Advanced Programme (14y+ • Selection Only)
Nurturing advanced dancers with challenge, support and opportunity.
At SGDA, our Advanced Programme provides committed dancers with the depth, challenge and focus needed at this stage of their training. Classes become more intensive, with a strong emphasis on technical refinement, stamina, performance quality and developing individual artistry across multiple styles.
Dancers in the Advanced Programme are encouraged to train regularly, take ownership of their progress, and work towards examinations, performances and specialist opportunities. This level also supports those considering associate programmes, vocational training or further study in the performing arts.
Classes Available
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Our Advanced Jazz class focuses on technical precision, strength, musicality and performance quality. Dancers work on complex combinations, advanced turns, leaps and stylistic versatility, developing the power, control and artistry expected at this level.
Additional Advanced-level classes will be introduced as the programme continues to grow, ensuring dancers receive a clear and supportive pathway as their training progresses.
“As a guest teacher at SGDA, I can confidently say it is one of the most professional dance schools in Cheshire.
Sophie is a true expert, highly respected by her students, who are always disciplined, engaged and a joy to teach.
The variety of styles offered is fantastic, and it’s an honour to work alongside such an organised and professional team. I couldn’t recommend SGDA enough.”
— Samantha Boden
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The Advanced Programme is designed for dancers who are ready for a higher level of technical demand, maturity and commitment. To keep dancers safe and ensure they feel confident at this level, placement is by teacher recommendation. This allows us to place each dancer where they can progress positively and without pressure.
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As dancers reach their mid–teens, having a clear goal to work towards becomes incredibly important. Without a sense of progression or challenge, young adults can sometimes settle and not reach their full potential.
The Advanced Programme gives them something aspirational to aim for — a level that feels earned, purposeful and motivational — while still being nurturing and supportive.
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We look at each dancer’s technique, focus, consistency, strength, work ethic and readiness, as well as their commitment to regular training. There is no single requirement — every dancer is considered individually.
Our aim is always to help dancers develop the skills and mindset needed to progress when the time is right.
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The Advanced Programme is a new and growing pathway. We are starting with a focused Jazz class to build strong foundations and ensure high-quality, age-appropriate training.
More Advanced classes — such as Ballet, Lyrical, Commercial and Tap — will be added as the programme expands and as the dancers’ needs develop.
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Absolutely. Dancers who show consistent progress, commitment, maturity and readiness in the Bridge Programme may be invited to move into Advanced.
We monitor every dancer carefully and will always communicate openly about steps forward.
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That’s completely fine. Many dancers spend time in the Bridge Programme before progressing further. Every young person develops at a different pace, and we ensure they are placed where they feel confident, supported and able to thrive.
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The Advanced Programme represents the highest level of training at SGDA. After this stage, dancers continue to deepen their technique, confidence and artistry while exploring pathways that suit their individual goals. For some, this may include associate programmes, sixth-form or college courses in dance, or vocational auditions. For others, it simply means enjoying high-level training, performance opportunities and continuing dance as a lifelong passion.
Our role is to support each dancer — whether they choose a professional route or prefer to stay within a nurturing, non-competitive training environment — and to help them finish their SGDA journey feeling skilled, confident and proud of their achievements.