A TEENAGER from Darwen has been chosen to train at one of the country’s top dance schools.

Fifteen-year-old Sophie Charnock, of Cranberry Lane, will study with professional teachers and choreographers at The Lowry’s Centre for Advanced Training in Dance (known as the CAT), after successfully passing an audition.

The head girl at Darwen Vale High School will benefit from eight to 10 hours of ballet coaching a week, and will also take up lessons during holidays.

Sophie said: “The CAT has given me opportunities to work with some of the best teachers I’ve experienced and has also given me the opportunity to study live performance.”

Sophie’s placement has been made possible by northwestdance and The Lowry Youth Dance Partnership, which enables talented teenagers access to specialist instruction while they live at home.

CAT students also receive exclusive performance opportunities and work with companies such as the Ballet Central and the Royal Opera House on collaborative projects for younger dancers.

She beat hundreds of rivals to secure one of just 12 places on the scheme, which she will continue in until she is 18 before she hopes to pursue a career in dance.

Mum Dyan said: “It is a wonderful opportunity and she cannot wait to get started.”

Jonathan Poole, CAT Manager, at The Lowry said: “This is a unique opportunity for highly motivated and passionate young people, regardless of background or previous experience, who aspire to pursue a career in the dance profession."