Parents contact us for different reasons but mostly because their child demonstrates an ability or interest in dance, singing or acting. Do they have talent or is it just the start of an extravert personality? How do you find out?

The first step is to find the right classes. There are many good part time schools however, The Italia Conti Associate School is the only local school to be attached to a recognised full time performing arts training establishment. Therefore there is a committed route for progression.

Children as young as three years often try to dance to music or sing in front of the TV, other children can be very shy and nervous. Children are individuals and will develop at their own pace. The outgoing 3 year old adapts well to classes early on and the shy ones take a little longer. That is why we suggest that children ‘try’ classes first. It is a big step for little ones to leave the comforting arms of their parents for the first time - especially in a strange place! It may take a couple of ‘trial’ sessions.

There are also children who are constantly dancing and singing. It can of course be because of the influence of reality TV ‘talent shows’ or the start of a natural inclination for performance. Our classes are based on the Academy’s curriculum for the development of all round performance skills. Musical Production teaches young people to understand musical theatre i.e. song and actor’s movement. It centres on performance which is a confidence booster. Jazz dance involves various styles of dance from classical to hip-hop and we also include Latin as part of the dance workshop programme. Singing, although a stand alone subject is also a crucial part of musical theatre, classes involve solo work, choral & vocal development. Ballet, tap & modern dance is essential if the pupil wishes to take this step towards a long term career. These syllabus subjects give children the terminology and dance technique which will be vital if they are to make progress in dance. Acting classes break down many inhibitions pupils start with ‘improvisation’ and gain greater confidence as they learn phonetics, & script reading.

In 1995 the Italia Conti Academy opened the ITALIA CONTI ASSOCIATE SCHOOLS. An arts outreach programme bringing professional training to local children from all social backgrounds. This is when we, at Italia Conti, look for potential. Do they have the facility (physique) for dance? Is their voice a natural gift? Will they respond to acting direction? How will the training help them develop as professional entertainers? Most importantly, will they be able to earn a living in an arts related industry?

It has been a huge success and many gifted children have benefitted from our part time training programme. Some of whom have gone on to train full time at the Academy in London, after successfully auditioning for the ITALIA CONTI ASSOCIATE SCHOOL ‘SCHOLARSHIP’. A unique fees award only available to Associate school pupils.

We are always prepared to offer guidance to parents regarding their child’s future.