Level 5 Diploma in Professional Dance – Contemporary Focus (Two year course)

This diploma is devised for talented students of 16 years and over who want to be successful in Dance and is a level five qualification validated by Trinity College, London.
The aim of the course is to develop our students into well rounded, athletic and highly skilled dancers who are desirable in the industry, whether that be for a Contemporary Company, a Cruise Liner, for Commercial work in music & TV, for a  UK or International Tour, or on The West End stage. We instil a versatile and dedicated work ethic into our students, so they are able to achieve in the extremely demanding dance industry.

We make sure students get the attention they deserve by making sure none of our class sizes exceed 16 students. This works in tandem with our intensive, exciting and extensive teaching of different dance genres. Contemporary is the key skill for this diploma, however, throughout the course students will study many supporting genres of dance: Classical ballet, Jazz, Commercial and Tap. In addition to these subjects Acro, Lyrical and Jazz Partnering/Adagio work will also be studied. The course is designed to prepare students for both the technical and performing demands of the industry. Students will learn the skills required to audition successfully for a career in dance by gaining strong technique and exploring the artistry within dance. With their continued commitment, discipline, energy and focus they will graduate with all the skills needed to gain longevity in their careers.

Students will have weekly performance workshops, audition preparation and career development sessions. Keeping fit is an important aspect of performing at the highest level, we ensure students have an excellent level of health and fitness through diagnostics, body conditioning, Pilates and nutrition sessions. Expert teaching staff, guest lecturers and visiting directors ensure students continuously strive to meet their personal challenges. To help maintain students’ high standards, individual progress is closely monitored. Regular tutorials and assessments ensure they receive continual feedback and support.

Year 1

Students focus on a broad-based core curriculum concentrating on achieving strong technical skills in the different genres of dance. Contemporary, Ballet and Jazz are the core assessed subjects. Contextual studies in anatomy, health & safety, history of dance and theatre studies provide related academic content. In-house student productions allow for the development of artistic confidence and peer co-operation. All students take part in the annual college show at the end of the academic year, in a Professional Theatre.

Year 2

The second year of the course aims to build on the core subjects with the emphasis on further strengthening and broadening of technique and on developing performance skills. Performance opportunities and creative projects are encouraged to develop peer co-operation, performance, presentation and artistry. Students now focus on developing skills and knowledge and are encouraged to work with an analytical and artistic approach to the practical and theoretical work in preparation for graduating. The main emphasis in this year is to consolidate the students’ training for their intended profession. Professional Employment Skills are key, and individual career aims are addressed. The ‘Showcase’ both in the Northwest and London is where invited agents attend. All students take part in the annual college show in a Professional Theatre, which culminates in the celebration of graduation day.

Please CLICK HERE to complete an audition application form.