Scholars Programme secondary schools UK: New Ballet Training Pathways

Scholars Programme secondary schools UK: New Ballet Training PathwaysScholars Programme secondary schools UK
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Innovative Developments in Ballet Training: Introducing the Scholars Programme for Secondary Schools in the UK

In a significant shift from traditional ballet training, The Royal Ballet School has announced exciting changes for young dancers in secondary schools in the UK. With the introduction of the Scholars Programme for secondary schools UK, the emphasis is on fostering talent through enriched pathways, rather than immediate full-time involvement. From September 2026, young hopefuls in Year 7 will have a new array of training options, further solidifying our commitment to balanced, nurturing educational environments. This step reflects a holistic approach, putting the well-being and development of our young dancers at the forefront.

Year 7 and 8 Ballet Training Evolution

Exciting Changes for Young Ballet Enthusiasts

  • Starting September 2026, Year 7 students (those aged 11-12) will have access to our newly launched UK Scholars programme alongside national Associate centres, shifting away from the full-time boarding model.
  • By 2027, these adaptations will extend to Year 8 students, marking a shift to gradual, developmentally appropriate training pathways.

Advancing Training with a Holistic Focus

  • This initiative aims to integrate dance, sport science, healthcare, and education, creating a supportive framework conducive to students’ overall growth.

Why We Believe in This Innovation

Tailored Training for a Brighter Future

  • Our decision, rooted in comprehensive research since 2024, reflects modern sentiment against early specialisation.
  • Conclusions suggest young dancers thrive better when they enter full-time training slightly later, leading to successful, enduring careers. The Scholars Programme secondary schools UK accentuates this tailored approach.

Considerate Boarding Adaptations

  • Recognizing the emotional impact of boarding, our new strategy addresses these challenges by allowing students to mature closer to home.

Healthcare and Student Well-being

Strengthening Mental Resilience through Training

  • Incorporating mental health specialists, these changes embrace a holistic strategy that balances rigorous training with psychological support.
  • Our flexible model supports student well-being, aiming to cultivate not just technically skilled dancers, but emotionally resilient individuals.

Expanding Opportunities for Aspiring Dancers

Increased Flexibility Through Innovative Pathways

  • The Scholars Programme secondary schools UK will offer bespoke development plans, residential camps, and mentoring, opening doors to varied performance experiences.

Continued Success through Associate Pathways

  • Central to this model is our expanded Associate pathway, which currently sees 90% of Year 7 entrants progressing successfully. We are fully committed to maintaining this standard of excellence.

Next Steps in Our Training Journey

Strategically Planning for Tomorrow’s Dancers

  • This change is not about reducing opportunities but enhancing the developmental journey of each student. We intend to redistribute places to offer the same number of full-time slots, emphasizing strategic advancement as students mature.
  • Decisions about defining full-time entry points at Year 9 or 10 will be made with utmost care, ensuring each student’s needs are diligently prioritized.

Join the Conversation: Online Q&A Sessions

Direct Interaction for a Smooth Transition

  • To provide clarity and answer your questions, online Q&A sessions have been scheduled for August 27 and 28, 2025. Join Artistic Director Iain Mackay and the team in an open forum.

Explore these forward-thinking developments and join hands with us as we strive to polish the stars of tomorrow. We invite you to reach out for more information on how the Scholars Programme secondary schools UK enriches the world of ballet with care and excellence.

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