The Northern School of Contemporary Dance was established as a higher education corporation on 27 September 1994 under the Education Reform Act 1988.

The NSCD Instrument and Articles set out the School’s constitution, responsibilities and powers.

NSCD Instrument and Articles Strategic plan 2023-30

Legal & Charitable Status

The Corporation was established under the Education Reform Act 1988 for the purpose of conducting the operations of The Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD). The powers of a Higher Education Corporation (HEC) are defined in Section 124 of the 1988 Act as amended by the Further and Higher Education (FHE) Act 1992, and subject to any relevant regulations, orders or directions made by the Secretary of State of Privy Council. These powers included the power to provide higher and further education and to carry out research and to publish the results of such research.

The School is a Higher Education Provider and educational charity, with exempt status for the purposes of the Charities Act 1993 as amended by the Charities Act 2006 and 2011. It is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS) in its capacity as Principal Regulator. NSCD has charitable purposes and applies them for the public benefit. It must comply with the general law of charity. The Northern School of Contemporary Dance was a member of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama (CDD) from 2003 to July 2022 but became independent on 1 August 2022.

98 Chapeltown Road
Leeds, LS7 4BH

Governance Framework

In line with its Instrument and Articles the School has determined a Governance Structure and Rules and By-laws.

Governance Structure Standing Orders

Board of Governors

The Board of Governors is responsible for:

  • The determination of the educational character and mission of the School and for the oversight of its activities;
  • The effective and efficient use of resources, the solvency of the School and the Corporation and for safeguarding their assets;
  • Approving annual estimates of income and expenditure;
  • The appointment, grading, assignment, appraisal, suspension, dismissal and determination of the pay and conditions of the holders of senior posts; and
  • Setting a framework for the pay and conditions of service of all other staff.
Governor Profiles

Financial Statements

Financial Statements 2022-23