The Academy of Northern Ballet is the only Centre for Advanced Training (or CAT as we like to call it) that specialises in classical ballet in the UK.
Based in the heart of Leeds, we want to make sure our students have a balanced life between academic life and dance training.
Previous alumni of Northern Ballet’s CAT Programme have gone on to train at Royal Ballet Upper School, English National Ballet, The School of the Hamburg Ballet and many more.
Read on to hear from students and parents about their experiences of training with us here on the CAT Programme.
"I love the hard-working atmosphere which has given me an insight into being a professional ballerina"
Level 3 student
"The training the CAT program offers has helped me become a much better dancer. It has also opened a lot of doors for me for the future"
Level 4-6 student
"I love the fact that the programme’s training takes place in the same building as Northern Ballet’s company it is so inspiring"
F4 Student
“Our daughter has been part of Northern Ballet as an Academy student and a CAT student and is in her final year. Throughout her fantastic journey she has not only been taught ballet at a professional level by incredible teachers, but life skills too like patience, how to be super organised, be a good listener, take instruction, work as a team and respect one another. Also the importance of dedication and determination too. The environment at Northern Ballet is inspiring too, being amongst the Company. It helps the students to believe in themselves and follow their dreams!”
CAT Parent
"Northern Ballet’s CAT programme is second to none! The extraordinary teaches and dedicated staff have nurtured our daughter to maximise her potential."
CAT Parent
“I am so grateful for the opportunity offered to my son by the Northern Ballet Centre of Advanced Training Program. It has enabled him to train in classical ballet in a nurturing and professional environment alongside his full time schooling. Under the exceptional tuition provided and nurturing pastoral care, his confidence has grown, not only with his dancing but in all aspects of his life. At Northern Ballet he is surrounded by inspiring role models and feels prepared to continue his training towards a career as a professional dancer.”
CAT Parent
"Parents of future young dancers can be assured that your child will receive the very highest quality training, learning, guidance, and support in world class facilities"
Former CAT Parent
Photo Emily Nuttall