STUDENTS will be invited to put their best feet forward as a new dance academy launches in the city.

A new sixth form course is being launched for dancers across Sussex in partnership with South East Dance and the Brighton (BACA) and Portslade Aldridge Community Academies (PACA).

The Aldridge South East Dance Academy will be a collaboration between education and the dance industry, giving students the opportunity to study for a BTEC extended diploma in performing arts – Dance, the equivalent of three A-levels.

It will be officially launched by academy founder Sir Rod Aldridge next week, and the first group of students will be welcomed through the door in September.

Sir Rod Aldridge said: “I am very excited that through this partnership with South East Dance BACA and PACA will be able to offer career opportunities to young dancers that will be unique in state education in Sussex.

"Both academies have already developed a model for sixth form students to study academic qualifications alongside professional skills and fitness coaching that has proved highly successful with the Aldridge Cricket Academy - a partnership with Sussex County Cricket Club.

"South East Dance’s backing for our dance academy will ensure these students get similar access to the best coaching, facilities and performance opportunities.”

Designed for students who are keen to explore careers in the performing arts, South East Dance has worked closely with the Aldridge Academies to develop a dance curriculum which is truly unique, and which will be delivered by dance experts and specialists in their field.

The Brighton Curriculum - as will be taught - has been designed and commissioned to allow for dance to be developed and showcased in venues, attractions and locations across the city.

Joining Sir Rod Aldridge on the night of the launch at the Brighton Dome Studio Theatre on February 29 will be Cath James, programme director at South East Dance.

The sixth formers will be able to choose from a range of disciplines to study, including contemporary, jazz, ballet, tap, musical theatre, urban and street dance, learning from and having access to a network of dance and performing arts industry experts. There will be opportunities to perform in Brighton and beyond, through the academy’s network of industry partners.

Students and parents, dance teachers and performers interested in hearing more and meeting the team behind the academy can join the launch event from 6pm to 8pm by registering at https://aldridgedanceacademy.eventbrite.co.uk