Which are our top British boarding schools for dance?
As with so many of these blogs focussing on one aspect of life in UK schools, we only have space to share a few examples, but here are some of our top British boarding schools for dance that didn’t feature in our previous blog on the subject.
Aldenham School
At Aldenham, dance is not just an art form, it’s an exciting, energetic journey where creativity, teamwork, and self-expression come to life. While dance is taken seriously, it’s also kept fun, and students of all ages are encouraged to showcase their talent in a spectacular annual dance show. This is an event that everyone looks forward to and remembers for years to come and dance is also a key feature in the whole-school productions, adding energy and flair to every performance. Through dance, students not only express their unique identities but also learn the power of collaboration. Each individual’s contribution enhances the performance as a whole, boosting confidence, teamwork, and creativity. The enthusiasm and joy felt by both participants and the audience are contagious, creating an unforgettable experience for all involved. For those passionate about dance, there is the opportunity to study it at GCSE and A Level, and it’s a choice that’s in high demand!
Dauntsey’s School
There are many opportunities to enjoy dance at Dauntsey’s with classes open to all –boys and girls, experienced dancers and those who are new to the discipline. It is taught as part of the Drama Curriculum to all First and Second Form pupils, whether they have a history of dance classes or are complete novices. It is then available right up to A Level, which is a dynamic qualification that encourages students to develop their creative and intellectual capacity, alongside transferable skills such as teamworking, communication and problem solving. Through dance, pupils’ self-confidence blossoms, shy pupils become outgoing, nervous pupils become bolder, partly down to the supportive, collaborative atmosphere in classes and clubs, where everyone is so positive and helpful. Pupils have a strong voice in choosing the styles they want to pursue, be that musical theatre, street dance, jazz, ballet, contemporary or tap. The shows are a big attraction, with a musical every winter and an annual dance show each spring. It’s certainly not the preserve of girls here either; a 15-strong, all-boy dance group, GNI (Girls Not Invited), performs at the shows and works towards taking part in competitions.
Lord Wandsworth College
At Lord Wandsworth College, dance is celebrated as a powerful expression of creativity, wellbeing and community. Recognised for its physical and mental health benefits, every student can find their own path to move, create, and thrive in weekly classes covering styles including ballet, tap, modern, jazz, street dance, acro and contemporary. The annual dance show then provides the opportunity to perform pieces taught in class to family, friends and the LWC community. Students can work towards dance exams and/or have dance as one of their chosen sports in PE GCSE. Dance scholars benefit from personalised guidance and frequent opportunities to perform, including a showcase evening featuring student-choreographed pieces, celebrating individuality and talent. Another highly anticipated event is the annual Inter-House Dance Competition in which students come together in a highly entertaining evening where creativity, collaboration and school community shines through. Dance at LWC extends beyond the studio, with dancers performing in the whole-school production at a professional theatre, featuring in GCSE photography and art projects, and even inspiring students when designing in textiles. Dance connects disciplines, builds confidence, and nurtures wellbeing, placing creativity at the heart of school life.
New Hall School
Performing Arts at New Hall are defined by inclusivity, professional excellence and a responsiveness to the students, nurturing their talent and empowering them to shape their own creative journeys. The high-calibre dance school has studios, a fitness suite, and indoor and outdoor performance spaces, including a dedicated theatre, embedded within an academic environment. With over 250 students participating in the co-curricular programme, dance here is both inclusive and aspirational. From ballet, tap and lyrical, to jazz, hip hop and contemporary, students perform regularly at school events, including charity competitions such as New Hall Come Dancing. At the elite level, dancers compete nationally and internationally, including as part of Team England at the Dance World Cup, where they are ranked among the top 10 globally. This year alone, New Hall dancers were awarded ‘Most Outstanding Dance School’ four times, an extraordinary recognition of their commitment and quality. Beyond the stage, sustained engagement in music, drama and dance helps students to gain creativity, resilience, empathy and collaborative strength, cultivating artistic excellence alongside the ability to lead, communicate and connect. While many alumni go on to study at leading conservatoires and university arts programmes, all leave with the confidence to express themselves and equipped with the skills to inspire others.
If your child would benefit from expressing their creativity in this way, let us help you find their way into one of our top British boarding schools for dance. Contact Gina to start the journey.
