Student Life
Central offers rigorous degree level training in a range of skills that are both relevant to, and coveted by, the modern dance industry. We provide this in an environment which is positive, nurturing, supportive and encouraging. But life at Central is more than just specialist training and study modules. When you join Central, you also join a family of students and staff, as well as a wider network of graduates working and performing in the UK and international dance industries.
Kirit, Second Year
Phoebe, Third Year
Shiori, 2024 Graduate
Harvey, 2024 Graduate
Kirit, Second Year
Central offers excellent training which is necessary in order to enter the industry when the standards are so high. I have loved my time so far at Central. I’ve been able to meet a lot of new people and make new friends. The classes offered have been fun and I feel like I have improved as a dancer.
Since joining Central I have become a lot stronger thanks to the work of Chris who is the first year male tutor and part of the Strength and Conditioning team. I feel far more stable and in control which is something an audience would want to see in the future. I’ve also become a braver dancer. Central has allowed me to push the boundaries of how I dance through modules such as contemporary, choreography and improvisation, when previously I had almost exclusively done ballet.
Image by Kate Frost Photography
Phoebe, Third Year
I chose to come to Central because I felt that the course they offered would enable me to become a varied, versatile dancer whilst also gaining an academic degree. London offers many opportunities to watch ballet and touring companies. We are also lucky that the school has direct links in the dance industry and we regularly have professionals in to watch or teach us.
Shiori, 2024 Graduate
The biggest reason why I chose Central is that it has a lot of precious opportunities and experiences to learn a wide range of dance from many different perspectives and perform in London, where I can experience art. There are various classes, such as ballet, contemporary, Spanish, Jazz, choreography and dance studies.
In school showcases and Ballet Central, we have chances to not only perform many styles of works but also work with amazing choreographers to create new pieces. Without these experiences, we cannot understand what is required of us to work in a company, and they will help me demonstrate the skills I need when I become a professional dancer.
In addition, it was an honour to have the wonderful opportunity to perform in English National Ballet’s Nutcracker and Giselle. I am grateful to the school and teachers for this opportunity and for making the connection with the ballet company. I learned a lot of important things and necessary skills to join a professional company.
Image by ASH Photography
Harvey, 2024 Graduate
Since starting 3rd year, I have been exposed to professional company environments such as the placement I did with Scottish Ballet for their production of Cinders. With the connections established between Central and Scottish, I perhaps wouldn’t have been given the amazing opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside the company, touring to 5 different cities and completing 61 shows. I gained valuable insight into how life in ballet companies works and learned many lessons that I will be taking with me for when I enter the industry myself. Since coming back to Central, I have already been able to apply what I learned at Scottish as I am required to pick up lots of choreography in a short space of time to be ready for the Ballet Central tour starting in May.
Image by ASH Photography
“My favourite thing about being at Central is being able to come in everyday and getting to dance to lovely music, surrounded by great teachers and my friends. “
“I think that Central is helping me to become the best dancer that I can be. The staff encourage me, push me and expect me to perform like a professional and are helping me become a resilient, considerate and smart dancer that company directors will enjoy having in their company.”
“I am grateful to the school and teachers for the opportunity to perform in English National Ballet’s Nutcracker and Giselle.”
“In many ways, 3rd year closely resembles what life in a dance company is like, preparing as well as equipping me with the confidence and skills I need for what is to come in the future. “
Tutors
Find out more about Central’s degree courses tutors who will be shaping your training and allowing your to reach your full potential and ensure optimum performance. Our tutors support you in becoming versatile and highly accomplished dancers, so that when you graduate you are fully prepared to create a successful and positive career in performance. Central graduates go on to have incredibly rich careers, working both in the UK and internationally, and the advice and expertise that they absorb from their tutors plays a fundamental role in this journey.
Accommodation
Discover accommodation options around Central. We’ve put together a selection of the most popular accommodation sites in the local area.
Living in London
From travel tips to discounts in London, find out how to make the most of our South Bank location in Southwark.
Health and Wellbeing
Explore how Central supports your physical and psychological wellbeing to enhance your training and ensure optimum performance for future career success.
Inclusivity and Student Support
Learn more about the support that will be on offer to you and how Central seeks to foster an inclusive environment that enhances your training.
Higher Education Policies and Procedures
Find all of our policies and procedures relevant to Central’s Higher Education courses.