About All England Dance
All England Dance celebrates dancers aged from three to 21 years. Performers qualify through a network of nationwide nominated festivals to participate in one of the five Regional Finals in May.
Our History & Misson Statement
We were founded in 1923 and since that time we have gained a reputation for excellence.
AED an independent charity, is dedicated to fostering excellence by championing dance and performance among young people, empowering them for personal growth and self-expression through competitive platforms.
We recognise and cultivate extraordinary talent while ensuring that the enriching influence of dance is within reach of every young person, irrespective of their background or circumstances.
Our Values
Nuture
Nurturing performers through kindness and expertise is about creating a supportive, skillful, and emotionally considerate environment that not only enhances their dance abilities but also fosters their overall well-being and growth as individuals and artists.
Extension Programme
- Bringing profound transformative power of dance to all.
Access
We offer inclusive dance programs nationwide, promoting equal opportunities for every child regardless of background or location. Our competitions, workshops, and events focus on positive impact and continual learning. We foster diversity, respect, and advocate the transformative power of dance in personal and cultural enrichment. We provide sincere feedback, uphold respectful communication, and strive to create a welcoming environment for all participants.
AED Scholarships
- Nationwide competitions.
- Fostering confidence, resilience, empathy, and a drive for personal excellence through competitive spirit.
- Awards & Bursaries.
Excellence
The organisation is committed to nurturing and developing the talents of exceptionally gifted individuals in the field of dance. This could involve providing advanced training, mentorship, and financial support through scholarships and bursaries to help these individuals reach their full potential. By prioritising excellence, the organisation aims to contribute to the growth and elevation of dance as an art form.
UKYD Series
- Showcasing the nation’s most talented young performers.
- Providing access to top industry professionals in the field.
Trustees
Jacquie Brunjes
Chair
Sue Passmore
Gavin Sampson
Chair of the Finance Committee
Christine Wagstaff
Senior Independent Director
Dr Sue Waldock
Jodie Clark
Brenda Garratt-Glassman
Dr Nathan James
Jenni Lewin Turner
Nicky Lewis
Jill Redford
Ariane Simard
Kris Taylor
Keith Woodcock
Director of Operations
Jo Wagstaff
Board Of Regional Directors
Elaine Bailey, Dawn Barhan, Emma Barnard, Lynne Casey, Louise Cooper, Nicky Lewis, Nikki Mansell-Rogers, Fiona Watson
Senior Independant Director: Christine Wagstaff
Subsidiary Boards
Nominations Committee: Christine Wagstaff, Dr Sue Waldock
Finance Committee: Gavin Sampson, Christine Wagstaff, Kris Taylor
Extension Programme: Brenda Garratt-Glassman, Sue Passmore
Scholarships & Bursaries: Christine Wagstaff, Dr Sue Waldock
Artistic Committee: Dr Nathan James & adjudicators
Safeguarding & Risk: Linda Lear
People: Dr Sue Waldock, Jill Redford
EDI and Development Legacies Trusts Foundations: Jenni Lewin Turner
Honorary Life Members
Jill Baird, Rita Deller, Judy Deverill, Yvonne Gout, John Headford, Vicky Kemp, Nick Lear, Patricia Lupino Thompson, Valerie Marshall, Jon Massey, Lesley Sewell, Mick Sewell, Mollie Tanner, Beryl Whyatt, Paul Whyatt.
Teachers Committee
Chair and Midlands & North: Helen Leek
East: Sophia Melvin
West: Louise Knapman
South: Louise Cleghorn
South East: Zoe Pennington
Home Counties: Melanie Dudman
Artistic Committee
Chair: Dr Nathan James
Lucy Banfield, Karen Blackburn, Jodie Clark, Jill Redford, Stuart Winter.
Scholarship
Scholarship 2025 – Applications Now Open!
The All England Dance Scholarship for 2025 is officially open! If you’ve competed in our Regional or National Finals recently and are planning to continue your training at a UK Conservatoire or on a CDMT Accredited Course (remove) replace with on a full time 3-year course at Vocational College (Foundation Courses are not accepted) in Autumn 2025, we want to hear from you!
AUDITION DETAILS:
- Ballet & Jazz classes
- Musical Theatre applicants: Prepare a song
- Interview with the AED Board panel
How to Apply: Email info@all-england-dance.org.uk for an application form.
KEY DATES:
- Application Deadline: 15th May 2025
- Notifications Sent: 31st May 2025
- Notifications Sent: 15th June 2025
- Audition & Interview: 25th June 2025
We look forward to receiving your applications!
Supporting
Charities & Organisations
We are very proud to work with and support the following charities and organisations.
Get Into Theatre is the essential website to help you find all the information and opportunities you need to pursue a successful career in theatre in the UK. From backstage to performing, training to apprenticeships, you will find up-to-date theatre jobs information and advice. We believe that all young people – no matter who you are – should have the same chance to have a career in theatre. Many people do not know about all the job options in theatre or the different ways to make a start in a theatre career.
The TIRED Movement was founded in 2020 as a social enterprise (not for profit) to raise awareness about racial injustice within the industry and the importance of representation in dance education. The movement has gained great momentum and support from the dance community and has made great strides towards implementing change across all sectors.
“The more voices we hear, the louder we become”
