Programme Overview

The CAT programme offers students a strong grounding in technical, creative and other important skills required for progression onto full-time vocational dance training. The core areas are:

• Technique: develop fundamental physical skills such as strength, flexibility, balance, alignment, control, phrasing and movement memory primarily in Contemporary and Ballet. Also have the opportunity to explore alternative styles of dance.
• Creative and Choreography: expand artistic voice through the creation of dance by exploring choreographic tasks and processes, improvisation, contact work and group choreography.
• Performance: develop qualities such as expressiveness, projection, focus and concentration by working with professional choreographers, dance artists and companies to create performances for the end of year shows and sharings in the Riley Theatre and other performance venues in Leeds.
• Dancers’ Health and Wellbeing: gain knowledge, build resilience and physical fitness through various practical and theoretical sessions.
• Cultural Activities: broaden understanding of the dance and wider arts sector through theatre trips, artist-led workshops and creative discussions.

Students are also supported in their progression beyond CAT, whether moving into full-time vocational dance training, higher education or alternative careers. This includes personalised one-to-one tutorials, mentoring and bespoke advice on auditions and applications.

Assessment and Feedback

CAT Tutors uses a range of methods to monitor students’ progress throughout the year, ensuring that they receive meaningful feedback to support their development:

• Observations of sessions
• Verbal discussions
• Written feedback
• Individual and small group tutorials

Students work towards bespoke training plans with targets that alignment with programme and module outcomes.

Entry Requirements

Entry to the CAT programme is by audition. You can book directly or be invited after attending a Taster or Outreach Workshop.

We also offer Audition Preparation Workshops in order for students to understand what to expect, build confidence and prepare practically for the audition process.

No formal qualifications or specific dance experience is required – we want to meet young people who show potential, passion and enthusiasm for dance.