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Central School of Ballet is a world-leading centre for professional dance training based in the South Bank arts community in London’s Southwark, led by Executive Director Mark Osterfield and Artistic Director Kate Coyne. Central offers both undergraduate and postgraduate courses validated by the University of Kent for students aiming for a professional dance career or to further their career after a period of working as a professional dancer. The BA (Hons) Degree in Professional Dance and Performance is a three-year process that consists of an initial two-year Foundation Degree and a final year BA (Hons) (Top Up) year. The MA Choreography course is aimed at professional choreographers providing the opportunity to develop choreographic profile and professional skills while continuing to work as either a freelance dancer or a dance company member.

Foundation Degree Professional Dance and Performance

New students commence with the two-year Foundation Degree and, on successful completion, can progress to the one-year BA (Hons) (Top Up) course to achieve the BA (Hons) Degree in Professional Dance and Performance. Both courses are predominantly vocational with a high number of contact hours.

Stage One provides students with a practical understanding of the fundamentals of Ballet and Contemporary Dance (Graham-based) technique, with supplementary studies in Spanish technique and Choreography work. Stage Two provides a practical understanding of the technical skills and artistry required by the profession in Ballet, Contemporary Dance (Cunningham-based) and supplementary studies in Jazz and Choreography. The teaching aims for students to use this knowledge in a rehearsal and professional performance situation including solo and group pieces, and work for public performance.

A course in contextual studies underpins the practical dance training. These skills are essential in sustaining a career as a professional dancer. Through regular self-evaluation and goal-setting, students develop into successful reflective practitioners. The work of key practitioners in Ballet and Contemporary dance (from the 19th century to the present day) is woven throughout the course in both practical and theoretical modules and is used to inform stylistic and interpretative differences.

Progressing to the third year provides the opportunity to work towards the BA (Hons) Degree in Professional Dance and Performance, validated by the University of Kent. This internationally recognised qualification establishes graduates as having outstanding achievement validated by a globally respected university and carries a value above and beyond a dancer’s performing career.