ABOUT US

Elite Training in Dance, Singing & Acting

Located just outside Bath in the heart of Somerset, BDC Bath Dance College is a leading independent performing arts institution dedicated to nurturing the next generation of dancers, vocalists, and actors.

We deliver professional-level performing arts training through our renowned BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts, a qualification recognised as the equivalent of three A Levels.

This intensive, vocational programme equips students with advanced performance skills, industry-recognised credentials, and invaluable professional networks — opening pathways to prestigious drama schools, leading dance academies, top universities, and careers on stage, screen, and beyond.

Where it all began

Founded by former professional dancer and Artistic Director George Hill, BDC Performing Arts College began with a single vision: to offer specialised, vocational performing arts training near Bath that nurtures both talent and artistic integrity.

Set in the historic Victoria Hall, Radstock, the college was born from George’s dedication to foster a small, close-knit training environment rich in creative ambition.

With five bright dance studios and a 100-seat studio theatre, our humble beginnings were rooted in the belief that world-class performance training should be accessible, rigorous, and deeply personal.

From day one, BDC has championed a highly focused model of training—combining professional-level instruction in dance, singing, and acting with the robust, recognised foundation of a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts.

These early foundations continue to shape our mission: to guide students toward professional careers, further education, and lifelong artistic

growth.

Our Journey

Cultivating Professional Pathways: Over the years, our graduates have earned places at prestigious UK drama schools, dance universities, and musical theatre colleges. Many alumni have gone on to shine on London stages, screen productions, and international tours.

Expanding Industry Connections: Our ties with the Shh Talent Agency have grown deeper, with agents attending student performances and offering representation to those ready for professional next steps.

Evolving Performance Opportunities: From our first student showcase in the studio theatre to regular performances at events like Bath Christmas Market, Sky Sports, and polished seasonal showcases, the breadth of performance opportunities has flourished.

Strengthening Student Support & Facilities: Our college has expanded its pastoral care and campus facilities—continuing to prioritise a nurturing environment, wellbeing, and inclusive access to quality performing arts education.

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DAILY CLASSES

Classical Ballet

BDC’s classical ballet classes are the foundation of our world-class dance training programme.

Ballet is at the heart of all dance genres, and our daily ballet classes—grouped by ability—develop strong technique, artistry, and transferable dance skills that enhance performance in jazz, musical theatre, contemporary, and commercial dance.

Our professional ballet training is led by Artistic Director George Hill, a Royal Ballet School alumnus with an extensive international career. Alongside him, our ballet faculty features highly experienced, industry-leading teachers dedicated to helping every dancer reach their full potential.

Whether you’re a beginner building a foundation or an advanced dancer refining your technique, BDC offers ballet training for all levels in a supportive, inspiring environment.

Jazz, Tap, Contemporary & Commercial Dance

Students receive over 15 hours of professional dance training each week in jazz, tap, contemporary, and commercial dance as part of BDC’s comprehensive musical theatre and dance programme.

Classes are grouped by ability to ensure steady technical progression across all genres: jazz dance classes develop precision, flexibility, and performance skills for stage and musical theatre; tap dance training refines rhythm, clarity of sound, and coordination; contemporary dance classes enhance creativity, floorwork, and improvisation; and commercial dance training builds style, stage presence, and camera-ready choreography for today’s entertainment industry.

Led by experienced industry professionals and enriched with guest workshops from leading choreographers, students gain exposure to diverse styles, professional audition techniques, and performance opportunities.

This well-rounded approach develops transferable dance skills essential for a successful career in musical theatre, professional dance, and commercial performance.

Drama, Musical Theatre & Singing

As part of BDC’s comprehensive musical theatre and dance programme, students receive dedicated classes in drama, musical theatre, and singing.

Drama classes focus on improvisation, character development, and text work, strengthening acting skills for both stage and screen.

Musical theatre training combines acting, singing, and movement to build dynamic, versatile performers, while acting through song masterclasses refine the ability to convey story and emotion through vocal performance.

Ensemble singing classes develop harmony, blend, and stage presence, while regular one-to-one singing lessons improve vocal technique, range, and stamina. Additional individual lessons are available for students who wish to progress further or prepare for auditions.

Led by industry professionals and supported by guest workshops with leading directors, vocal coaches, and performers, students gain the artistic versatility and professional insight essential for a successful career in musical theatre, acting, and singing.

EXAMINATIONS

Students have the opportunity to take Intermediate and Advanced level examinations in ballet, modern jazz, theatrecraft, and tap under the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA), one of the most respected awarding bodies in the performing arts industry.

These IDTA dance qualifications provide an additional benchmark of achievement and are highly regarded within professional dance and musical theatre training.

Preparing for these examinations enables students to refine their technique, develop performance confidence, and demonstrate their commitment to professional standards.

Success in these assessments can strengthen audition portfolios and open further opportunities within the dance, theatre, and performing arts industries.

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THE COURSE

BTEC Extended National Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance)

In addition to core training, students complete a Level 3 BTEC Extended National Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance). This is delivered in partnership with the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership.

This nationally recognised qualification is equivalent to three A-levels and provides the UCAS points required for entry into higher education.

With a small intake, students aged 16 and above will receive professional training, personalised feedback and individual coaching, ensuring continual progress and professional-level development.

While many graduates progress to degree programmes in acting, dance, or musical theatre, the qualification also supports entry into non-performance-related degrees, offering flexibility in future career pathways.

The BTEC in Performing Arts Dance offers a comprehensive, practical education that develops both technical expertise and creative skills.

Building on the foundation provided by our core dance and performance classes, students apply their expanding skillset across a range of practical-based modules designed to prepare them for professional environments. These include performance-focused projects such as creating and rehearsing for live productions, as well as exploring the theoretical and contextual aspects of the performing arts industry.

Through the course, students engage in disciplines such as devising theatre, interpreting scripts, and choreographing original dance pieces, refining their craft while gaining hands-on, real-world experience.

As part of our partnership with the Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership, all students aged 16 to 19 enrolled on the BTEC receive academic funding in the form of a BTEC bursary, deducted directly from tuition fees.

This collaboration not only provides valuable financial support but also connects students to a wider educational network, opening opportunities for joint projects, shared resources, and cross-institutional events—further enriching their professional and academic development.

Full-Time Professional Training

This five-day-a-week programme combines intensive practical dance and theatre training with an academic qualification, helping students build a strong foundation for further study or a professional career in performing arts.

Live Performance Opportunities

Students perform in two full productions each year, showcasing their skills to a live audience in the college’s 100-seat tiered studio theatre. Performances take place at the end of term, preparing students for the demands of the industry.

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COURSE ELEMENTS

Element One: Practical Foundation Training

Our Practical Foundation Training delivers a comprehensive programme of dance technique and musical theatre performance.

CORE DANCE TRAINING

Students take regular classes in:

- Ballet

- Contemporary Dance

- Jazz

- Tap

These are supported by sessions in:

- Commercial Dance

- Improvisation & Choreography

- Body Conditioning

- Drama & Acting

- Ensemble Singing

- Private Vocal Tuition

- Musical Theatre Integration Classes

- Industry Masterclasses with professional performers and choreographers

TAILORED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

Certain core classes are grouped by ability, ensuring all students are challenged at an appropriate level.

Our experienced and qualified teaching staff, all of whom have trained and worked professionally, guide each student towards their next steps in the performing arts industry.

Element Two: BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (Equivalent to 3 A Levels)

Alongside their foundation training, students complete a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts — worth 168 UCAS points, supporting progression to higher education or professional pathways.

ACADEMIC & PRACTICAL BALANCE

Students apply their practical training to a variety of projects, including:

- Performance Workshops (Choreography)

- Performing Arts in the Community

- Individual Performance Commissions

- Technique Examinations in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, and - Contemporary

Most assessments are performance-based, complemented by a small number of written assignments.

UCAS POINTS & PROGRESSION

The BTEC qualification provides the necessary UCAS points for students wishing to progress onto degree-level performing arts courses or dance conservatoires.

ACCREDITED PARTNERSHIP

This qualification is delivered in partnership with The Midsomer Norton Schools Partnership and The Sixth Form.

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FEES & FUNDING

Course Fees - 2025 Entry

Tuition Fee: £7,500 per year

Once you have accepted your place on the course, a non-refundable enrolment fee of £300 is required to secure your spot. The remaining tuition fees are due at the start of the academic year. Flexible monthly instalment plans may be available, depending on your funding arrangements.

Please note that there are minimal uniform requirements for the course.

Accommodation Options

For students living away from home, we offer accommodation with a trusted network of vetted host families.

Each family provides a safe, supportive, and welcoming home environment, carefully selected for their warmth, hospitality, and commitment to student wellbeing.

This option ensures that students can focus on their studies in a comfortable and caring setting, while parents have peace of mind knowing their child is living in a nurturing, family-oriented home.

BTEC Funding - Financial Support for Students

In partnership with Midsomer Norton Sixth Form, all students aged 16–19 enrolling on the BTEC Extended Diploma are eligible for academic funding, which will be automatically deducted from tuition fees.

This helps reduce overall course costs and ensures that high-quality training remains accessible to all learners.

TALENT SCHOLARSHIPS - REWARDING EXCEPTIONAL POTENTIAL

We believe that professional training should be accessible to all talented students.

Our Talent Scholarships offer additional financial support based on performance during the audition process. Scholarships are awarded to applicants who demonstrate outstanding talent, dedication, and potential in their chosen field.