Student life at the Northern School Of Contemporary Dance is characterized by an intensive, creative, and supportive environment within a close-knit community of passionate dancers.
Immersive Training: Expect a demanding schedule with significant contact hours, including technique classes (influenced by Cunningham and Graham, release-based techniques, and more), creative workshops, choreography, and performance projects.
Strong Community: The focused nature of the program and the shared passion for dance foster a strong sense of community among students and faculty.
Performance Opportunities: Students have numerous opportunities to perform, both formally and informally, in the school's own Riley Theatre and potentially in other venues, gaining valuable performance experience.
Creative Exploration: NSCD encourages experimentation and the development of individual choreographic voices through initiatives like the Choreographic Lab and collaborations with professional choreographers.
Industry Engagement: The school actively encourages students to engage with the professional dance industry through workshops with visiting artists, opportunities to participate in external projects, and potential collaborations with dance companies.
Student Support: NSCD provides comprehensive student support services, including personal tutorials, learner support for those with dyslexia or dyspraxia, English language support, injury support (with in-house rehabilitation and collaborations with local practitioners), and health and wellbeing support (including counselling).
Accommodation in Leeds: NSCD doesn't offer on-site accommodation but facilitates a House Hunting Day and provides support and useful contacts to help students find suitable housing in Leeds, often in shared houses. They work with Unipol, a student housing charity, to recommend accredited housing.
Life in Leeds: Students benefit from living in Leeds, a city with a thriving arts scene, excellent theaters, public art collections, and a vibrant student population.
Extracurricular Activities: While the primary focus is dance, students often form informal groups and engage in social activities within the school and the wider Leeds community. NSCD also has a Student Services department that acts as a central point of contact for various student needs.
International Experience: The diverse student body offers a rich intercultural experience, and the school has historically engaged in exchange programs and international collaborations.