About the dancers

Young people must be referred to the programme, this is usually by a Social Worker, Support worker or Teacher.

Whilst at the Academy all young people complete an Open College Network qualification in Dance and Practical Performance Skills. The qualification is made up of ten separate units which directly link to rehearsals in the studio and the two performances. We also deliver a Healthy Living unit which covers personal fitness, healthy eating, and sexual health.

The qualification is an opportunity for young people to achieve and to leave the Academy with a portfolio of work and a nationally recognised qualification to add to their CV.

So far around 85% of the young people who have Graduated from the Academy have returned to School, college or have found employment.

About the Academy

The Academy is a full time programme lasting 12 weeks, each day begins at 10am and finishes at 3.45pm except for Wednesdays when we finish at 2pm. Breakfast is served until 10.20am and lunchtime is 1.30 – 2.15. A hot lunch is provided everyday except Wednesdays and any individual dietary requirements are discussed during referral.

We provide travel warrants for young people attending the Academy and bus passes should they need them. We make sure each young person is happy and safe with their journey to the Academy each day so we will spend time with them and their referrer before the project starts to ensure they are.

Each cohort performs twice, once after 3 weeks and again after 12 weeks. The final performance is called the Graduation performance and happens at the Theatre Royal Winchester.

Our performance company Wessex Boys : Wessex Girls also perform at the 3 week performance and the Graduation performance.

On occasions we are invited to dance at special events, these have included dancing at the School Proms at the Royal Albert Hall and at Car Fest.