apprentice program
(Ages 12+)

Building readiness

The Apprentice Program is designed for dancers who are passionate about Competitive Dance but who would benefit from additional focused training before joining one of Studio C's Competitive Teams.

Rather than waiting another season to pursue their goals, Apprentice dancers spend the year developing the technical skills, performance quality, confidence, and work habits required for competitive dance. Through structured training and meaningful performance opportunities, dancers experience many of the expectations of our Competitive Program while receiving individualized instruction designed to help them reach the next level.

At a Glance

Ages: 12+
Duration: One Dance Season (September–May)
Focus: Competitive readiness through focused technical training
Performance Opportunities:
Novice Competitive Solo
CDTA Examinations
Santa Claus Parade
Three Dance Competitions
Studio C Annual Recital
Competitive Recital (Solo Performance)

A bridge to competitive dance

The Apprentice Program serves as a stepping stone between Recreational and Competitive Dance.

Designed specifically for dancers whose current technical and performance skills do not yet align with the expectations of their age-level Competitive Team, the program provides a structured environment where dancers can continue pursuing their competitive goals while developing the skills necessary for long-term success.

Throughout the season, dancers train with purpose, receive individualized technical corrections, and begin experiencing many of the expectations that come with competitive dance, including commitment, accountability, teamwork, and independent practice.

Performance opportunities

Apprentice dancers enjoy many of the same performance experiences as Studio C's Competitive Program while continuing to develop confidence on stage.

Throughout the season, dancers participate in:

CDTA Examinations
Santa Claus Parade
Three Dance Competitions
Studio C's Annual Year-End Recital
Competitive Recital (Novice Solo)

These experiences allow dancers to apply the skills they develop in class while becoming more comfortable performing in front of audiences and adjudicators.

Classes and training

Every Apprentice dancer follows a carefully designed training schedule that addresses both technical development and overall competitive readiness.

Mandatory training

Apprentice dancers participate in:

45-minute Recreational Jazz
45-minute Recreational Tap
30-minute CDTA Syllabus Jazz
30-minute CDTA Syllabus Tap
45-minute Competitive Solo Class (Novice Solo)

The solo class provides individualized instruction designed to address the specific technical, performance, and classwork corrections needed for future competitive success.

Optional training

To further accelerate progress, Apprentice dancers are encouraged to add:

Ballet
Acro
Lyrical

Additional recreational solos or duets may also be added for dancers wishing to gain additional performance experience.

Expectations

Although Apprentice dancers are not officially members of Studio C's Competitive Team, they are expected to approach training with the same level of commitment and responsibility.

Attendance, punctuality, preparation, dress code, work ethic, teamwork, and a willingness to accept and apply corrections all play an important role in a dancer's development throughout the season. These habits are just as important as technical improvement when determining future competitive readiness.

Looking ahead

At the conclusion of each dance season, Studio C instructors carefully review every Apprentice dancer's progress and readiness for future placement.

Depending on each dancer's growth throughout the year, one of three outcomes is possible:

Invitation to an age-appropriate Competitive Team
A second season in the Apprentice Program
Recommendation for continued development in the Recreational Program

Every dancer develops at their own pace. Placement decisions are based on demonstrated readiness for the expectations of the next level rather than simply completing the program. Apprentice dancers are assessed using the same age-level standards as every other dancer entering Studio C's Competitive Program.

Why choose the Apprentice Program?

Not every dancer follows the same path.

Some dancers are ready for Competitive Dance immediately, while others simply need additional time, focused instruction, and meaningful performance experience to reach their goals. The Apprentice Program provides that opportunity.

For dancers who are committed to improving and willing to embrace the expectations of competitive training, the Apprentice Program offers a supportive environment where progress is measured, confidence is built, and future opportunities can be earned through dedication, growth, and consistent effort.

The Apprentice Program may be a great fit if your dancer:

Has expressed an interest in Competitive Dance.
Is eager to improve and willing to work hard.
Would benefit from additional technical training before joining an age-level Competitive Team.
Wants to experience competitive dance in a supportive, developmental environment.

apprentice program (Ages 12+)