The partnership between the Alkins School of Ballet, with its international reputation for excellence, and the School of S. Mary & S. Anne, one of the UK's leading independent schools, provides an exceptional environment for both Vocational and Academic study.

The time devoted to dance classes often means that many dancers, though bright and intelligent, can fall behind with academic studies. Today, more than ever, it is imperative for students to maintain their academic studies throughout their vocational training. After all, even the most successful have a relatively short career and are then faced with the question of what comes next.

However our Vocational Dance Course has been carefully planned to allow a healthy balance and to give as broad an education as possible; high standards are maintained through carefully structured timetables and enviably small class sizes. The course has been constructed around Classical Ballet, Jazz, Modern Dance, Performance Skills, Drama, Repertoire and core academic subjects.

The highly qualified and experienced staff include former international ballerinas and a Director of Dance with many years experience as an examiner with the Royal Academy of Dance. This, combined with our commitment to excellence, enables our students to achieve their full potential and reach exceptional standards. Past students are now dancing in some of the world's leading ballet companies. Others are able to use their dance skills, along with their academic qualifications, in a variety of careers including physiotherapy specializing in dancers, teaching, costume design etc.

The school, which has both Day and Boarding facilities, is situated in the Midlands of England, approximately 30 miles from the City of Birmingham and within easy reach of mainline railway stations and international airports.

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