Central School of Ballet Charitable Trust Limited

Central School of Ballet Charitable Trust Limited is a UK-based nonprofit organisation and registered charity (charity number 285398) dedicated to professional dance training and education. Established on 11 August 1982, it operates as a private company limited by guarantee without share capital, specialising in first-degree level higher education and cultural education in the field of dance[3][4].

Overview

The organisation is headquartered at The Countess Of Wessex Studios in London, situated within the South Bank arts community in Southwark. Central School of Ballet is recognized as a world-leading centre for professional dance training, offering vocational degree courses in dance validated by the University of Kent. Its educational programmes encompass undergraduate and postgraduate levels, aimed at preparing students for careers in dance[2][3].

Activities and Programmes

Central provides a broad spectrum of dance education, including:

• Vocational dance degrees for aspiring professional dancers
• A Junior School offering ballet classes for children during term time
• An Associate Programme designed for young people targeting professional dance careers
• Adult dance classes designed to enhance general fitness and wellbeing

The institution is notable for offering extensive touring and performance experience to its students, setting it apart as the only professional dance training school in the UK with such a large-scale touring programme. This practical experience enhances employability by equipping students with versatile and industry-specific skills transferable to dance companies and international theatrical productions[1][2].

Governance and Staffing

As a registered charity, the organisation is governed by a board of trustees and employs a team of approximately 79 staff members. The leadership includes an Executive Director and an Artistic Director, with the current heads being Mark Osterfield and Kate Coyne respectively[2][4].

Financial Information

Recent financial records indicate that the charity has an annual income exceeding £3 million, with expenditures slightly higher, reflecting ongoing investments in its educational and artistic activities. The organisation employs several high-level staff members, including employees earning salaries in excess of £60,000 annually, underscoring its professional stature within the arts education sector[4].

Importance and Impact

Central School of Ballet Charitable Trust Limited plays a significant role in the UK's dance education landscape by fostering talent through rigorous academic and performance training. Its position within London's vibrant South Bank arts scene enhances its collaboration with the broader dance industry and contributes substantially to cultural education and the professional preparation of dancers nationally and internationally[2].

This article reflects information current as of 2025 and is based on official charity and corporate filings and the organisation's published materials.

[1] https://www.centralschoolofballet.co.uk [2] https://www.centralschoolofballet.co.uk/about-us/ [3] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/01657717 [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/285398 [5] https://www.discoveruni.gov.uk/institution-details/10001264/