMME INFORMATION
FEES & GRANTS
A place on the CAT can be fully or partially covered by the Department for Education’s Music and Dance Scheme, based on household income. Dive into the grant info sheet for all the deets.
FAQS
Please read our FAQs regarding Bournemouth Contemporary Programme. If we haven’t addressed your query please don’t hesitate to contact us cat@swindondance.org.uk.
OPEN DAY & EXPERIENCE DAY
We are excited to be leading an Open Day & Experience Day to gauge interest for a full annual programme which would start in September 2025 and run until July 2026. If you would like to find out more, we strongly recommend attending our free Open Day or Experience Day as a vital introduction to our world of dance excellence.
