Northern Ballet is a powerhouse for inventive dance; raising the profile of ballet in the UK, expanding and challenging people’s perceptions of ballet and performing in places that otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to experience world class dance. Our Academy inspires the dancers of tomorrow in the only specialised classical ballet Centre for Advanced Training in the UK.
We now have an exciting opportunity to join our Academy as CAT Manager (Maternity Cover). With specific responsibility for managing all aspects of the CAT Programme, including feeder programmes such as Spotted and Kitten, this role is responsible for ensuring smooth efficient management and administration of the programme, working with the Academy Team to maximise income opportunities and raise the profile of the Academy of Northern Ballet’s CAT Programme.
- Salary: £30,000 per annum pro rata
- Full time - 35 hours per week
A large proportion of work takes place outside normal office hours, including evenings and at weekends. Usual non-working days are Friday and Sunday (during term time), however there are regular events throughout the year on Sundays, such as auditions, Open Days, Intensives, and rehearsals. Holidays to be taken with regards to term times. - Contract: Fixed Term. 11 months, September 2026 – July 2027
- Closing date for applications: Monday 15 June 2026 8.00am
- Interviews will take place in Leeds, likely week commencing 21 June 2026
Positions are subject to the successful candidate holding or obtaining a full enhanced DBS which must be registered on the update service.
Description
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Key Responsibilities
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- Alongside the Artistic Heads of Programmes and the Head of Academy Administration, create the annual academy timetable, and schedules for intensives, auditions, and other CAT related events throughout the year.
- Manage all aspects of the CAT and associated programmes, covering marketing, recruitment, registration, bursaries, grants, course handbooks, budget management, parent viewings, theatre trips, and end of year performances (in conjunction with NSCD).
- Update the annual budget regularly to accurately monitor income and expenditure.
- Ensure all students have the appropriate resources to assist with their training and delivery of their Individual Training Plans (ITP)
- Organise and facilitate parent and pupil meetings, in conjunction with the artistic team.
- Mentor the students where necessary.
- Arrange annual theatre trips.
- Work with the Artistic Head of Programme (CAT & Open) and the Head of Academy Administration to ensure staff cover across CAT, and related programmes.
- Ensure the Academy Director is informed of any changes to the weekly schedule including any cover or absence to ensure accurate payments are made.
- Work with the Learning Project Manager to schedule Spotted outreach.
- Follow all procedures for the management of GDPR for the students and families on the CAT and associated programmes.
- Alongside the Head of Academy Administration, coordinate all arrangements for CAT Students auditioning for, and performing with the Company, and be a licensed chaperone backstage when required.
- Manage the administration of CAT Open Days.
- Support the administration of the annual Academy auditions.
- Maintain knowledge of and manage communications with other education and dance training providers
- Maintain appropriate staff/student relationships.
- Work with colleagues to ensure thorough and effective evaluation of programmes, and ensure feedback is incorporated in continued planning.
- Attend team and external network meetings, training sessions and other events that may take place outside normal working hours.
- Carry out duties and responsibilities with regard to Northern Ballet’s Equal Opportunities, Health and Safety, and Safeguarding policies.
- Contribute to the strategic development of the Academy of Northern Ballet.
- Carry out any other duties which may be reasonably expected of the role.
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Essential Criteria
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- Level 1 Safeguarding, or willing to undertake.
- Excellent financial management skills, proficient in Excel.
- The ability to work calmly under pressure, self-motivate and use initiative.
- The ability to think creatively and problem solve.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, particularly with students and families.
- Flexible and adaptable approach and positive attitude.
- Good organisation and planning skills.
- Understanding of the importance of confidentiality around personal information in relation to students and their families.
This job description is a guide to the nature of the work required of the role. It is neither wholly comprehensive nor restrictive and forms part of the contract of employment.
Application
Please send details of your relevant experience and tell us why you would like to be considered for this role. This should be in written formats, such as a CV, along with a covering letter. All details should be sent to recruitment@northernballet.com by 8am Monday 15 June 2026.
Please also complete our equal opportunities monitoring form.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview, which will likely take place week commencing 21 June.
Positions are subject to the successful candidate holding or obtaining a full enhanced DBS which must be registered on the update service.
Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Northern Ballet is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We are happy to discuss access requirements and make reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, including providing materials in alternative formats or adapting the interview process.
Header photo taken by Emily Nuttall.
About the Academy
Inspiring the dancers of tomorrow, at the Academy of Northern Ballet you will experience a 21st Century approach to ballet training.
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Centre for Advanced Training
We are the only Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) in classical ballet in the UK, equipping students aged 10-16 with skills to progress onto professional vocational dance training.
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