Dancer in Training Award
Overview
The Anna Carlisle Dancer in Training Award offers grants of up to £500 to help undergraduate dancers take part in opportunities that support their future careers.
Funding is for travel costs only (within the UK or overseas). You can use it to attend things like summer schools, short courses, masterclasses, or research trips that sit outside of your regular training.
Who it’s for
This award is designed for undergraduate (or equivalent) dancers training in the UK who want to expand their experience beyond their regular studies.
You can apply if you:
- Are 18 or over
- Have been based in the UK for at least 2 years
- Are currently in dance training* in the UK
- Have a clear plan to travel for a project linked to your future in dance
*We understand dance training takes many forms. This opportunity is undergraduate or equivalent level. Graduates and postgraduate students may instead apply to our Main Awards.
What you can do
We support a wide range of projects, including:
- Attending summer schools or masterclasses
- Researching for a dissertation or independent project
- Observing artists, organisations, or creative processes
- Gaining experience in a specific area of dance practice
Your project should feel meaningful to your development and clearly connected to your goals.
What we fund
- Travel costs only (e.g. flights, trains)
- Up to £500
Please note: we cannot fund course fees, accommodation or living costs.
(See FAQs for full details and exceptions.)
2027 Award timeline
Applications open: 1 September 2026
Deadline: 15 November 2026
Projects can take place: January – September 2027
How to apply
Applications are submitted via an online form during the application period.
You will be asked to:
- Tell us about your project and why it matters to you now
- Show how it connects to your training and future plans
- Provide a simple budget and supporting documents
Full application guidance, requirements and tips are in the FAQs.
How we assess applications
We’re looking for applications that are:
- Clearly thought through with realistic plans
- Relevant to your training and future goals
- Motivated and passionate
You don’t need to have everything perfectly in place, but strong preparation will help.
After you apply
You’ll hear the outcome in early December.
If successful, you’ll receive funding for your travel and guidance on next steps.
After your trip, you’ll be asked to share a short report about your experience.
Our aim
This award exists to support dancers at an important stage in their development. We welcome applications from across all areas of dance, and we particularly encourage those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds to apply.
Next steps
- Check the FAQs for detailed eligibility, required documents, and funding rules
- Download the application questions to start preparing
- Apply online when applications open