Northern School of Contemporary Dance - Student View

Based in a beautiful, green, domed synagogue, converted to a working theatre in which blood, sweat, tears and laughter are shed daily. College takes pride in accommodating a diverse range of characters regardless of background.

You have to be committed to survive the intensity of the course. There are 2-4 classes a day, depending on year of study, including ballet technique, contemporary technique, body awareness, choreography, music, history of ideas, movement studies, history of dance, combined arts and dance as education.

Everyone is in the same boat, so there is a very close-knit feel to the college. Staff form close working relationships with their students. College is affiliated to Leeds University, allowing access to uni libraries, SU etc. Technical progress is continually assessed while written assignments are variable, set in accordance with individual course structures. At the end of each term, students work through a choreographic process with professional choreographers, culminating in a showcase at the Riley Theatre.

Course is vocational, with greater emphasis on the practical as opposed to the academic element. However, it is extremely demanding, both mentally and physically. Previous dance training is not required but at the audition they are looking for people with spirit and the will to dance.

Leeds has a massive student population, so there are numerous bars, clubs, restaurants, theatres and cinemas, catering for all tastes. No student accommodation, but college runs house-hunting days before the course starts to help new students find private accommodation.