Mid and Senior Associates 2026-2027
The English National Ballet School Associates Programme offers committed young dancers the opportunity to experience high-quality vocational training alongside their regular dance classes. Designed by Artistic Director Lynne Charles, the programme reflects ENBS’s dedication to strong classical foundations, musicality, creativity, and the holistic development of young dancers.
Based at our Chelsea studios, Associates work with ENBS faculty, guest artists, and specialist teachers, gaining technical strength, confidence, and an insight into life at a professional ballet school.
Who is the Programme For?
The Associates Programme is ideal for young dancers with strong potential, dedication, and a love of classical ballet. It provides additional high-quality training to complement the work they undertake at their home dance schools while giving them an early introduction to the ENBS approach and vocational expectations.
The programme, shaped personally by Lynne Charles, offers a balanced approach that nurtures artistry, discipline, musicality, and wellbeing creating an authentic yet age-appropriate pathway into vocational training.
Weekly Training
Associates attend training once per week during term time, with extended opportunities for senior students.
Weekly training includes:
- 1.5 hours of classical ballet
- 50 minutes of pointe work (or pre-pointe, depending on level)
- 1 hour of contemporary or character
Additional programme features:
- Ballet and 4Pointe coaching taught by Artistic Director, Lynne Charles
- Specialist teacher for boys’ classes
- Dedicated coaching in character and contemporary
- Gym access for boys, supporting safe physical development
- Optional Senior Associates Wednesday training including ballet, 4Pointe and choreography
Associates also perform in the School’s Winter and Summer Performances, gaining valuable stage experience and the chance to perform alongside the ENBS community.
Teaching Faculty
Senior Associate Teacher – Désirée Ballantyne
Désirée Ballantyne-Grove trained at The Royal Ballet School before joining English National Ballet, where she danced as a Soloist for many years. Her repertoire includes major roles such as Clara in The Nutcracker, Myrtha in Giselle, and the Lilac Fairy in The Sleeping Beauty. She is an experienced tutor who has taught at English National Ballet and Rambert School, and has performed with the Michael Clark Company, the Johann Strauss Gala, and in campaigns for Capezio, Lexus, and Citroën.
Mid Associate Teacher – Megan Webster Shaw
Megan Webster-Shaw trained at West London School of Dance, ArtsEd, English National Ballet School, and The National Ballet School of Canada. After completing the NBOC apprenticeship programme, she returned to London to earn her Royal Academy of Dance teaching qualifications. A founding teacher of The Young Dancers Academy and now Vocational Dance Lead for Key Stage 3 at London Vocational Ballet School, Megan has over 18 years of experience working with young people.
Who should apply?
Mid-Associates: Students aged 12-13 by August 31 2025
Senior Associates: Students aged 14-15 by August 31 2025
The audition panel will be looking for young dancers who have the potential and suitability for a prevocational training. This includes musicality, coordination, and versatility in the young dancers.
How to Apply
Download the Associates Information Pack
This pack includes full details on entry requirements, programme levels, fees, uniform, and audition information.
Review our Associates Term Dates
Before applying, please check the schedule for your relevant Associates level.
Student Term Dates
Submit Your Application
Applications must be completed online and include photographs. See Associates & Intensives for requirements.