AJ’s School of Dance, Cartergate, Newark,who are to open Savage Performing Arts Academy held an open day for future students and their parents

A dance school that is expanding its programme to offer college diploma qualifications has offered a taster of things to come.

AJ’s School of Dance in Cartergate, Newark, will run Savage Performing Arts Academy from September.

The future college hosted an open day to meet potential students and give them a small experience of what their classes could be like.

There was a workshop with West End actress, singer, dancer and songwriter Lauren Byrne. Visitors danced to hip-hop and jazz, sang, and did yoga.

“It went absolutely fantastic. We had balloons and cakes made by local businesses,” said Amy Matthews, owner of the dance school.

“Everyone left with a smile and a personalised gift bag.”

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

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

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 first audition for the dance academy will take place on June 30, and then again by the end of July and August.

People can apply for auditions and open days at https://www.savageperformingarts.co.uk/

A further open day is due to be held in August.