Norton Hill School, whose exam results have regularly been in the top 5% nationally and OFSTED judged the school to be 'Good with Outstanding Features' in January, has established a partnership with Bath Dance College, (BDC) which will soon have facilities in the Victoria Hall, Radstock.
Preparations are going full steam ahead at BDC and Norton Hill School to welcome thirty of the most talented performing arts students from around the country this September.
In a new collaboration with Norton Hill School, BDC offers a unique course in which talented performers are able to train to a professional level and continue with their academic education. At BDC, students work with some of the country's most celebrated performing professionals, including local, George Hill, Karen Paisey ex-principal dancer at the Royal Ballet, Eleanor Duval, of the Mark Bruce Company, Nick Yeoman, of Tag Dogs, amongst others.
Offering an intensive two-year Performing Arts, Musical Theatre Course for students aged sixteen-plus, BDC aims to prepare students for work in the Performing Arts industry.
Brainchild of local man George Hill, BDC opened its doors last September as a specialist performing arts school, with a post-sixteen musical theatre, A level and Diploma Course.
George Hill trained at the Royal Ballet School, London before going on to dance with both the Dutch National Ballet and the Dresden Semperoper Ballet, Germany, as a soloist. Only able to train due to receiving a full scholarship, George was fully able to appreciate what a fantastic opportunity he had been given – without which he would never have been able to pursue his dreams.
On returning to England, George got together with other professionals and set about trying to create an affordable, yet professional course in which they could give students the same training and opportunities that they themselves were fortunate enough to receive, and so BDC was born.
It was also important to George and his team that all students are able to access A levels should they wish. The collaboration between Norton Hill School and BDC means students have access to a full academic curriculum, alongside their vocational training.
With over twenty hours of practical classes per week, students receive training to reach the top. They are taught by ex and current industry professionals, with teachers travelling from as far away as the USA.
George Hill said: "Coming from Radstock, I think that it is great that, finally, local talent will have the opportunity to train at a professional level in the South West. Previously, students have had to travel to London or the North in order to receive this level of training."
Course Director, Sue Hill, said "Norton Hill School is a breath of fresh air and thanks to their superb organisation and support, this amazing course is a reality. Continuing academic studies was of paramount importance for me, as the mother of a performer. I understand the importance of ensuring students have the opportunity to access a full academic curriculum, whilst building on their talent."