ESC Dancers Selected for Prestigious UK Young Dancer Programme

Two talented Dance students from East Sussex College have been selected to take part in the national UK Young Dancer programme - an initiative created by Dame Arlene Phillips and Leanne Benjamin OBE to uncover and support the next generation of exceptional young dance talent.

Elisa Fletcher, a first-year student, and Gaia Fitzpatrick, who is in her second year, were both chosen from hundreds of hopefuls across the country after submitting video auditions. They now move on to take part in regional workshops, working with top industry professionals.

Open to dancers aged 14 to 19, UK Young Dancer celebrates individuality, creativity, and potential across both classical and theatre dance. The programme begins with an online audition, from which 100 dancers are selected for regional workshops - a major achievement in itself.

Gaia, who is currently in Spain representing Team England at the Dance World Cup, reflected on her journey at the College:

“Jason, my tutor, is a truly kind and caring soul and The support I have has been amazing. I feel truly looked after. This course has allowed me to come out of my shell and I have learned so many crucial skills and I couldn’t recommend this course enough to anyone interested in dance and performing arts. I have enjoyed studying Dance at ESC. I have made so many new friends that will last a lifetime and I have learnt so many crucial Dance skills needed in the industry.”

From the regional workshops, a small number of dancers will be chosen for one-to-one coaching with professional mentors, with just 20 in each category going through to the Grand Final — held at the prestigious Royal Opera House in London.

Both Elisa and Gaia’s success highlights the exceptional level of talent nurtured within the Dance department at East Sussex College, and the exciting progression routes available to students who dream of performing professionally.

Congratulations to both dancers on this incredible achievement - we can’t wait to see where your journeys take you next!