AJ’s School of Dance in Cartergate, Newark, to open Savage Performing Arts Academy in September

A dance school is expand-ing its programme to offer college diploma qualifi-cations from September.

AJ’s School of Dance in Cartergate, Newark, will run Savage Performing Arts Academy during the day and the dance school in the evening.

It is expanding its curriculum to offer a BTEC level three diploma, the equivalent to two A-levels.

The programme includes dance, singing and acting.

It offers classes as musical theatre, ballet, jazz, commercial, audition preparation and pilates to mental health-focused classes such as yoga, meditation, relaxation and breath work.

Amy Matthews, owner and founder of the dance school and college, said: “This is something I have wanted to do for a very long time - to be able to provide the children with higher education and different opportunities within our local area.

“I want to inspire the younger generation who want to go into performing arts and might not be able to travel out of the area.”

The college will accept a maximum of 30 students, aged 16 to 19, and applications will be open until November this year.

Additional to the college programme, a teaching qualification course will be open for students.

The college’s name originates from the challenges that the arts industry presents to those who enter the path.

“You can learn, singing, dancing, acting, you become so much more stronger and confident within yourself and have the skills, tools and knowledge behind you to take on the industry,” said Amy.

“You have got to be very sure, have that passion and drive. It is not an easy industry, it is hard work. You need to want it, it is literally savage.

“You have to be willing to work very hard to get into the industry and we are here to support them, guide them and help give them the best of arts that we can.”

Amy wanted to pursue a career in performing arts but 20 years ago she decided to try a career in teaching as she was good with children.

Her first class was two students in Lincoln and 19 years later, she has her own dance school with over 200 students.

“We are trying to reach the students and let them know that we are here and they don’t have to go looking down in London because we are bringing it to our area, here in Newark,” said Amy.

Amy is looking to contact schools in the area to set up career days or to talk with her students to promote the college.

The college is hosting an open day on June 2, from noon to 2pm.