How old do you have to be in order to apply?
Between 10 -17 years. You can apply at 9 but must be 10 by September 1st of that year.
How many students are there on the programme?
We currently have 60 students. This number is anticipated to grow to 90 by 2010 – but more studios and teachers will be available to keep individual class numbers small.
How much does it cost?
Please refer to the finance section.
Do I need previous dance experience?
No, but you must demonstrate potential i.e. musicality or physicality.
I like dancing but not sure if I want a career in dance, should I apply?
That’s OK. This course is designed to help you figure out if you want to be a professional dancer or not. You can come for a taster session, apply to audition or talk to the Programme Manager Lucy Field on 020 7121 1035 or e-mail
When are the auditions and how do I apply?
Auditions for 2009-10 will be held in March/April 2009. We will also be holding taster days in February and March 2009. For more information contact the CAT Administrator Alison Gee 020 7121 1037 or e-mail . Audition applications will be available to download in January 2009.
What will I be expected to do at the audition?
Applicants are split into groups according to their age and experience. You will participate in a contemporary, ballet and creative class. Don’t worry if you have never done one or all of these disciplines – it is rare that an applicant has experience in all of these dance forms. This should NOT deter you from auditioning. The audition will last approximately 2 hours.
When does the programme happen?
Following and extensive review period from September 2008 CAT will be delivered every Saturday (10 per term) and one evening during the week (Tuesdays/Wednesdays) at The Place. Intensive courses will be held at October and February half-terms, Easter and during summer holidays.
What does the programme include?
Read about the Course Content
How long is the course?
The course can last until you are 18 years old. It will be dependant on your commitment, development and desire to continue your dance training at this intense level.
Will I have to audition every year?
No. Once you are on the course we are committed to helping you reach your dance potential through a rigorous and intensive training programme. You will be assessed throughout your time on the programme to help you develop your skill and ability.
Are students ever exited from the programme?
Yes. However this happens very rarely and only if the student is not demonstrating their commitment. Students will only be exited it they break the Behaviour Guidelines, have poor attendance or are not developing at the desired rate. In this last instance the CAT management team will discuss the individuals training programme and work with the student and family to address their progress before deciding to exit the child from the scheme.
Are there many performance opportunities?
There are some performance possibilities – but the CAT is primarily a training programme. Students may be advised to join a Youth Dance Company or like project to gain additional performance experience.
Does it matter where I live?
No. There are CAT schemes all over the country. At The Place home of London Contemporary Dance School we generally enrol students from London and the South East; however we do have students from the West Midlands, Dorset, Kent, Norfolk and Norwich.
Does the CAT provide accommodation for students?
We do not have any accommodation on site as we are a non-residential programme. We do however help find accommodation for students and families in our locality during intensive courses and at weekends. Each case is assessed individually.