CATs Funding

[atacrossroads]

Hi,

 

Does anyone know which dance schools are CATs (Centre for Advanced Training) registered?

 

Would this funding apply to schools such as Tring and Elmhurst, or is it just MDS?

 

Many thanks

[atacrossroads]

Hi,

 

A friend of mine has asked me about CATs (Center for Advanced Training) funding. Does it cover schools such as Tring for children as young as 11? If so, can you apply for an MDS and also CATs?

 

I can't find any information with a list of accredited schools.

 

Many thanks

[Picturesinthefirelight]

I think she's getting a bit confused.

 

The MDS award is a means tested award that covers fees at one of the four full time vocational dance schools or one of the Centres for Advanced Training (CAT)

 

Each individual school/CAT auditions potential students & they offer the award. It's not a case of you get the award & choose where to go, they are not transferable between schools.

Edited October 9, 2014 by Picturesinthefirelight

[atacrossroads]

Hi Picturesinthefirelight,

 

I must say that after reading the .gov website, I'm confused too. I understand how MDS works and which 4 schools it covers, but how does CATs work? Is it a separate funding option if her child is auditioning for Tring next year?

[Picturesinthefirelight]

Here is a list of CATS

[Picturesinthefirelight]

http://www.nationaldancecats.co.uk/contact

[Picturesinthefirelight]

A CAT is the collective name for the group of part time training centres, it isn't a funding award.

 

So a child auditions for their local CAT in the same way as they audition for a full time school.

 

If they are successful an MDS award may cover the fees. CATS are meant to be a training scheme for those who are either unsuccessful in getting a full time place but are still very talented or who don't want to go away to full time school.

[atacrossroads]

Ah, that makes sense now! Thanks so much!

[Huddsballetmum]

Just to add that CAT's bursary is means tested in the same way as an MDS.  The more you earn, the more you pay :-(

[HAIRBELLES]

One other thing ....all the students on a CAT scheme are entitled to MDS not just the lucky few . The forms ask the same questions but if memory serves me correctly the thresholds for financial help are lower.

[Curious]

My daughter is on a mds on a cats scheme. It's is means tested and covers travel, uniform and accommodation. Great way of training any getting access to professional teachers whilst staying at home.

[Jazzpaws]

My DD went to Dance East CAT before starting at Central this September. Places are for students between 10 and 18 who aim to make dance their career. All successful applicants are put forward for the means tested bursary which can also cover travel costs and most uniform costs