“The National Dance CATs are an essential part of the UK’s creative infrastructure, offering a vital route for young people from all backgrounds to excel in dance. It is good news that the government recognises that this programme deserves its funding, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with colleagues across England to secure the future of the scheme.” Dr Naomi Lefebvre Sell, Associate Director, Dance at Trinity Laban, CAT provider.
“This is an encouraging step in the government’s commitment to safeguarding the pathways to careers in dance, and a positive signal of the recognition of dance’s contribution to our thriving and growing dance sector.” Clare Connor, CEO The Place and London Contemporary Dance School, CAT provider.
We are pleased the Department for Education has confirmed 2025/26 funding for the National Centres for Training in Dance (Dance CATs), which are based in 10 venues in England, including Trinity Laban.
We will continue working with our partners and the wider dance community to secure the future of the programme, to ensure dance training remains accessible to talented young people of all backgrounds.
Without the Dance CATs, we risk “a world with no more Billy – or Betty – Elliots.” Sir Matthew Bourne OBE, Trinity Laban alum.