Dear Dance Community,
We hope this message finds you in good health. We want to take a moment to address a recent programme that aired on Monday, September 11th, titled ‘The Dark Side of Ballet Schools’ on BBC’s Panorama. While this programme has generated discussions and raised concerns within the dance community, we want to assure all our stakeholders that the well-being of our students remains our top priority.
At the Centre for Advanced Training (CAT), we have always been deeply committed to the mental and physical health of our young dancers. Over the years, we have implemented various initiatives to provide holistic support to our students as they pursue their dreams in the world of dance.
Last year, we took a significant step by introducing a dedicated role for Student Welfare. This role was created to offer specialized support to our students. Vicki Plomer, our mental health specialist, has been an integral part of this support system. She is present during our weekend training sessions, providing weekly one-to-one support for students who may need additional assistance with their mental health. We believe that nurturing both the physical and emotional well-being of our students is essential for their growth as dancers and individuals.
We understand that the content of the recent documentary may have evoked strong emotions or concerns among some of our students. It is crucial for us to maintain open lines of communication with our dance community. We encourage any student who feels affected by the programme to reach out to us. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to listen, support, and guide you through any challenges you may face.
As we embark on a new year, we will continue our commitment to promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle for our dancers. Our Healthier Dancer Programme will once again cover important topics such as nutrition, injury prevention, and managing the unique pressures that young dancers often experience. Additionally, our Individual Training Plan (ITP) meetings during Term 1 and 2 provide a platform for students and parents to address any concerns or challenges they may encounter during their dance journey, directly with us in a one-to-one setting.
We believe that an open and honest dialogue is essential for the growth and development of our students. If you have any questions or concerns, whether related to recent events or any other aspect of our programme, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your feedback is invaluable, and we are here to support you on your dance journey.
Thank you for being part of our dance community, and together, we will continue to nurture the passion and talent of our young dancers.
Warm regards,
The CAT Team
