Business Details
41 Years
experience
Contemporary Dance Conservatoire in Leeds
Established in 1985, Northern School Of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) stands as the UK's sole conservatoire for dance training outside London. Our institution cultivates versatile dance artists through Undergraduate and Postgraduate programmes, combining technical mastery, creative exploration, and professional performance readiness. With a commitment to widening access, we identify and nurture talent regardless of background, supported by industry-standard facilities and a faculty of practicing artists.Our alumni network spans global dance leaders, including Akram Khan MBE and Tamsin Fitzgerald, reflecting our impact on contemporary dance's evolution. As part of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama, we maintain rigorous academic and artistic standards while prioritising student welfare and safeguarding. Through Riley Theatre, our dedicated performance venue, we bridge education and professional practice, offering students unique exposure to touring companies and emerging artists.
Services
Undergraduate Dance Training
Postgraduate Dance Programmes
Centre for Advanced Training
Youth Dance Classes
Adult Dance Workshops
Easter Intensive Courses
Summer School Programmes
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- UK's only dance conservatoire outside London
- Faculty includes practicing artists and industry leaders
- Industry-standard facilities and Riley Theatre access
- Alumni network featuring Akram Khan and 2Faced Dance founders
- Commitment to inclusive access and student welfare
Associations and certifications
- Conservatoire for Dance and Drama
Services
Undergraduate Dance Training
Our BA (Hons) Dance programmes develop technical excellence, creative innovation, and performance readiness. Students receive conservatoire-level training in choreography, producing, and teaching methodologies. The curriculum prepares graduates for professional careers in contemporary dance through industry connections and performance opportunities.
Postgraduate Dance Programmes
MA courses specialising in contemporary performance, interdisciplinary practice, and dance pedagogy. These programmes refine advanced skills through professional collaborations and research-led projects. Designed for graduates seeking to elevate their dance practice to industry-leading standards.
Centre for Advanced Training
Pre-vocational training for 13-18 year-olds with exceptional dance potential. Combines technical mastery, creative development, and performance experience. Recognised as a National Centre for Advanced Training, providing pathways to professional dance careers.
Youth Dance Classes
Structured dance education for children and teenagers, from introductory sessions to advanced training. Includes the COLLIDE project for male youth dancers and summer intensives. Develops technical skills, creativity, and performance confidence in a supportive environment.
Adult Dance Workshops
Inclusive dance classes for adults of all experience levels. Focuses on creative expression, physical fitness, and artistic development. Offers recreational and skill-building opportunities through weekly sessions and short-course intensives.
People
Nadine Senior MBE
Founder
Pioneering dance educator who established NSCD in 1985. Recognised for transforming dance education in the UK outside London. Her vision created pathways for thousands of dancers through accessible, conservatoire-level training.
Akram Khan MBE
Alumnus
Internationally acclaimed choreographer and NSCD graduate (1998). Founded Akram Khan Company, creating groundbreaking contemporary dance works performed globally. Regular collaborator with major international arts institutions.
Tamsin Fitzgerald
Alumnus
1998 graduate who founded 2Faced Dance Company. Known for innovative choreography and community engagement initiatives. Represents NSCD's success in nurturing entrepreneurial dance artists.
Questions
What dance qualifications does NSCD offer?
We provide Undergraduate CertHE, BA (Hons) Dance, and Postgraduate MA programmes specialising in contemporary dance performance, choreography, and pedagogy.
How do I apply for NSCD courses?
Applications are submitted through our website. Undergraduate applicants attend audition workshops, while postgraduate applications require portfolio submissions and interviews.
Are there facilities for professional development?
Our Riley Theatre hosts professional performances, and we offer summer intensives, residencies, and masterclasses with industry professionals.
Does NSCD support student welfare?
We prioritise student wellbeing with injury support services, accommodation assistance, and safeguarding policies for all participants.
What community programmes are available?
Our Learning & Participation team delivers youth dance projects, adult classes, and school partnerships across Yorkshire through NSCD+ initiatives.
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