EXETER CONTEMPORARY PROGRAMME
BENEFIT FROM WORLD-CLASS DANCE TRAINING
Nestled within DanSci Studio and Exeter University, the Exeter Contemporary Programme (ECP) operates bi-weekly from 11am to 5pm on Sundays during term time. Under the tutelage of industry-leading choreographers and artists, students delve into skills and techniques of:
contemporary
ballet
jazz
improvisation
choreography
performance
Talented young dancers join us from the South West to embark on this transformative journey. Supported by the Music and Dance Scheme under the Department for Education, grants make our training accessible, often free or at a subsidized fee. We're also committed to alleviating additional financial burdens, covering travel, class reimbursements outside of those offered by CAT, performance tickets, and physiotherapy sessions when necessary.
For prospective dancers, we strongly recommend attending our free Open Day or Experience Day as a vital introduction to our world of dance excellence.
AIMS
Develop tomorrow’s outstanding professional and unique artists
Seek out, nurture and develop exceptional talent for dance
Provide access, supporting participants both geographically and financially through the DfE grant scheme
OUTCOMES
The development of autonomous learners
The development of artistically and physically dynamic dancers
WHAT TO EXPECT
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1 Open Day
Discover the essence of the Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) at our Open Day – a prime opportunity to gain insights. Engage with our CAT team, get your queries addressed, and witness our world-class instructors in action, guiding our talented students through a practical session.
If you're new to the CAT programme, this Open Day is your gateway to comprehending the extensive offerings; including the grants available and the support we provide on your dance journey. The event is cost-free, and we warmly welcome parents and guardians to attend this enriching experience.
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2 Experience Day
Step into the world of CAT and experience the excitement of our programme first-hand. Gain valuable insights into our specialised training before you take that important audition leap.
Throughout the day, you'll have the unique opportunity to meet our dedicated teaching team and participate in two enriching classes. Learn about the audition process, explore the fully funded places we offer, and understand the commitment expected from CAT participants.
We embrace dancers of all experience levels, with classes designed at a general level for this day, ensuring an inclusive and enlightening experience for all.
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3 Audition
At CAT, we extend a warm welcome to individuals filled with energy, dedication, undiscovered potential, and above all, an unwavering passion for dance. If successful, you'll join a community of like-minded dancers, honing your technique, nurturing your creative approach, and benefiting from the knowledge of industry leaders.
For those eager to audition, the process begins by registering your interest online. A member of our CAT team will confirm your free place, paving the way for an exciting journey into the world of dance.
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4 Levels
The CAT Programme runs with 2 levels taking place simultaneously. The levels are set by the CAT team at the beginning of the year based on ability, strength, maturity and technique. If the CAT team feels any student is in the wrong level at any point throughout the year then this can be amended in discussion with the student and the parent/carer.
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5 Graduation
Past students have progressed into full-time training at Europe's top vocational schools and conservatoires and are now working professionally in the dance industry.
Meet your team
Katie Purcell
HEAD OF CENTRE FOR ADVANCED TRAINING
Over the time I have been luckily enough to be the Programme Manager of the Swindon Dance CAT, I have seen first hand the impact the Programmes have on our students. In many cases how amazing the opportunities have been for them working with renowned artists and teachers and how it has opened so many doors for some of them to go onto to further their training and thus lead such successful careers. Without the CAT Programme and the stepping stones it provides young people that might not necessarily have been able to access such high quality teachers without the CAT, it is a constant reminder to me, why the CAT is so unique and special to many students, past and present, which makes me incredibly excited for the prospective students.
Meet your team
Catherine Lee
COORDINATOR
Catherine has worked within the dance industry for 25 years
Meet your team
Maryam Pourian
CORE TUTOR
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Meet your team
Ben Dunks
CORE TUTOR
Ben is the Artistic Director of Attik Dance in Plymouth.
He trained in Performing Arts (majoring in Dance), at the Queensland University of Technology and then at the Australian Ballet School in Melbourne. He subsequently performed with a multitude of companies in Australia, Ireland and the UK, working with more than 25 directors and choreographers.
Meet your team
Emma Holbrook
MUSICIAN
Emma became interested in drums at the age of 9 after seeing a drum corps at a street carnival. It wasn’t long before she was playing snare drum in a military band, being involved in parades and competitions all over the country. During her school years she began to develop interests in other styles of music and taught herself how to play the drum kit and piano. Emma studied Film at sixth form college and university where she started to become more focused on evolving her skills in editing and post production whilst still maintaining a passion for music.
After leaving the University Of Reading in 2004 she started to establish herself as a creative and technical freelancer and began to work on projects within music, theatre and film production. She has worked extensively on music videos, short films, fringe theatre and promotional videos but more recently she has begun to specialise in offline and assistant editing for feature length drama and documentary. In July 2012 she was accepted into the BBC Wales assistant editors talent pool and is now pursuing a full time career as an editor and composer in the south west.
She started working for the CAT in 2009 and specialises in playing the Peruvian Cajon drum accompanying teachers in contemporary dance classes. Emma has also composed music at YDA residencies using sequencers and virtual instruments. Examples of her music and film work can be found at www.laconicfilm.co.uk
Meet your team
Sally Geater
PHYSIOTHERAPIST
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FAQs
What is the CAT?
Swindon Dance's Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) delivers world-class dance training to young talents aged 11-19. Our programmes cater to dedicated dancers with a passion for their art. We are one of nine National CATs across the UK read more.
How many CAT programmes are there?
Swindon Dance CAT comprises of six programmes: Exeter Contemporary, Exeter Street Dance, Swindon Ballet, Swindon Contemporary, Swindon Street Dance and Bournemouth Contemporary (pilot)
What does the CAT scheme involve?
Individual training plans (ITP);
Physio support (by a dance specialist);
Grants towards fees;
Financial support towards travel;
Financial support towards dancewear;
Paid support for external classes;
Specialist intensives during half-term;
Dance training;
Auditioning mentor/support when in year 13 and applying for conservatoires/full time dance training;
Opportunity to access additional supporting classes during the week.
Do I need to live in Exeter to attend?
No, the CAT scheme is open to students across the South West of the UK. Students from Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Dorset travel to train with the CAT.
Does it matter if I haven’t had a lot of contemporary experience?
No formal contemporary experience is required; we are looking for enthusiastic and motivated young people with exceptional potential and an interest in dance.
How do I register on an Open Day or Experience Day?
The Open Days and Experience Days are a chance for young dancers and their parents/guardians to find out more and see how the programme runs. You will meet the team, hear about the training, and take part in a taster class. Please fill out the register your interest form below and a member of the CAT team will be in touch. You will receive confirmation of your place and any further information about the day itself via email. If you have any difficulties completing a form online please get in touch cat@swindondance.org.uk
Do I have to audition?
Yes. Entry is by audition only after which, if you are successful you will be invited to join the CAT. The CAT team will provide full information regarding the audition a few weeks prior to your audition date. If you are nervous about auditioning please get in touch with the team who will be able to support you through the process.
How can I join the CAT?
Entry onto the CAT is by audition only. In previous years the audition has included a technique class, a solo and an informal interview. If you would like to apply please complete an application form. The audition is your opportunity to demonstrate your potential by taking part in a practical dance session and creative workshop in front of a selection panel. Our next auditions will be held between March and July 2025. The CAT audition is FREE to attend but an application form must be completed and submitted in order to reserve a place.
What are the fees?
The CAT is supported by the Department for Education (DfE) via means tested grants. For those who qualify - training is FREE or subsidised, read more.
How will I fit this in with my schoolwork?
All CAT classes happen out of school hours. The progamme leaders and/or mentors can help you plan your time using your Individual Training Plan (ITP) so that you fit in both your schoolwork and your dance lessons.
What are the term dates?
Term dates for 2023-24 can be found below, these have been provided as a guide and are subject to change year on year.
FAQs
What do the fees cover?
All STEPS2 training sessions; performance trip ticket & a Swindon Dance T-shirt is included in your fee.
What is the cost per year?
The annual fee for 2024/25 is £285 / £225*. There maybe a slight increase per year. *concessionary rate
What are the payment options?
Fees can be paid in full at the beginning of the Steps2 year or in 3 equal instalments:
By 13th Sept 2024
By 10th Jan 2025
By 25th Apr 2025
Are there any additional costs?
Cost of travel to performances or events may need to be covered by the STEPS2 member. We may ask for a contribution to travel and shall endeavour to keep the costs as low as possible. Fundraising may be arranged whenever this occurs.
We will attempt to provide costumes needed for performances, however we may ask that you source items from home or contribute towards costume purchases.
When do assessments take place?
There will be 2 reports during the year
Jan - Mar focuses on:
Physical Skills/ Strength/ Technique/ Behaviour Skills/ Attendance
Apr - Jul focuses on:
Creativity/ Choreography/ Musicality/ Performance Skills/ Behaviour Skills/ Attendance
Addtionally, parents/ carers are also invited to a sharing display by the STEPS2 team at the end of December (Autumn/Winter term), and one in either March (Winter/Spring term) or July (Summer term), demonstrating their class work. STEPS2 level 2 parents, will also to be invited to the CAT (Centre for Advanced Training) open days throughout the year, ahead of the CAT auditions.
What opportunities are there for performances and trips?
Both levels work towards a performance either at the end of the year during the Summer Term or during Winter/Spring term. Both levels will have the chance to attend a trip to see a performance either locally or regionally. The cost of the performance trip is included in fees. This will be a compulsory performance trip, which we advise students to attend to broaden their knowledge and experience of live dance.
Is there a Graduation?
At the end of the year (Summer term) those students that are moving on to the next steps in their training will graduate from the STEPS2 Programme during an open/sharing class in front of their family and friends.
Please note: In the event that a student choses to leave half way through the year or before then they do not complete/graduate from the programme.
Required attendance?
Once you have successfully gained a place on the STEPS2 Programme then it is yours until you graduate/ leave. There is no need to re-audition.
STEPS2 requires 100% commitment from the student. It is essential that you contact the STEPS2 coordinator either by phone or email at your earliest opportunity to report an absence if your child is unable to attend a session/s or project. Attendance will be assessed each term by the STEPS2 management team, and we will be in contact with you if we would like to discuss your child's attendance. We also ask that students arrive 5 minutes before class so that the teachers can start promptly at 4.30pm.
What should I wear?
Black leotard or tight-fitting vest and tights/leggings OR tight-fitting vest/t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms/shorts. A Swindon Dance t-shirt is included in the fees. Please ensure all hair is tied back, no jewellery and no socks are worn.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
For further information contact the Centre for Advanced Training team
on cat@swindondance.org.uk / 01793 601700
Testimonials
