11 + Dance Scholarships
Process | Expectations | Dates
Assessment Process
Candidates for Dance Scholarships must be training at an appropriate entry level in Ballet and/or Contemporary Dance at the time of application (RAD / ISTD / IDTA (or equivalent) Ballet Grade 3+ and/or NATD / ISTD / IDTA (or equivalent) Contemporary Grade 3+).
All 11+ Dance Scholarship applicants are asked to prepare a short solo dance performance (approximately three minutes) in any style of their choice. They will perform this piece on the assessment day, giving our Head of Dance the opportunity to observe their technical ability, creativity and expressive confidence.
Candidates will also take part in a short interview with the Head of Dance, during which they will discuss their chosen piece, their performance and their previous dance experience. In addition, applicants will be asked to participate in a creative task designed to explore their responsiveness, imagination and ability to work with new movement ideas.
Where possible, Dance Scholarship applicants are also encouraged to invite the Head of Dance to watch them perform in a dance showcase prior to the Scholarship assessment. This is entirely optional, and not being able to do so will not disadvantage a candidate in any way.
Expectations of Dance Scholars
Dance Scholars are expected to make an active and high-quality contribution to the Dance shows/productions, as a performer. As they develop through the college, Dance Scholars will be encouraged to take opportunities to assist in choreographing and taking some leadership of rehearsals. Dance Scholars are expected to attend dance at least THREE TIMES A WEEK as part of their games and Enrichment Programme options unless they can prove to be undertaking dance provision outside of the college for a minimum of 4 hours per week.
RAD Ballet and NATD Contemporary lessons are optional and the cost of these are not included as part of the Dance Scholarship, however, are eligible to a discount.
Every scholarship holder is expected to set an example for the other students in their conduct and approach to academic study, to participate in the fuller life of the Senior School through its programme of extracurricular activities, and promote the school as requested at all Open Mornings.
The Head of Dance will meet with Dance Scholars regularly to support their development and ensure that the above expectations are being met.