Legat brochure by bedesschoolsussex

Bede's Legat Dance Academy

Our Vision

Where every child finds joy in their pursuit of brilliance

Our Mission

We continue to craft a more joyful education.

Cultivating a vibrant learning experience, motivating us to pursue our individual best.

Providing a festival of opportunity, enabling us to discover new passions and develop new talents.

Building a kind-hearted community, inspiring us to enhance the lives of others.

Our Values

Be Compassionate

Because a caring community fosters belonging.

We expect our community to show kindness to people of all ages, genders and ethnicities, maintaining campuses where every person feels joyful and energised.

Be Courageous

Because fortune favours the brave.

We challenge our community to stand up for what is right, providing them with a safe environment where they can take bold action in pursuit of brilliance.

Be Curious

Because wisdom can be found off the beaten track.

We encourage our community to discover unlikely passions and hidden niches, releasing them into a wealth of opportunities inside and outside the classroom.

Be Conscientious

Because dedication is a spearhead of success.

We ask our community to throw themselves wholeheartedly into every endeavour, taking responsibility for their journey and inspiring others to do the same.

Welcome

At the Legat Dance Academy, we believe in nurturing not only talent but also passion and dedication. Our programme is meticulously designed for students who are committed to their craft. We offer a unique and versatile dance programme that is seamlessly integrated into the school day, allowing students to achieve a perfect balance between their academic studies and dance training.

We are immensely proud of our graduates, many of whom go on to secure places at some of the world's most prestigious dance colleges, including the Urdang Academy, Laine Theatre Arts, Italia Conti, Institute of the Arts Barcelona, Rambert, Royal Ballet School, Trinity Laban and the Central School of Ballet.

However, our mission extends beyond the performing arts. The discipline and commitment our dancers cultivate help them become confident, creative, and courageous individuals, ready to excel in any path they choose - whether that is a career in the arts, a top university, or an industry placement.

Our programme is taught by seasoned industry professionals and

performers. This first-hand knowledge provides our students with invaluable insight into the world of professional dance, preparing them for the realities and opportunities of the industry.

When you join Legat, you become part of a supportive family for life. Our commitment to our dancers doesn't end when they graduate; we continue to support them as they embark on their next chapter. As our ethos states, "Once a Legat dancer, you are always part of the Legat family."

As a 2022 graduate who has just completed their training at Urdang Academy, Freya Woods shared, "Legat has allowed me to make valuable friendships, learn how to survive in the industry and strengthen my technique and performing skills, something I will be forever thankful for."

Sherrie Pennington Head of Legat Dance Academy

Legat Dance Academy

The Legat Dance Academy offers a comprehensive and intensive training programme for aspiring dancers, designed to align rigorous dance training with a high-quality academic education. The curriculum is structured to produce versatile and highly-skilled performers ready for the professional world.

A Diverse and Intensive Curriculum

Students at the Legat Dance Academy meet every afternoon after a morning of academic study. This unique schedule allows for dedicated, focused dance training without compromising their academic pursuits. The classes offered cover a wide range of genres, ensuring that dancers are prepared for the multifaceted demands of the dance industry. The core classes include:

• Ballet: We offer the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, providing a strong foundation in classical ballet technique, emphasising posture, grace, and precision. Our students have the opportunity to enter exams from Intermediate through to Advanced 2. In addition to the RAD syllabus, dancers also take general ballet classes to further refine their technique and artistry which includes learning repertoire and pointe work.

• Contemporary: On top of the students having the ability to study and take exams in the Rambert Grades syllabus they also take free classes exploring Martha Graham to Hofesh Shechter. These enable our dancers to build strength, hone technique and develop an awareness of contemporary practitioners.

• Jazz and Commercial: These classes focus on building strength, improving flexibility, and learning dynamic routines. We train students in an audition-style setting to prepare them for the demands of today's fast-paced industry, ensuring their skills are always relevant and current.

• Tap: We encourage all our dancers to take tap classes to improve musicality and coordination.

We incorporate Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT) and strength and conditioning into our classes to help dancers build the muscle memory and alignment crucial for improving ballet technique and preventing injury. This integrated approach not only enhances their performance but also supports their overall physical fitness, building the stamina and resilience required for a demanding dance career. To further support their physical development, students also have access to our on-campus gym and swimming pool, providing additional opportunities for strength training, conditioning, and recovery.

On average, a dancer trains for 15 hours a week, however this differs for each year group with First Year students having extra classes exclusively within their cohort and 1:1 sessions available for our Sixth Form dancers helping them prepare for exams or auditions. If a student chooses to take BTEC Performing Arts as an academic subject, this can also increase their training hours, as the programme often involves practical, performance-led elements.

We also offer the RAD Assistant Teacher Award (AsTA) to our students as an opportunity to develop their teaching skills and deepen their understanding of dance from a new perspective. This programme not only provides them with practical, hands-on experience but also allows them to play a vital role in our Associate Programme. By assisting our teachers, they gain confidence, leadership skills, and a deeper appreciation for the dedication required in dance education. This mentorship not only benefits their own growth but also strengthens our entire dance community, ensuring the younger students in our Associate Programme receive excellent support and inspiration from role models who have walked the same path.

BTEC Performing Arts

The BTEC Performing Arts programme at Bede's is offered at two distinct levels, each providing a different depth of study and academic equivalency.

BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts

The BTEC Level 2 qualification is equivalent to one GCSE. It provides a strong foundation for students who are passionate about the performing arts and want to develop practical skills. This level introduces students to fundamental concepts and techniques in dance and performance through hands-on projects and assignments. It's an excellent stepping stone whether you are just beginning to explore your potential in the performing arts or are more experienced and want to gain a recognised qualification without the pressure of a traditional exam-based curriculum.

BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts

Building upon the foundations of Level 2, the BTEC Level 3 qualification is a more advanced and intensive course, equivalent to 1.5 A Levels. This programme is designed for students who are considering a future in the performing arts. The Level 3 course goes into greater depth, requiring students to develop higher-level skills in performance, choreography, and professional practice. They undertake more complex projects, including a collaborative performance, that mirror the demands of a professional setting. The rigour of this course, combined with our students' commitment, is what leads to the exceptional 100% pass rate at Distinction to Distinction* (equivalent A*-A at A Level). This qualification is highly regarded by universities and vocational colleges, providing a strong academic and practical portfolio for those applying to prestigious dance conservatoires and universities worldwide.

Workshops

We place great importance on providing our students with unique learning opportunities through workshops led by visiting industry professionals. These masterclasses, taught by guest artists from top West End shows, prestigious contemporary and ballet companies, offer our dancers first-hand insight into the professional world. Our students not only refine their technique and learn new choreography, but they also gain invaluable knowledge about the realities of a career in dance.

Beyond performance, we also host workshops on crucial topics like nutrition, mental health, and well-being, ensuring our students are not only exceptional performers but also healthy, resilient individuals. These sessions provide them with essential skills and knowledge to navigate the physical and psychological demands of a demanding artistic career, preparing them for success both on and off the stage.

Performances

The Legat Dance Academy provides its students with a wealth of performance opportunities, offering a crucial bridge between their rigorous training and the demands of a professional dance career. These experiences are not merely about showcasing talent; they are integral to a dancer's development, building confidence, versatility, and real-world skills.

From Convention Stages to Theatrical Showcases

Legat students have the unique chance to perform on some of the UK's most prestigious dance stages. This includes attending and performing at major events like:

• Can You Dance? Super Convention: As the UK's largest touring dance convention, this event offers an unparalleled opportunity for our dancers. Legat students can take classes with industry professionals and perform on both the Main and Centre Stages.

• Move It at the ExCeL in London: Known as the world's biggest dance event, Move It brings together thousands of dancers, professionals, and brands. Performing on its stages, including the main stage and showcase theatres, exposes students to a vast audience and the vibrant atmosphere of the dance industry.

In addition to these external events, the academy cultivates a rich internal performance culture. This includes:

• Cabaret and Christmas Productions: Our school productions allow the students to develop their stage presence and perform in front of friends, family, and the wider school community. These events are well regarded for their professionalism and are key events in the school calendar

• School Musical: Our school's musical productions are held in professional external theatres, allowing dancers to apply their skills in a professional setting. This experience helps them integrate their dance training with acting and singing—crucial skills for becoming a "triplethreat" performer.

• Choreographic Competition: The Legat Solo Awards is particularly valuable as it challenges students to step beyond being performers and embrace the role of the choreographer. The students receive industry-led feedback and an opportunity to gain a solo in the end of year showcase.

• End-of-Year Showcase (The June Show): This is the culmination of the year's work, a huge showcase where all students can demonstrate their progress and artistry in a professional theatre setting.

Performing Arts Opportunities

Bede's Senior School offers a rich array of Performing Arts opportunities for students interested in drama, music, and dance. The curriculum provides a strong academic foundation, while co-curricular activities and professional partnerships allow students to pursue their passions and prepare for future careers.

Academic Programmes

The school offers core academic subjects in the performing arts. For drama, students can take GCSE and A Level Drama, which focus on both the practical and vocational aspects of performance and production. In music, A Level Music is available for students who wish to explore composition, performance, and musical theory.

Extra-Curricular and Individualised Coaching

Beyond the classroom, Bede's provides numerous ways for students to hone their skills. The BTEC Band offers a regular performance outlet for BTEC Music students, and the school also provides opportunities for students to learn an instrument through music lessons. For vocalists, private singing lessons can be arranged, and LAMDA lessons are available for students seeking to refine their acting and public speaking skills. Additionally, 1:1 coaching for audition preparation is offered to help aspiring performers get into prestigious drama and music schools. We also run a Musical Theatre Activity where students can work towards graded examinations and take part in showcases.

Performance and Production

Students have a wide range of opportunities to perform on stage. There are junior and senior productions each year, which provide showcases for the students' acting talent. For those interested in the technical side of theatre, the BTEC Theatre Production Course teaches all aspects of technical theatre, including lighting, sound, costume design, and set building.

Holly Saw

2017 Graduate, who has performed with companies like New Adventures and Ballet DJKT in the Czech Republic. She's danced lead roles, including Kim Boggs in Matthew Bourne's Edward Scissorhands and Victoria Page in The Red Shoes.

Alumni

Matthew Amos

2018 Graduate, currently dancing with New Adventures, having joined the company in 2023. He has performed in productions such as Matthew Bourne's Romeo and Juliet and Swan Lake.

“I think Legat has helped massively in my self determination and drive to continually better myself at the things I do, even on a day to day basis. The amazing people that I met and were taught by, always pushed me to try my best and I felt as though I always had support from them. My time in Legat is one that I will never forget.”

Chloe Castree

2022 graduate currently studying Geography

“Legat has been the most supportive stepping stone for me into the dance industry. The many performance opportunities allowed me to realise my passion for performing, whilst always being around an uplifting and encouraging team, building my confidence along the way. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

Zara Henstock

2022 Graduate who continued training at Urdang Academy

“I am so grateful to Legat for helping me improve and become a stronger, more passionate dancer in order to make my next step AND achieve my dream's of dancing professionally. I am so grateful to you all for giving me that opportunity and helping grow my confidence which I will carry through my career!”

Madeleine Hussein

2024 graduate currently studying at London Studio Centre

“I joined Bede’s in year 7 having been an Associate the year before. I’m so grateful for the constant support patience and belief in me from my teachers as well as the mentoring and coaching that helped me develop to where I am today.”

George Linehan

2021 Graduate who continued training at Central School of Ballet

Legat Associate Programmes

The Legat Dance Academy offers a Pre-Associate and Associate Programme for talented young dancers in the local area who want to supplement their existing training. These programmes provide a taste of vocational dance training and are designed to nurture a passion for dance.

Pre-Associate Programme

Aimed at dancers aged 7 to 9, the Pre-Associate Programme is an introduction to the world of vocational dance. It focuses on building a strong foundation in classical ballet and contemporary dance, with an emphasis on correct posture, placement, and musicality. This programme helps young dancers develop the core skills necessary to progress to a higher level of training.

Associate Programme

The Associate Programme is for dancers aged 10 to 17 who are committed to pursuing a career in dance. Building on the foundational skills, this course provides more intensive, high-quality training in core subjects like Ballet, Contemporary, and Jazz. Students refine their technique and are introduced to more advanced concepts such as pointe work, repertoire, and improvisation.

Programme Structure and Benefits

Held at our Legat studios at Bede's Senior School on Saturdays during term time, both programmes offer a personalised and creative approach to training. Taught by industry professionals, they are non-syllabus-based and designed to complement, not replace, a student's current dance school curriculum. As part of the programme, students can take part in a professional dance photoshoot, choreographic awards, workshops, and theatre trips. Our Associate students also perform in the Legat end-of-year showcase, providing valuable stage experience and reinforcing the performance skills essential for a career in dance.

Legat Summer School

Each summer, the Legat Dance Academy hosts its renowned Legat Summer School, offering an intensive and enriching experience for aspiring dancers aged 8 to 17. Our summer programme is designed to help students refine their technique, build confidence, and immerse themselves in the professional world of dance.

Students participate in a comprehensive curriculum that includes classes in classical ballet, contemporary dance, jazz dance, and creative choreography. Throughout the week, they also benefit from workshops with industry professionals. The programme culminates in a "show and tell" at the end of the week, where friends and family are invited to see the students' progress.

For students travelling from a distance, we offer boarding opportunities, providing a fully immersive experience.

For more information, please email legat@bedes.org.

Bede's Prep Dance

Bede’s Prep Dance offers teaching in a wide range of styles, including Ballet, Contemporary, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Street, Musical Theatre and Choreography for children of Nursery age through to Year 8. Dance is taught either through specialised dance classes held during the school day as part of the Dance Programme or through our clubs and activities.

Whether pupils want to learn purely for fun, or, if they are looking to train for a career in the performing arts, then Bede's Prep Dance offers them everything they need to fulfil their ambition.

All classes are taught by professional dance teachers who are specialists within their discipline and all classes are delivered at the highest possible standard. We offer dance exams in ISTD Modern and Tap as well as RAD Ballet. We are also one of the only places in the country that also offer the new ATAP Royal Ballet School syllabus.

Dance is taught as part of the curriculum at Bede’s Prep School through to Year 4, however, from Year 5 onwards, those pupils who want to take their dance further, can opt to participate in the Dance Programme. This offers a more intense level of dance training, which includes a combination of exam and free work classes. Dance Programme classes in Ballet, Modern and Tap do start from year 3 and run alongside the curriculum lessons for the younger year groups.

Pre-Prep pupils can also take ballet, tap and modern classes via Dance Clubs. From year 3 upwards the Dance Clubs can include musical theatre, freestyle jazz and choreography. These are all in addition to classes offered as part of the curriculum and the Dance Programme.

Education with a difference

Bede’s Senior School is an independent, co-educational school for pupils from the age of 13 to 18, offering both day and boarding places. Bede’s is located in the heart of the beautiful Sussex countryside, in the rural village of Upper Dicker in East Sussex.

At Bede’s, ‘we continue to craft a more joyful education’ is our school’s mission statement and is embedded in every aspect of school life. Whether a pupil is performing on stage, competing on the sports field, or debating in the latest Model United Nations conference, they are encouraged to pursue their interests with passion. This joyful approach to learning ensures that education is not just about academic success, but also about fostering a lifelong love for learning.

In 2024 Bede’s ranked 54th out of 2,541 schools in the UK for Value Added at Key Stage 5, placing the School in the top 3% (2.12%) nationally. By a significant margin, Bede’s is the most successful independent school in Sussex in terms of Value Added measures.

More than a school

Achieving the best academic results are important but we believe the journey to those results is just as important. Giving children the freedom to explore what matters to them, finding joy in their learning and simply being happy will ensure they reach their full potential, ready to take on the world.

Education extends far beyond academic achievement. It’s about nurturing well-rounded, compassionate individuals ready to embrace the world with courage and curiosity.

Our renowned co-curricular programme isn’t just an add-on; it’s woven into the very fabric of Bede’s. Every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoon, our pupils dive into activitiesgiving them the chance to explore, create and move.

These activities foster the resilience to face challenges, the empathy to connect with others and the creativity to innovate. Whether trying something new, or honing their existing skills, pupils are encouraged to explore their interests and find their passions.

We hope that our pupils leave Bede’s not just academically prepared, but as confident, compassionate and engaged young people, ready to make a positive impact on the world.

Admissions Process

All pupils wishing to apply for a place in Legat should first complete the standard application process for Bede’s.

Auditions are held in-person annually but we also accept online applications.

At both our Prep and Senior Schools the aim of our admissions process is to genuinely get to know each child as well as for families to gain a real insight into Bede’s. Many families may join us for an open day, but we also encourage families to return to experience the School on a normal working day. From there, we invite children to join us to experience the School for themselves, whether that be for a taster day at the Prep School or a Bede’s Experience Day or Sixth Form Information Day at the Senior School. Whatever age or interest a child has, our aim is that they get to know us and we them.

Discover more at bedes.org/discover

Book a virtual appointment with our friendly admissions team today. Email admissions@bedes.org or call +(44) 01323 356609

Bede’s offers scholarships and performance awards from Year 3 through to the Sixth Form, recognising excellence in a range of disciplines including Academics, Art, Drama, Dance, Music, Performing Arts and Sport.

Scholarships usually come with fee remission, but just as importantly they are given with a commitment from us to develop and extend each scholar’s talents, by providing expert tuition, enrichment and a supportive culture that challenges each child to expect more of themselves.

Bede’s is committed to helping talented pupils from all backgrounds benefit from a Bede’s education and therefore offers means-tested bursaries to parents on low incomes which can be combined with scholarships.

ACADEMIC 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

119 A-LEVEL CANDIDATES

RATE

A/A* GRADES AT A-LEVEL 99% MERIT & ABOVE AT BTEC A-LEVEL STUDENTS ACHIEVED AT LEAST 1 A/A* A*-B AT A-LEVEL BUSINESS STUDIES

36 SUBJECTS OFFERED AT GCSE GCSE PASS RATE 92% PUPILS INTO FIRST CHOICE UNIVERSITIES 40 SUBJECTS OFFERED AT A-LEVEL/BTEC A-LEVEL GRADES AWARDED AN A*

175 GCSE CANDIDATES

Senior School Fees

All fees include tuition, pastoral care and the vast majority of co-curricular and social activities. Boarding fees include all meals, accommodation and laundry costs.

Fees and supplements from September 2025 (including VAT) are as follows:

Termly Tuition Fees (Day Fees): £11,190

In addition to the Tuition Fees (Day Fees) the following Termly supplements also apply:-

Day Boarding Supplement: £310

Pre-Sixth / Sixth Form Supplement: £115

Legat: £400

Weekly Boarding Supplement: £5,305

Full Boarding Supplement: £6,335

To register your child a non-refundable fee is payable. Once offered, a place will only be secured on the payment of the security deposit and return of the acceptance form.