London Contemporary Dance School
Based at The Place, one of the most exciting and influential contemporary dance spaces in Europe since it first opened its doors in 1969, London Contemporary Dance School is a world-leading higher education institution and cultural hub, excelling at developing independent, authentic voices in the field for over fifty years.
Home to a production house making and touring new work, a 280-seat professional theatre, an extensive offer of classes, courses and opportunities for adults and young people, and professional development programmes for artist, The Place provides LCDS students a creative and dynamic environment with unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, networking, and growth.
Our BA students study on a highly practical and intensive course with industry-leading guest artists and companies, many of whom are LCDS alumni themselves. On the postgraduate programme, students embark on one of our four interdisciplinary, research-led courses to specialise and upskill their dance practice within a wider field of study.
International students
Every year, we are honoured to be the school of choice for students from around the world. Set in the heart of London, LCDS mirrors the city as a melting pot of cultures with international students from over 50 countries making up almost 40% of our total student body.
We acknowledge the additional challenges overseas students can face, especially when travelling from countries with visa restrictions, language barriers, or higher currency exchange rates.
Our student support and admissions team provide support with visas, English as an additional language, accommodation, and finances. Health and wellbeing support is also provided to help with adjusting to life in the UK.
Quick Facts
LCDS received the world-leading specialist provider status and funding from the Office for Students, the only specialist provider exclusively for dance education to receive this status.
The BA (Hons) Contemporary Dance course was ranked #1 in the 2024 Guardian League Tables for Dance and Drama (with other former members of the Conservatoire for Dance and Drama)
LCDS has achieved a Silver rating overall, with Gold for Student Experience and Silver for Student Outcomes in the 2023 Teaching and Excellence Framework (TEF) ratings, applicable for the next four years.
Student
stories
I feel like not only LCDS, but The Place has become like home for me in London. Entering the building feels like a safe space. I can be myself, and I know that I will feel supported and cared for.
Darinka Bojorquez, BA student from Mexico
The ability to place dancers on a track to distinctive artistic expression is no fluke. It is the carefully crafted aim of LCDS.
Rebecca Douglas, BA Graduate, 2020