Advanced Training Programme (ATP)

ATP Classes Update   Tuesday 23 April 2013

Please don't forget that the regular timetable will reduce down to optional classes between Monday 13 May - Sunday 9 June.  There will be no classes in Darlington during this time and ATP students have received a letter giving more details about the classes which are available in Newcastle.

Please bookmark this webpage for future reference.  We will continue to use this webpage to inform parents and students of any cancellations or changes to ATP classes.  During periods of bad weather, updates on this webpage will be made before 3pm each day.

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Current ATP students can Register here (remember to select "CAT Student" when filling in the form).

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What is the ATP?

The Advanced Training Programme (ATP) is a contemporary dance training programme available to young people living in the North East region who are 10 – 16 years of age.  Although students should be under 16 years of age when they join, once registered, they can continue training until they are 18 years of age.  Entry to the ATP is by audition only, and we are looking for young people who demonstrate exceptional talent or potential in contemporary dance. 

The ATP is delivered by the Dance City Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) as part of a national network of Dance CATs delivering non-residential, pre-vocational, professional dance training.  The Dance City CAT is supported by the government's Department for Education as part of their national Music and Dance Scheme.  Means-tested grants are available to ATP students to cover the cost of their tuition fees.

More information about the National Dance CATs can be found here: www.nationaldancecats.co.uk

What does being a student on the ATP involve?

All of the opportunities listed below are included as part of your tuition on the Advanced Training Programme:

• Three classes per week (a minimum of seven hours training per week) during school term time.
  
• A minimum of two regular mid-week classes, which students can choose to attend in Darlington or Newcastle.
• All ATP students are expected to attend a weekend class at Dance City in Newcastle.
• Mid-week classes cover contemporary technique and classical ballet.
• Weekend classes cover creative movement and body conditioning.
• Termly performances in the Dance City Theatre.
• Two intensive, week-long, dance workshops each academic year (during Easter, Summer or February half-term holidays) with a guest teacher or choreographer.
• The chance to work with leading dance companies and artists.
• Organised theatre trips to see leading dance companies and artists.
• Regular support with the prevention and management of injuries.
• Termly progress reports from teachers.
• Individual mentor support and mid-year tutorials.
• Advice and guidance during the application process for vocational training.

How much does the ATP cost?

The ATP is supported by the government’s Department for Education (DfE) as part of their national Music and Dance Scheme. This means that ATP students who have a household income of less than £29,340 per annum receive their training free of charge. Tuition fees for ATP students with a household annual income in excess of £29,340 are charged on a rising scale related to income.

In the academic year 2012 - 2013: 84% of our students received some financial assistance from the DfE and 56% of our students received the full grant, meaning they did not have to make any contribution towards tuition fees.

Before assessing your family income £1,936 will be deducted from the final total for each child living in the household as a dependant (including the child who is enrolling on the programme).

An example is given in the table below of the fees to be paid for 2012 - 2013 depending on the annual household income:

Please Note: The DfE may make slight adjustments to the fees payable and grants available from academic year to year.  The information given on this web site is accurate at the time of publication and any adjustments for the following academic year will be minimal.

How can I apply for an audition?

The open audition, for entry to the programme in September 2013, is taking place on Saturday 18 May 2013.  The auditions on Sunday 19 May are now fully booked.

For further information and to apply for an audition please download the ATP Audition Application Form.  You will need to return your completed form before Friday 10 May 2013 to book a place on your preferred audition date and time.  

Current FTP students may attend the private audition date of Sunday 26 May 2013.  Please see the
ATP Audition Application Form for further information.

What should I wear at an ATP Audition?

When taking part in the ATP auditions, applicants should wear the following:

Females: Leotard, tights, ballet shoes or bare feet.
Males: Shorts, tight t-shirts or leotards, ballet shoes or bare feet.

If you do not have any dancewear, then leggings / shorts and a t-shirt / sports vest will be suitable for males and females. Loose clothing is not appropriate as the audition panel need to be able to observe body alignment. 

ATP Taster Days

We are holding two ATP Taster Days this year on Tuesday 19 February and Wednesday 3 April 2013. 

Attending a Taster Day will help you to find out more about what it is like to be a student on the ATP.  This will enable you to decide whether or not you are ready for the commitment of being an ATP student and if you would like to audition.

Places are limited so, if you wish to attend please email carolyn.smail@dancecity.co.uk or telephone 0191 269 5578 to reserve a place.

Queries To:

Email:  carolyn.smail@dancecity.co.uk
Telephone:  0191 269 5578