What is Scottish Ballet Youth Exchange?

Scottish Ballet’s Youth Exchange is a unique dance programme for young dancers in Scotland aspiring to a professional career in the dance industry.

The Youth Exchange programme aspires to kickstart the development of the next generation of the dance industry, building confidence in young dancers through a holistic and nurturing artistic programme.

Watch the video below to find out more.

Who can apply?

The programme is for dedicated and driven dancers aged 14-24, based in Scotland who aspire to a career in the dance industry. You must be able to travel to Scottish Ballet HQ in Glasgow for weekly sessions on a Tuesday evening as well as a limited number of weekend sessions throughout the year. A full list of dates will be provided.

Scottish Ballet look forward to creating a diverse Youth Exchange company, welcoming dancers from a range of backgrounds, dance styles and experiences. Scottish Ballet aims to provide additional resources and support wherever possible ensuring this unique opportunity is accessible even if you have previously faced barriers in your training.

What can I expect?

• Weekly workshops to support the development of your dance technique, artistic skillset and individual creative voice.
• Choreographic intensives with a range of professional guest artists and choreographers who will work with you to devise original dance works as a Youth Exchange company.
• The opportunity to perform as a company at a range of events and festivals throughout the year providing a glimpse into life as a professional dance artist.
• The opportunity to further your understanding of the dance industry and career aspirations as well as develop your professional skillset in areas such as fundraising, entrepreneurial skills and leadership skills to support your future career within the industry.
• The chance to travel nationally and internationally to work with and learn from renowned artists, dancers and choreographers.
• Unique access to Scottish Ballet performances and events with a peek behind the scenes of Scotland’s national dance company.

What’s new this year?

In this new Youth Exchange format, you will be invited to engage in a two-year pathway.

Year 1 will focus on developing your existing dance technique and will provide insight into working and performing across Scotland with other dancers as a company. You’ll also have regular workshops with professionals from across the industry to build your holistic knowledge as an artist.

Year 2 will build on this artistic grounding while continuing with regular guest workshops and performance opportunities. You’ll have the opportunity to delve deeper into your choreographic expression as well as being provided with practical tools for a career in dance such as audition skills and portfolio development with mentorship from dance professionals.

Fees and Audition Timeline

Participation in the Youth Exchange programme will require a one-off fee of £100. Financial support is kindly made available for a limited number of young dancers who are eligible by the John Mather Charitable Trust. If you would like to find out more, please contact francesca.mccoy@scottishballet.co.uk

Entry onto the Youth Exchange programme is via audition this coming October at Scottish Ballet. The audition workshops will be led by Scottish Ballet’s engagement team, and we aim to create a relaxed and welcoming environment. All auditions are free to attend.

Sunday 26th October 2025 Scottish Ballet HQ – Open Audition

The open audition will consist of contemporary based movement sequences and creative tasks with other dancers.

Sunday 9th November 2025 Scottish Ballet HQ – Invitation Only Recall Audition

The recall audition will consist of a contemporary workshop and creative tasks as well as a short relaxed interview to talk about you and why you’d like to take part in the Youth Exchange programme.

If you have any questions about Youth Exchange, please contact francesca.mccoy@scottishballet.co.uk 

Youth Exchange activity is generously supported by the John Mather Charitable Trust.