NSCD Prospectus

create | learn | inspire

Contents

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Welcome 01 About NSCD The Conservatoire for Dance and Drama

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Learning Our Courses 11 Facilities & Opportunities 13 Riley Theatre 15 Support 16 Entry Requirements 19 Applying 20 Auditioning 23 Fees & Finance 24 EU, EEA & International Students 27 Teaching Staff 28 Life at NSCD A Cultural Hub What Our Students Say Learning & Participation

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Life after NSCD Our Graduates Our Graduates Success

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Directions 43

Welcome You are about to take your next steps on a journey of dance discovery.

We are delighted to meet you.

Welcome

As Principal and Artistic Director of NSCD I have the great pleasure of watching outstanding young performers, choreographers and future dance leaders begin their career paths and emerge into the dance industry.

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Dance is transformative and at NSCD we see it changing lives. The staff and I are proud of the expressive, reflective performers and the distinctive creative voices emerging from the school. It's extremely rewarding to see our graduates achieving their ambitions. In so doing, many are breaking new ground. We are also very excited to see many of them interested in reaching out to help make the world a better place through dance, knowing that dance matters.

NSCD remains committed to the widening access mission of our founding Principal, the visionary and pioneering Nadine Senior MBE. Our mission is to provide inspirational learning, enabling aspiring dance artists, regardless of background, to shape the future of dance. We relish the diversity in our student body and the creativity and cultural enrichment this brings to NSCD’s community and to our lives.

Our educational approach encourages the openness and the personal growth required to become an artist. Through working together many of our students form artistic collaborations that become intrinsic to their professional careers.

We provide an inclusive learning environment and nurture a spirit of generosity in which everyone is equally valued. We encourage learning through ‘mistakes’ and aim to provide a safe place for students to take creative risks; to dare to be excellent and to inspire others.

NSCD’s international staff is dedicated to providing an outstanding student experience. Many guest artists and companies enhance our provision, enabling students to build connections to the professional world. Our students are in safe hands and a friendly, intimate and supportive environment which they tell us feels like home.

Our practice is hard work and requires dedication and commitment. Having been a dancer, choreographer and artistic director, I understand the physical and mental ability necessary to succeed in this business. So student wellbeing is of paramount importance. Where support is needed we aim to provide it at the highest level. We help students take responsibility to look after their own health and wellbeing as part of their professional development.

Our alumni pursue varied careers as dance artists; performers, choreographers, artistic directors and dance teachers.

Some go on to transfer their skills to careers in arts education, arts management and leadership, or to work with physical therapies, health and nutrition.

NSCD will help you build the skills, discipline and resources for a sustainable career and a fulfilling life in and beyond dance.

Janet Smith Principal and Artistic Director

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About NSCD

About NSCD

NSCD has a growing international reputation as a world-leading centre for dance education and attracts students from across the UK, Europe and worldwide.

With approximately 220 students across all courses NSCD is small enough for everyone to know each other, for students to make friends and collaborate across year groups.

Our programmes focus on nurturing resourceful and versatile individual dance artists with highly-tuned technical, creative and performance skills.

The school provides a professional environment in which students can experience the very best contemporary dance practice. The courses expose students to a range of contemporary techniques and ballet enriched by other classes and workshops, including Yoga and body-mind classes. Input from visiting artists compliments the curriculum to include techniques such as Gaga and Flying-Low. Students also study choreography, improvisation, site-specific performance, screen dance and research methods. At all levels of study we aim to develop the reflective skills and somatic understanding required to become articulate and expressively nuanced dance artists.

We believe it is vital for students to make the connection between technical training, creative exploration and performance.

Accordingly, all students have opportunities to perform their own creative work and work created by professionals. There are a variety of platforms across the school year in a range of settings, depending on the course chosen. Performances happen within the school and at numerous venues across the region and beyond.

We offer: — Access to HE Diploma in Contemporary Dance: This one-year, full-time programme sets the groundwork for further in-depth professional training.

Our students become enriched with a range of technical, creative and performance experiences in a variety of contexts, which prepare them at the start of their journey towards a career in dance.

— BA (Hons) in Dance (Contemporary): This is a three-year full-time degree programme focused on the development of versatile and individual dance artists.

Students become performers with highly tuned technical and creative skills, developed through dance experiences in a variety of professional, studio and community contexts.

— MA in Contemporary Dance Performance (VERVE): This one-year, full-time programme offers students a safe and inspiring space to grow as artists, rigorously challenging their physical skill and building an understanding of the professional working environment.

— MA in Contemporary Dance Performance (PAS): This one-year, fulltime programme provides an opportunity for students to undertake extensive professional development and refine their skills as performers, whilst apprenticing with professional dance companies.

— MA in Dance and Creative Enterprise: Our new Masters programme enables dance graduates and professionals at varying stages of their careers to evolve and advance their artistic practice, whilst gaining further understanding of its value as a creative enterprise.

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About NSCD

Why Choose NSCD Through the National Student Survey 2016 our students told us why they thought NSCD was right for them: 96% of students said that staff made the subject interesting and were enthusiastic about what they are teaching.

NSCD is part of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama which is ranked number one amongst UK performing arts conservatoires for overall student satisfaction (90%).

"The teaching staff are incredible, I get a genuine sense they care about individuals and are available to offer help and support and point me in the right direction."

Inclusivity NSCD aims to recruit students with the most potential. The diversity in our student body enriches the life of the school, feeding creativity and the crossfertilisation of ideas. We are delighted to have students from different countries and cultures, of different ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds and abilities learning together.

"My lecturers enabled me to pursue my career with seriousness and devotion‌ furnishing me every day with the instruments to keep on working on what I considered necessary for my development. Their teaching allowed me to learn how to learn."

We continue to work really hard at NSCD to identify the barriers students may face which prevent them accessing training or make it difficult for them to participate once they are here. We make it our duty to accept an individual's needs and make reasonable adjustments accordingly.

"I loved the variety of classes and workshops. They offered something for everyone during our time here.

The standard was consistently high."

We recognise the financial difficulty some students face with financing their training. Bursaries are available to support students with the cost of intensive professional training.

100% of students said they were able to contact staff whenever they needed them.

"Great teaching approach.

All the subjects linked together."

"Learner support is very catered to my needs."

"We are able to book out and use the theatre space which is brilliant and unique."

"The resources on offer in the library are sublime. The staff there have been very helpful over my entire time at NSCD." "The school is very open and friendly; I felt a genuine sense of community which informed my choice to study here."

Visit www.nscd.ac.uk for details or www.cdd.ac.uk.

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The Conservatoire for Dance and Drama

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NSCD is one of eight institutions that form the world-leading Conservatoire for Dance and Drama.

The Conservatoire is publicly-funded through the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) and students are jointly registered with NSCD and the Conservatoire.

The eight Conservatoire schools are: 01 Bristol Old Vic Theatre School 02 Central School of Ballet

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As a partnership the Conservatoire offers world-class professional education and training in acting, circus arts, dance and technical theatre.

The Conservatoire’s unique structure gives students opportunities for collaboration beyond the individual affiliate school. It also ensures that those schools receive government funding which contributes to the high cost of intensive training and education.

03 London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art 04 L ondon Contemporary Dance School 05 National Centre for Circus Arts 06 Northern School of Contemporary Dance 07 Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance 08 Royal Academy of Dramatic Art

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Further information about the Conservatoire is available at — www.cdd.ac.uk 07

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Learning

Our Courses — Access to HE Diploma in Contemporary Dance — BA (Hons) Dance (Contemporary) — MA Contemporary Dance Performance (VERVE) — MA Contemporary Dance Performance (Professional Apprenticeship Scheme PAS)

Learning

— MA Dance and Creative Enterprise

Full course details are available from www.nscd.ac.uk or as a leaflet at the back of this prospectus.

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Learning

Facilities & Opportunities “NSCD support staff have been excellent at sharing what Leeds has to offer, such as a variety of exciting events and performances from around the city” To view a virtual tour of the facilities go to: www.youtube.com/northernschool.

Seven Large Dance Studios each with a fully sprung floor and access to live accompaniment for technique classes.

Studios have integrated video and audio replay equipment and ballet barres.

The Lighting Studio is a black box space used for stagecraft practice to study aspects of theatre lighting, sound and stage management. It is also used for informal sharings of small scale work, video projections, installations and multi-media work.

The Video and Sound Editing Suite has video cameras, iMac desktop computers and industry standard software available for students to record and create digital work.

The Library and Archive provides onsite and electronically, all the reference materials needed to support our students including access to a collection of 15000+ print items, a variety of online subscriptions to arts databases and journals, helpdesk, friendly staff and student computers. The library also includes the NSCD Media Archive providing students and staff with access to performance and assessment footage online on and offsite. The Library also acts as a gateway to university library collections across the country via the SCONUL Access scheme.

Student Employment Events The school offers paid employment opportunities in our Library, in stage management, at the box office, bar, cafe and front of house as well as through NSCD’s learning and participation programme.

Enrichment and Extra Curricular Opportunities Students can participate in and lead classes and forge opportunities to develop professional networks in and outside of the school.

ERASMUS+2 Opportunities In 2017/18 we are delighted to be introducing ERASMUS+ and already have exchange links with the Palucca School, Germany, and Fontys Academy at the University of Tilburg in the Netherlands.

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Learning

Riley Theatre

NSCD students have access to Riley Theatre's atmospheric performance space with both classes and rehearsals taking place on stage on a regular basis.

There are opportunities for students to meet and work with visiting companies and dance artists, rehearsing and performing in the theatre, and make connections with the professional world. Visiting artists appreciate the intrinsic qualities of our theatre and the special atmosphere of Riley Theatre’s public performances, supported by our enthusiastic audiences.

We host a varied programme of performances during the year. These include community platforms, student and emerging artist showcases and professional performances by UK and international companies.

Learning

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Support We want our students to get the best out of their time with us so we provide varying levels of support. Student Services staff offer a one stop shop and are available for advice on a daily basis. They can signpost specialist providers if necessary.

We encourage students to tell us about any disabilities, impairments or conditions (for example dyslexia, a physical, sensory or mental health condition) at the earliest opportunity so that support can be put in place. Students may make a disclosure at any point during their studies.

Disability NSCD recognises and has embedded the expectations of current disability equality legislation, and supports students with a declared disability or special educational need in its teaching. Within all modules we will make reasonable adjustments wherever necessary, including additional or substitute materials, teaching modes or assessment methods for students who have declared and discussed their learning support needs.

Learner Support The Learner Support Coordinator is available to offer advice and assistance to students with a disability or Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD), such as dyslexia. Additional support is also provided for students wishing to claim the Disabled Student Allowance.

Health and Wellbeing The Health and Wellbeing Coordinator provides students with the opportunity to talk about personal issues in complete confidence and in a private setting.

English Language Support Support to develop language skills is provided through classes and 1:1s with the English Language Tutor.

Support is tailored and course specific.

Fitness and Injury Support Along with an in-house Injury Support Clinic, rehabilitation classes and gym area, the school works in collaboration with osteopathy, physiotherapy, massage and acupuncture providers. All students are provided with guidance on nutrition and fitness.

Finance Our finance team can offer support and advice with bursaries, scholarships and loan applications. We often advise students during times of difficulty and hardship and are happy to discuss any issues in confidence.

Healthy Dancer Days are timetabled termly and offer alternative classes, seminars and workshops to supplement and inform training whilst providing a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

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Our admissions team are regularly praised by students for their efficient and personal service from applying and auditioning through to enrolment.

Learning

Entry Requirements Access to HE Diploma — Entry is via a successful audition and interview. Places are offered to applicants who have the greatest potential to benefit from the course regardless of their previous dance experience.

— A minimum of four GCSE’s, including English Language, at grade C or above (Level 4 from 2017) or equivalent qualifications.

BA (Hons) — Entry is via a successful audition and interview.

— Two A’ Level passes or or a BTEC National diploma or professional/vocational training at an appropriate level — and five GCSE passes, including English Language, at grade C or above (Level 4 from 2017).

Equivalent qualifications may also be acceptable depending on the strength of the grades achieved.

Masters (VERVE, PAS) — Entry is via a successful audition and interview.

— Bachelor degree in dance or Level 6 qualification.

Masters Dance & Creative Enterprise — Entry is through a remote online application via the submission of a showreel, written piece of work and an online interview.

— Bachelor degree in dance or Level 6 qualification. or — Professional experience and equivalent vocational dance training.

U, EEA and International E Entry Requirements NSCD is open to applicants from outside the UK. If a conditional place is offered following an audition, students will be asked to submit all academic and English language qualifications.

Academic Qualifications Qualifications should be the equivalent level to those listed on this page.

Students unsure whether the academic qualifications are equivalent to British qualifications, might find the following information helpful: Applicants whose first language is not English are required to have a B2 Level English language qualification which is equivalent to a UK GCSE English language (Grades A*-C).

In certain countries English studied at school is comparable to the required level, provided these subjects have been taken and successfully passed in the final examinations with the required grades where stated. Qualifications gained, including grades believed to be comparable to the B2 level should be submitted to the admissions team for them to check with NARIC (The National Academic Recognition Information Centre). The student will then be notified whether they are exempt from taking additional English language tests for entry. lternatively a student will need to take an A approved English language examination at B2 level such as IELTS (Overall band of 6) or Cambridge ESOL (score 169).

International applicants who will require a Tier 4 visa, if offered a place, should view the List of Approved English Tests, at B2 level at: www.gov.uk/ government/publications.

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Learning

Applying Applications to study at NSCD are submitted via an online application form.

Please go to www.nscd.ac.uk to apply.

Places are limited, so applying early is recommended.

The application process for each year opens in October of the year prior to joining. For example; if a student would like to join in September 2018 the application process opens in October 2017. Applications usually close in December for the Masters programmes and the following January and February for the Access and BA (Hons) courses.

Details of closing dates and audition dates are available at www.nscd.ac.uk.

A non-refundable audition fee is payable by all applicants at the point of booking an audition. If a student anticipates any difficulties paying the audition fee they should contact our admissions team at admissions@nscd. ac.uk. The Conservatoire for Dance and Drama offers an Audition/Interview Fee Waiver Scheme for UK BA applicants, based on household income. Details can be found on their website: www.cdd.ac.uk/students/ how-to-apply.

NSCD welcomes applications from people with disabilities. We would encourage a student to disclose this on their application so we can make the appropriate arrangements to meet their individual needs. Approximatley 30% of NSCD students disclose a specific disability each year and are supported appropriatley.

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Learning

Auditioning The audition process is designed to assess a student's potential as a dance artist and suitability for the course.

Details of audition content is available at: www.nscd.ac.uk The audition usually consists of activities that will enable a student to show us their potential in the following key competencies: — physical ability, experience and/or potential — performance ability — creativity — critical thinking — reflective engagement — suitability for the programme of study For the Access to HE and BA (Hons) courses, auditions will be held between December and March/April. If a student wishes to apply for both courses they need only attend one audition. We do not usually request call-back auditions.

Details of audition dates are available at www.nscd.ac.uk.

For the Masters programmes (VERVE and PAS), first round auditions will be held in Leeds in January/February. Applicants wishing to apply for both courses need only attend one first round audition If successful for either pathway they will need to be available for call-back auditions.

For the Masters in Dance and Creative Enterprise Application is via the submission of a showreel, written piece of work and an online interview.

EU, EEA and International Applicants NSCD welcomes EU/EEA and International applicants and we are committed to improving accessibility to our auditions for applicants from further afield. We hold auditions outside the UK, for the Access to HE and BA (Hons)

courses and also offer a remote audition for all courses through submission of a DVD, via a URL, Vimeo or YouTube link. This option should be selected when making an application and should be submitted by the date stated when booking an audition. The required content of your video footage and the submission dates are available at www.nscd.ac.uk/ study/apply/auditioning.

EU and EEA applicants who are shortlisted for the Postgraduate Apprenticeship Scheme, from the first round remote audition, will later need to attend company auditions in Leeds. Course applicants who are shortlisted for VERVE and/or Dance and Creative Enterprise, via the first round remote audition, may choose to attend the call-back audition in Leeds.

Important information for applicants applying for the Masters in Contemporary Dance (PAS) from outside the UK/EU. Please note that unfortunately NSCD, along with other conservatoire schools, is unfortunately unable to accept applications from international students for this programme. This is due to the nature of the course being mainly ‘off-site’ and this does not allow us to meet our Tier 4 duties.

We are, however, able to accept international applications for our Postgraduate Company VERVE and the MA Dance and Creative Enterprise.

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Learning

Fees & Finance Our course fees are set by the school and the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama.

As a guide these are the annual tuition fees for entry in 2017/18 Please check our website for the most up to date information.

Access to HE Course: £4000 – UK/EU students* £6000 – International students Undergraduate: £9250 – UK/EU students £17,500 – International students** Postgraduate: £7000 – UK/EU students £17,500 – International students** Fees are published on both websites: www.nscd.ac.uk and www.cdd.ac.uk.

Fees are different for the Access, Degree and Masters courses. There are also different rates depending on whether a student is from the UK/EU or an international student.

Student Loans Eligible UK or EU undergraduate students can apply for a Tuition Fee loan from the Student Loans Company, regardless of household income which is paid directly to the school each year.

Eligible UK undergraduate students can also apply for a maintenance loan to help with living costs which is dependent on household income.

Eligible postgraduate UK or EU students can apply for a postgraduate loan from the Student Loans Company to help with tuition fees and living costs.

Students are not expected to pay a student loan back until after graduation, and only then, once earning over the repayment threshold (currently £21,000 a year).

Students with a Disability If you experience a disability you may be entitled to a grant to cover additional study costs. The Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA) is a grant to help some disabled students cover additional costs that arise as a direct result of a disability.

Loans and Scholarships NSCD may be able to offer financial support for students starting a course for the first time, or those who have a degree already and are pursuing professional training for a career in a chosen discipline.

Information about the variety of financial support available for BA(Hons) and Postgraduate / MA applicants can be found on our website, through the Conservatoire Scholarship Scheme and through government grants and loans. For more information visit www.nscd.ac.uk.

Please note that the Conservatoire and NSCD reserve the right to alter the exact amount payable for all their courses prior to enrolment.

NOTE: Tuition fees may rise in subsequent years in line with inflation. * This course is funded for all UK and EU students aged under 19. Students aged between 19 and 24 who have not previously studied for a full level three qualification (i.e. the equivalent of 2 ‘A’ levels) may also be entitled to a fee waiver.

Students over 19 may also be entitled to receive support through an advanced learner loan. ** There are bursaries for eligible international students, see the website for details.

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Learning

EU & International Students NSCD’s current student population comes from 26 different countries, with 30% of students coming from outside the UK.

We are delighted that almost a third of our full-time students join us from outside the UK. The diversity of cultures at the school enhances creativity and broadens the learning experience.

At NSCD we are continually looking for opportunities for students to increase their experience and awareness of different artistic approaches. As well as inviting guest performers, and workshops from visiting artists and companies, we have a number of established links with specialist dance departments and graduate companies in Europe.

Entry Requirements Please read EU, EEA and International Entry Requirements on page 15.

English Language Support We want our students to feel at home as studying in a new country is a big step. To help students to settle in, NSCD provides Orientation Days. We also provide ongoing English language support throughout the courses.

Tier 4 Student Visas NSCD is licensed to sponsor migrant students under Tier 4. If a place is offered at NSCD we will provide full details about the visa application process. Information about Tier 4 (general) student visas can be found at https://www.gov.uk/tier-4general-visa/overview.

Applying Please see the Applying and Auditioning section on page 17.

What our international students say "My first week at NSCD was challenging, but still perfect when I look back at it now. I am really grateful for the two extra days we got before the UK students came because it gave us a calm start to it all."

Idun Salamonsen, Norwegian Undergraduate student "I want to point out how amazing the atmosphere feels to me. Everyone at the school is so nice – students as well as teachers and the rest of the staff; I feel safe and comfortable at the school."

Jasmine Gordon, Danish Undergraduate student "I chose NSCD because I enjoyed the audition the most. Also, a youtube video of third year student solos made me want to study here. The staff were willing to help me always. My tutor was very helpful in my final year when I got injured. They have a counsellor and injury support as well. I would say there is a supportive atmosphere at school from students and teachers. If you want to dance with very unique and enthusiastic people, I recommend to come to NSCD!" Tomoko Kagatsume, Japan, Undergraduate student

Learning

Teaching Staff

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We are very proud of the extensive expertise of our dedicated permanent teaching staff, many of whom have worked internationally as performers, creators and teachers. They bring specialist skills and vast experience to their work to help each student reach their full potential and prepare for the profession.

James Else PhD Head of Creative and Contextual Studies

We invest in ongoing development and research-based teaching to ensure our practice remains current and some of our lecturers continue as practising artists.

Matthew Robinson VERVE Artistic Director

Jane McKernan Lecturer in Creative and Contextual studies Mark Baker MA Theatre and Production Manager

Matt Slater PgDip Lecturer in Performance (Contemporary)

As well as the permanent staff we provide many visiting artists to supplement and support our in-house expertise.

Nathalie Leger Lecturer in Technique and Performance

Teaching Staff (Top L–R)

Susanne Thomas Lecturer in Creative and Contextual Studies

Anna Williams Lecturer in Creative and Contextual Studies Clive Wilkinson MA Lecturer in Creative and Contextual Studies Deborah Ford BA (Hons) Lecturer in Performance (Contemporaary) Eric Assandri PGCLTHE, FHEA Lecturer in Performance (Ballet)

Shirley Jacobs Master in Teaching (Dance), FHEA, PGCLTHE, BA (Hons) FCCD Programme Coordinator and Lecturer in Performance (Contemporary) Tiia Ourila MA Postgraduate Apprenticeship Scheme and Careers Coordinator, Lecturer in Performance (Contemporary) Musicians

Darren Carr MA Director of Studies Francesca McCarthy MA Head of Performance Hana Z. E. Goseling MA Lecturer in Performance (Ballet)

Danny Templeman Adam Warne, Percussion (Pictured) Eddy Sparrow, Percussion (Pictured) Azizi Cole, Percussion (Pictured) Otis Jones James Philips Lee Shiel, Pianist (Pictured) Jon Chamberlain, Pianist (Pictured) Alena Panasenka Lizzy Joyce Guest Lecturers Dawn Holgate Rachel Fullegar Rita Marcalo

Read our staff biographies online — www.nscd.ac.uk

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Life at NSCD

Leeds is one of the UK’s most vibrant, student-friendly and fastest growing cities.

It has a student population of over 250,000 and has been voted the 'Best UK University Destination' by The Independent. Jan 2016

A Cultural Hub Leeds is the dance capital of the UK outside London, and is also home to some of the best theatres and public art collections of international significance outside London. The city is also home to a thriving independent arts scene and boasts venues including Leeds City Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute. Phoenix Dance Theatre, Northern Ballet and Yorkshire Dance are based in Leeds. Yorkshire regularly hosts national and international touring dance companies. Numerous artist collectives and studio spaces provide ample opportunity to meet potential collaborators. An enviable array of Yoga, pilates and gym classes provide exercise and relaxation opportunities.

Photo credit Trinity Leeds

Life at NSCD

Living in Leeds

Inspiring Surroundings Yorkshire Sculpture Park lies close to the nearby city of Wakefield, which also boasts the Hepworth Gallery.

Neighbouring Bradford is home to the National Media Museum and historic York, recently voted Britain’s most beautiful city, is just 25 minutes away by train. A short journey will take you to the peace and quiet of the Yorkshire Dales, the North Yorkshire Moors and the east coast’s stunning landscapes, which have inspired numerous artists over the centuries, examples of which can be found in the David Hockney gallery in nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saltaire Village.

Photos courtesy of Leeds City Council

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Life at NSCD A Student-Friendly City Leeds is home to over 250,000 students across its college's and universities. The city centre is full of exciting and varied bars, restaurants and clubs. Leeds Arena and the O2 Academy contribute to an excellent live music scene. Shopping in Leeds combines high street favourites and unique boutiques, both in the beautifully restored Victorian arcades and world-class developments Trinity Leeds and Victoria Gate. Leeds Kirkgate Market is the largest indoor market in Europe and is highly recommended for fresh produce at student-friendly prices.

Staying in Leeds The student accommodation in Leeds is plentiful. Most of our students choose to live in shared rented houses near to the school, or in purpose-built student accommodation in the city centre. The diverse range of accommodation on offer will suit most budgets, tastes and the type of experiences students look for.

Accomodation details will be provided and students will be invited to attend the NSCD house hunting day to look at the variety of housing available. NSCD does not have its own accommodation but subscribes to UNIPOL, a charitable trust that helps students to secure rented accommodation.

Leeds Carnival (pictured middle left) is a big annual event held in Chapeltown on our doorstep.

Traveling from Leeds As the UK’s eighth largest city, Leeds has its own international airport, as well as strong connections by train to Manchester and London. There are frequent train and bus connections into Leeds from Leeds Bradford Airport, taking around 30 minutes, with buses and taxis available to take you from the centre to other areas of the city. The bus from the centre to the school takes less than 10 minutes. eeds is well placed in the centre L of the UK for travelling around via train, bus or plane: — London is 2 hours by train.

— Edinburgh is 3 hours by train.

— Manchester is an hour away by train.

— Inverness, the capital of the Highlands of Scotland is 45 minutes away by plane from Manchester, — There are many international flight links from Leeds Bradford Airport. or further information about F Leeds life, here are a few websites you may want to visit: https://youtu.be/XLssuRT7ICg Welcome to Leeds film www.welcometoleeds.co.uk www.leedswelcome.com www.independentleeds.co.uk www.visitleeds.co.uk www.leeds-list.com www.leedsinspired.co.uk www.yorkshiredance.com www.leeds.gov.uk www.yorkshire.com

Life at NSCD

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What Our Students Say "The Access Course is jam packed with opportunities and projects. The fast paced year meant that we were able to develop a wide variety of skills: from ballet and contemporary technique, to choreography and teaching.

For me, a highlight was rehearsal period during which we experienced a creative process similar to that of the profession.

This culminated in a performance at the Riley Theatre which was another fantastic experience. While studying on the Access course I have developed more confidence and creativity. I am now willing to take risks with my creative work which has helped me to become more innovative with my ideas. The course has helped me to develop a professional outlook to my studies; I understand my body more thoroughly and take more responsibility for improving myself with the help of my tutors. At NSCD you receive an intense dance training which is complemented with workshops and extra curricular opportunities." Sarah Swift, Access to Higher Education Diploma Contemporary Dance.

"I feel like I can be myself at school.

The school is filled with kind and inclusive people who are open and there are very diverse people as well, which makes it more interesting to get to know them." Carl Joseph Aquilizan, Norway Undergraduate student.

"My time at NSCD was an unforgettable experience. It is a fantastic place to try, succeed and develop - all with the love and support from students and staff.

The school is about creating smart, professional and independent dancers by celebrating and developing their potential and skills. Studying at NSCD is very hard work but there is also time to have fun and invest in yourself by finding your own individuality. As an international student I got all the help and support that I needed – always with a smile and warm words. Now that I am graduating I am much stronger technically but also much more confident as an independent dance artist. I cannot wait to see what the future brings." Karolina Szymanska, Poland, Undergraduate student "I am now into my sixth year as a student at this school and as part of VERVE 17, I feel blessed. To have access to an environment surrounded by inspiring and supportive teachers/ artists that continuously encourage our self-development is something not to be taken for granted. We get to go on tour, create our own independent projects and just generally get a feel of what life in the professional world is like.

I feel that if there is one thing that my training at NSCD has taught me, it is that we are forever growing, developing and seeking to explore our practice further to fulfil our own potential."

Mason Jubb, VERVE

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Life at NSCD

Learning & Participation

Learning & Participation at NSCD provides community access and participation. We nurture an inclusive and mutually-respectful learning environment and provide a place for participants, of all ages and abilities to enjoy, engage in and learn through contemporary dance.

Our Learning & Participation team provides a number of opportunities for children as young as 5 through to adults.

From classes and courses, including our Centre for Advanced Training Programme, to bespoke programmes for schools, community groups and professional development for artists.

We also contribute to the strategic development of dance in the North and invest in widening participation, outreach and other activities that enable as many people as possible to engage in dance as audience members and participants.

Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) Northern School of Contemporary Dance’s CAT scheme is part of a national intensive dance programme for 13-18 year olds who display exceptional potential and passion for dance.

Through the national provision of highly specialised training for young people, artists are cultivated at a critical stage in their development in order to prepare them for successful and rewarding careers in the arts. NSCD has over 60 CAT students every year, a number of whom continue onto our full-time programmes.

There are opportunities for students on our FE and HE courses to get involved with NSCD Learning and Participation.

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Our Graduates NSCD consistently provides some of the highest level dance graduates in Europe

Life after NSCD

James Wilton; Artistic Director, James Wilton Dance

Our courses prepare students for a demanding and competitive profession.

The training is rigorous and challenging, requiring a high level of commitment and determination. Students are encouraged to become pro-active, independent and collaborative artists.

The school maintains close links with the constantly evolving professional dance world through visiting companies, guest teachers and our programme of public performances at the Riley Theatre.

Tutorial guidance and careers-focused sessions are held regularly, as well as mock auditions with professional companies, and seminars on effectively managing a freelance or portfolio career.

Through both course content and extracurricular professional development opportunities, students can grow their talent within the field and gain the versatility required for marketing themselves as dance artists. By working across a range of performance, creative and educational contexts, NSCD students develop confidence in their own ability.

NSCD alumni can be seen leading or performing with numerous dance companies across the UK and Europe, presenting independent work at many theatres and arts centres, and also as inspirational teachers and arts leaders across the dance sector. We are also proud that in the North of England 50% of dance companies selected for Arts Council England funding as National Portfolio Organisations (NPOs) are led

by NSCD graduates.

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Life after NSCD Each student leaves with a wealth of technical and creative knowledge and more importantly, a hunger and determination to succeed within the super competitive dance world. As well as the superb training the school also has a nurturing and positive environment that is a pleasure to work in." James Wilton; Artistic Director, James Wilton Dance "I have always been inspired by the amazing energy, creativity, technical facility, human qualities and open mindedness that are demonstrated by the NSCD students. I work at several dance institutions around Europe and feel that NSCD graduates are amongst the most employable dancers/ performers." Filip Van Huffel; Artistic Director, Retina Dance Company Some of the companies that our graduates are leading, founded or co-founded: — ACE Dance and Music — Balbir Singh Dance Company — Company Chameleon — DeNada Dance — Gary Clarke Company — Gracefool Collective — New Art Club — Phoenix Dance Theatre — RJC Dance — 2Faced Dance Company

Photo: Graduate Josh Wild has worked with Scottish Dance Theatre and BalletBoyz. The photo is by graduate, Josh Hawkins, who after a year performing with Smallpetitklien in Scotland has gone on to create and choreograph for Hawkins Dance, supported by Arts Council England.

"Dancers from NSCD are fantastic to work with as they are very instinctive.

Not only do they have a sensational physicality but they are also versatile in their approach to choreography and movement". Tamsin Fitzgerald; Artistic Director, 2Faced Dance Company "No matter how many people audition – and there are hundreds – the energy, gustiness and creative physicality of NSCD graduates stands out from the crowd" Louise Richards; Executive Director, Motionhouse "As an ex-student, it’s always a real pleasure to return to NSCD to work with the students. They have outstanding creativity, openness, professionalism and work ethic, which is a true reflection that NSCD continues to be one of the best schools in the sector" Gary Clarke, Artistic Director, Gary Clarke Company small sample of the dance A companies our graduates have joined: — Adventures in Motion Pictures — Ballet Boyz — Candoco Dance Company — DeNada Dance Theatre — Gary Clarke Company — Hawkins Dance — Hofesh Shechter Dance Company — James Wilton Dance Company — Liv Lorent Dance Company — Mark Bruce Dance Company — Motionhouse — Phoenix Dance Theatre — Protein Dance — Retina Dance Company — Richard Alston Dance Company — Scottish Dance Theatre — Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company — Wim Vanderkaybus

Life after NSCD

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Our Graduates' Success Since its foundation NSCD has made a huge impact on the UK and international Dance scene. Here are a few of our NSCD alumni who have made dance a career.

Akram Khan MBE Akram Khan is one of the most acclaimed choreographers of his generation currently working in Britain and across the world. Akram Khan Dance Company is a platform for innovation and a diverse range of work through collaboration with acclaimed artists including visual artist Anish Kapoor, composer Nitin Sawhney, dancer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, sculptor Antony Gormley, ballerina Sylvie Guillem and Oscar-winning actress Juliette Binoche. Akram is currently Associate Artist at Sadler’s Wells, London. He was awarded an MBE for services to dance in 2005. A recent career highlight was the creation of a section of the London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony; featuring many NSCD graduates, this was received with unanimous acclaim.

Anthony Missen & Kevin Edward Turner at Company Chameleon Company Chameleon started when Anthony and Kevin met at Trafford Youth Dance Theatre in the mid-1990s.

Developing their talent they then trained at NSCD, and after graduating travelled extensively to work with some of the most innovative dance companies and choreographers in the world before founding Company Chameleon.

Anthony Missen has recently been named as a fellow of the Clore Leadership Programme 2016/2017. The Clore Leadership Programme awards 25 Clore Fellowships annually to exceptional individuals from across the arts and cultural sector.

Anthony said “NSCD provided me with skills not only for my physical performance as a dancer, but offered me a great place to develop an understanding of what I would like to achieve out of my career, and what direction that might take.”

Carlos Pons Guerra, Independent Choreographer and Artistic Director of DeNada Dance Theatre Carlos began his ballet training in Gran Canaria, Spain, before moving to Leeds to study. At NSCD he completed both the Foundation Course and BPA (Hons) in Contemporary Dance. He says "My years at NSCD were a great experience. I was taught by inspiring and knowledgeable teachers, challenged and nurtured, and met amazing people. NSCD is unique for its closeness between its students and staff, and for the incredible opportunities it offers. I’ve had the chance to work with several dance institutions in Yorkshire, widen my network of contacts, shadow choreographers and gain teaching experience at different levels."

Gary Clarke Gary Clarke is currently regarded as one of the UK’s leading independent dance artists. Since graduating from NSCD (2001), Gary has worked prolifically as a performer with companies and choreographers of international standing including Lea Anderson’s The Cholmondeleys & The Featherstonehaughs, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Lloyd Newson’s DV8 Physical Theatre, Liv Lorent’s balletLORENT, Candoco Dance Company /Jerome Bel and Retina Dance Company.

Gary has also established himself as an award winning choreographer whose work has toured extensively nationally and internationally to critical and audience Acclaim.

Gary more recently won the UK National Theatre Award for Achievement in Dance for his production COAL.

Kate Cox, Sofia Edstrand, Rachel Fullegar and Rebecca Holmberg – Gracefool Collective Since forming in May 2013 they have twice been shortlisted for the Vantage Art Prize. Previous commissions have included Arrivals and Departures festival (curated by Yorkshire Dance), Furnace (West Yorkshire Playhouse) and Northern Connections (NSCD). Gracefool also undertake choreographic commissions and masterclasses in educational settings at Conservatoire, higher education and CAT scheme level. Gracefool were the 2014/15 beneficiaries of CATAPULT – a year long professional development programme delivered by NSCD, Spin Arts Management, and Yorkshire Dance awarded to the most exceptional emerging dance maker(s) in the North. They are currently Barnsley Civic CARP artists for 2016.

Tamsin Fitzgerald Tamsin graduated from NSCD in 1998 after studying the BPA (Hons) in Contemporary Dance. Tamsin founded 2FacedDance and successfully toured throughout Europe for five years. Since founding 2FacedDance Tamsin has choreographed five major works for the company and has choreographed commissions for NSCD among others.

In 2009 she was awarded the Rayne Fellowship for Choreography, and more recently in 2013 she won the prestigious Jerwood Choreographic Research Prize.

In 2015 she established The Bench, a programme to support women working within the UK Dance sector.

About NSCD

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Directions Car Enter LS7 4BH into your Sat Nav, or follow the directions below.

From M1 The M1 becomes the M621 just outside Leeds. Continue on the M621, exiting at J4. Follow signs to Harrogate. You will pass Tetley’s Brewery on the left, then the West Yorkshire Playhouse on the right.

Continue to follow signs to Harrogate until you pick up signs to Chapeltown. NSCD is just beyond the Sheepscar Interchange, on the right, opposite the Norma Hutchinson park (approximately 4 miles in total from the motorway).

From M62 (East) Take the M1 north at J29 and then follow directions above.

From M62 (West) Leave the M62 at J27 and take the M621 into Leeds. Exit at J2, and follow signs to Harrogate via the Armley roundabout. This will take you onto the Inner Ring Road for a short stretch. Exit at the Harrogate sign. Pick up Chapeltown signs. NSCD is just beyond the Sheepscar Interchange, on the right, opposite the Norma Hutchinson park.

From the North At the A61/A6120 roundabout on the Leeds Outer Ring Road, follow signs to Leeds. At next immediate roundabout take Harrogate Road (not the A61) through Moortown and Chapel Allerton. Harrogate Road then turns into Chapeltown Road and NSCD will be on the left, opposite the Norma Hutchinson park.

Public transport Bus Take bus number 2, 3, 3a or 48 from stand V4 in Leeds City Centre (opposite Kirkgate Market) to Chapeltown (approximately 10 minutes). The bus stop is located on Chapeltown Road opposite NSCD, alongside the Norma Hutchinson park.

Train There are frequent trains to Leeds from most parts of the UK. Leeds City Station is located in the centre of town, a short taxi or bus ride to NSCD. Plane Leeds Bradford International airport is approximately a 25 minute drive from NSCD, or a 30 minute bus journey from Leeds City Centre (bus number 757).

Flights operate within the UK, Europe and worldwide. For a full list of destinations and further details see www.leedsbradfordairport.co.uk.

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this prospectus. However, NSCD reserves the right to change the information including the addition, withdrawal or restructuring of programmes. This prospectus is issued on the condition that it does not form part of any contract between NSCD and any student.

We will communicate any changes through our website, so please check www.nscd.ac.uk before applying.

Credits Design: Lee Goater. Photography: Chris Nash, Justin Slee, Joe Armitage, Josh Hawkins, Brian Slater and Nicole Guarino.

Cover image "What took me to Northern was how homely it felt and how friendly the people are. My NSCD audition was the most exciting and the most challenging experience. I think that having moved away from home, my dance has matured- I’ve gained control over my body that I previously didn’t have or didn’t know I had. I am not afraid to try my hardest. It shows perseverance and a real drive to better myself."

Harvey Rose, Undergraduate

Northern School of Contemporary Dance 98 Chapeltown Road, Leeds LS7 4BH T 0113 219 3000 E info@nscd.ac.uk /northernschool @NorthernSchool