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About the YDC Associates Programme
YDC Associates is a high-level monthly training programme for committed dancers aged 12-21 who want to go beyond weekly classes.
Training runs one Sunday per month from September to June, with dancers placed into one of two groups based on level, readiness and training needs.
The programme focuses on technique, artistry, performance quality, confidence and individual growth, led by York Dance Company Director Sibylle Kockjeu and a carefully chosen team of guest teachers.
TESTIMONIALS
"YDC is one of my favourite things ever! I laugh so much and feel so safe to try new things and push myself. The space is amazing and welcoming. I think of YDC as a little family. My dancing has improved so much and I'm so grateful for all the support and love. I will miss this so so much!"
Associate Term 24/25
"My confidence has grown so much from YDA. The technique has also impacted my training in all parts. Love, love, love!"
Associate Term 24/25
What Makes YDC Associates Different
High-level training with purpose
Every session is designed to develop dancers properly, not just keep them busy.
Real feedback and individual attention
We care about each dancer's progress and what they need in order to grow.
Technique that supports the body
We build strength, control, dynamics and foundations for long-term training.
Artistry, identity and performance development
Dancers are encouraged to move with intention, presence and individuality.
A serious but deeply supportive environment
Focused, ambitious and challenging - without losing the warmth and support dancers need.
Two Training Groups
Our groups are based on level, readiness and training needs, rather than age.
YDC ASSOCIATES 1
For dancers who are ready to build stronger technique, confidence, quality, coordination and consistency in a focused training environment.
Training length: 3.5 hours
YDC ASSOCIATES 2
For dancers ready for a faster pace, deeper technical detail, greater intensity and higher-level performance development.
Training length: 4 hours
Programme Format
YDC Associates runs from September to June, with one Sunday session per month.
Associates 1: 14:45 - 18:15 (3.5 hours)
Associates 2: 10:30 - 14:30 (4 hours)
2026/27 Training Dates:
20 September 2026
11 October 2026
15 November 2026
13 December 2026
17 January 2027
28 February 2027
14 March 2027
18 April 2027
16 May 2027
27 June 2027
Fees
We offer payment options to help spread the cost while keeping the quality and commitment of the programme high.
YDC Associates 1 - 3.5 hours
4 payments of £100
or £400 paid in full
YDC Associates 2 - 4 hours
4 payments of £112.50
or £450 paid in full
Auditions
NO FEES. NO BARRIERS. JUST OPPORTUNITY.
We want to see your potential, passion, individuality and readiness for training.
Audition Format
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One shared audition class for all applicants
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Jazz-based class
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Approx. 1.5 hours
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Placement into one of two training groups if successful
AUDITION DATE:
Sunday 31 May 2026
11 AM - 12:30 PM
If you are unable to attend in person, you may apply via video audition.
Please contact us to request further details.
Founder
YDC Associates was created by York Dance Company Director Sibylle Kockjeu out of a genuine passion for developing dancers with strong technique, artistry, confidence and individuality.
Her students have gone on to train internationally at leading institutions including Iwanson (Munich/Germany), SEAD (Salzburg/Austria), Broadway Dance Center (New York) and Millennium Dance Complex (Los Angeles).
Many former students now work professionally as dancers, choreographers and teachers.
"I created this programme because I know what it feels like to want more from dance. More challenge. More meaning. More connection.
That's what we're building here - it's truly special."
Sibylle Kockjeu
Applying
To apply, dancers should:
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Have previous dance training
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Be ready for a more focused training environment
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Be aged 12 - 21
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Show commitment, passion and genuine desire to grow
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Be open to feedback and willing to work
AUDITION DATE:
Sunday 31 May 2026
11 AM - 12:30 PM
If you cannot attend in person, video auditions are available on request.
Ready to Step Into the Room?
York Dance Company is based at:
SK STUDIO
Unit 1, 14 Redeness Street, YO31 7UU
Director Sibylle Kockjeu
Email: sibylle.dance@gmail.com
+44 (0)7484 210822
