Stop Paying £20k+ for Dance College: Find Your Fully Funded Post-16 Option

For a lot of young people who love dance, the next step after school feels like a big leap. The dream is usually some big-name dance college, with bright lights and long hours in the studio. But the prices can be a real surprise. Many places charge more than £20,000 a year, and that is not including travel, housing, or extras along the way.

What many families do not know is that there are fully funded options. If you are 16 to 18 and looking for serious daily training, you do not have to pay huge college fees to make it happen. Right here in the city, there are 16–18 dance courses in London that give you proper weekday classes, personal support, and performance experience, all without stretching your family’s finances.

What Is a Fully Funded Post-16 Dance Programme?

Once GCSEs are done, many students are not sure what comes next, especially if they want to spend more time dancing. That is where fully funded programmes can make a big difference. These are regular weekday courses, often Monday to Friday, built for 16–18-year-olds ready to take their dancing seriously.

Most of the time, these programmes are backed by government funding, which means families do not have to cover the full cost of tuition. That makes it easier to focus on dancing every day without the stress of paying thousands each term.

Here is what students usually get:

• Regular studio time Monday through Friday

• Training in styles like ballet, tap, jazz, or contemporary

• Support with fitness, theory, and practical dance skills

• A learning environment that supports both personal and technical growth

This setup allows for steady progress without dance being pushed aside to make room for unrelated coursework. It is designed so students learn not just about dance technique, but how to prepare and care for their bodies, manage time, and work with others. At our purpose-built studio in Hackney Wick, students benefit from spacious facilities and a professional environment to support their development.

Who Can Apply and What to Expect

Many people still think these kinds of courses are only for those planning to go professional, but that is not true. These programmes are open to anyone in the right age group who is committed and ready to invest their time and energy in dance. You do not need years of advanced training or perfect flexibility to start. What matters more is enthusiasm and a willingness to show up and learn every day.

Expect to be part of a group of students who all take dance seriously, even if they have different long-term plans. The atmosphere is usually supportive, not competitive. Classes move at a pace that helps everyone improve, whether you are just stepping up your game or have been dancing for years. There is also guidance built in; teachers help you set goals, review progress, or work through challenges.

Students often gain experience by performing at showcases or informal events, which helps with confidence. It is about building habits that can carry into life after school, whether that means continuing dance or using the discipline and focus in a different area.

Why You Do Not Need to Move Across the Country

One of the biggest surprises for families is that you do not need to leave London to get proper, full-time dance training. You do not need to travel to other cities or budget for new housing just to follow your goals.

If you live near Hackney Wick, Stratford, Bow, or Homerton, you already have good access to dance programmes that run all week. That is a big cost saving when you skip out on train fares or paying rent in another town.

Staying close to home also has emotional benefits. You are able to see friends, help with family routines, or simply keep some normal “life stuff” in the mix. Transitioning to weekday dancing is already a shift; being in a local, familiar setting can make that change feel more manageable.

Transport links in this part of East London are strong and safe, too. That makes it easier to stick to regular routines, turn up on time, and get home after classes without long waits or expensive rides.

Choosing a Dance Path That Works for You

If you are starting to take your dancing more seriously, now is the time to think about what kind of training suits you best. Everyone is different. Maybe you are into classical ballet, maybe you move better in jazz or commercial, or maybe you like trying a bit of everything.

While looking at fully funded options, ask a few basic questions:

1. Do they offer styles you enjoy?

2. Are classes held five days a week?

3. Does the place feel warm, welcoming, and built around students?

If possible, try to visit. Many places hold open days or taster sessions so you can meet the teachers, see the studio, and picture what it might be like to train there full-time. You will learn a lot from just walking into the building and seeing how it feels.

At Adore Dance, you can access classes in ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, commercial, and dance fitness, all taught by experienced tutors in a modern East London studio. Different types of classes mean you are introduced to a wide variety of techniques, giving you a well-rounded foundation. Whether you prefer focusing on one discipline or sampling a mix, there is something for every interest and skill level.

Learning in this way can broaden your understanding of movement, bringing new inspiration and helping you discover unexpected strengths. Exposure to multiple styles and a supportive environment will give you the skills to adapt and challenge yourself. Whether you are aiming to pursue further study, want to join a performance group, or just want to build discipline and creativity, these programmes create space for growth.

Ready to Train Every Day? Make Your Choice Local

You do not have to pick between chasing your dream and staying financially stable. It does not need to be one or the other. Even if you have always imagined studying at a big college, it is worth knowing that there are funded weekday options right here in London.

With studio training, supportive teaching, and a full weekday schedule, these programmes let you train properly without the high price tag or extra stress. If you are ready to go from occasional dance classes to regular, structured sessions, this kind of programme can be a great next step. Training every day leads to steady improvement in both confidence and technical ability.

Are you ready to take the next step in your dance journey with a programme that truly supports your growth? At Adore Dance, our 16-18 dance courses in London provide a welcoming environment, expert instruction, and the daily structure you need to thrive. Join a passionate community where your dedication meets genuine opportunity, and let your talent shine without financial barriers. Start building your future in dance today with practical experience and personalised support.