Modern Ballet – Mid Level Summer School

This five-day in-person summer school is for young people aged approx. 12-14 (secondary 1 – 2) who are interested in developing skills in classical ballet technique, repertoire and contemporary dance.

The course runs twice during our summer programme. Students are able to attend one or both weeks – attending both will be particularly beneficial to those working towards vocational training. The course will take place between 10am-3pm daily

Book for 4-8 July 2022 (£265)
Book for 11-15 July 2022 (£265)
Book for both weeks (£500)

The course is taught by staff who work on the RCS BA Modern Ballet programme, with additional expert guest teachers. Students will benefit from having the opportunity to creatively engage with the different styles taught by these specialists in the field of ballet and contemporary dance.

The course is practical, rigorous and aims to prepare young dancers working towards vocational dance training. Students will have daily classical technique classes with pointework for girls and virtuosity for boys. Additionally, students will participate in classes in a range of supporting subjects, including contemporary dance, classical repertoire, creative, choreography and conditioning. Classes will be accompanied by pianists/percussionists.

By the end of the courses students should have:

• strengthened their classical ballet technique
• experienced a professional approach to practice
• participated in repertoire, creative, conditioning and contemporary sessions

The summer school aims to create an inspiring, challenging and supporting environment for young dancers to develop their skills and talents.

The course will take place in our beautiful dance spaces at the Wallace Studios at Speirs Locks.

Please note, students should be working at approximately Intermediate Foundation/ Intermediate level in ballet to benefit fully from the course.

On the first day teaching staff will observe students as they participate in classes and stream them into groups appropriate to their level. The purpose of this is to ensure everyone gets the most out of the course and is taking part in activities suitable for their experience.

If you have any questions in advance of booking, please contact us at summerschools@rcs.ac.uk

Course Leader

Kerry Livingstone

We are pleased to welcome students from across the world to our Summer Schools. Our course fees do not include accommodation or food, and these should be organised by the student. Our campus is located in Glasgow city centre, and you can find the addresses below. There are plenty hotel, hostels, and bnb options available. We are located close to transport links should you wish to stay outside the city centre. If you are travelling to Glasgow for a course, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers course fees, travel, accommodation, and cancellations due to COVID-19  – as RCS will not refund in this circumstance. You can view the Cancellations and Refund policy for full information.

For students under 18 years old, we strongly advise travelling with a responsible adult should any emergency situations arise during class. Students are only monitored by staff during class times.

Renfrew Street Campus: 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, G2 3DB
Wallace Studios Campus: 210 Garscube Road, Glasgow, G4 9RR

Although students do not need to have any formal dance qualifications, previous dance experience is essential and students should be working at approximately Intermediate Foundation/ Intermediate level in ballet to benefit fully from the course.

For this course, students should be approximately aged 12 – 14, and have been in Secondary 1 or above in the year 2021-22.

No advance preparation is required for this course.

Students should wear ballet practice clothes (leotard, ballet tights) for classical classes and footless tights for other classes. Soft pointe/ canvas shoes should be worn for class and girls should bring pointe shoes.

You should also bring water, a packed lunch and healthy snacks as this course will be very physical.

Promotional Offers

We offer a selection of promotional offers for our Short Courses, take a look!

To receive the promotional offer code, contact shortcourses@rcs.ac.uk before booking a course.

“A fun and intensive week of top quality dance training from the best teachers Scotland has to offer.” (2019 participant)

“A fantastic opportunity for keen young dancers to really focus on their technique and skills, and to learn wonderful repertoire. A genuine insight into what the future could hold for them, if they are lucky enough to progress to a full time vocational course in dance.” (2019 participant)

“The course was enjoyable, challenging, tiring however loads of fun and resulted in improved technique, confidence and a fantastic overall experience.” (2019 participant)

“An excellent opportunity to improve dance skills and meet new people. Quality of teaching staff and musicians was fantastic.” (2019 participant)

“A challenging but supportive week of fast-paced technical learning with beautiful live music. Inspiring teachers and helpful constructive feedback. Also a chance to meet other people from around the world.” (2019 participant)

Agnes Allan Bursary

Agnes Allan was a teacher, passionate about inclusion, and this bursary scheme exists to offer support to students to participate in the performing or production arts.

The Agnes Allan Bursary provides some support to students who may require financial assistance to take part in a short course in dance, drama, music, production or screen.

Anyone who wishes to take part in our Short Courses and faces a financial barrier can apply for bursary support to help meet the cost of tuition fees.

More information about the Agnes Allan Bursary.