An A-level student at Sharnbrook Academy is celebrating after accepting a coveted place at the prestigious English National Ballet’s Youth Company (ENBYouthCo).
Will Heron, a Year 13 student at Sharnbrook Sixth Form who trains at Elev8 Studio, will begin training weekly with the company in London in October.
Launched in 2012, ENBYouthCo performs at a number of events throughout the year and is one of the UK’s leading companies in the dance youth sector.
Last year, Will represented Team England at the largest dance competition in the world, the Dance World Cup in Braga, Portugal.
Read: Bedford trio dance their way to World Cup in Portugal
Competing against teams from 65 countries, Will gained automatic selection after being assessed by three international judges in the qualifiers and competing in a classical ballet solo.
Will said, “I am absolutely thrilled to have been offered a place at the ENBYouthCo. I have been dancing since I was 11 and I’m so grateful for this exciting opportunity and this brings me one step closer to pursuing a professional career in dance.
“I can’t wait to start training alongside other like-minded dancers.”
Will’s teachers were effusive in their praise of his talent, dedication and modesty.
Clare Ellis, Will’s dance teacher at Sharnbrook Sixth Form, said, “We are all so proud of Will and all that he has achieved. He is such a dedicated and committed student who brings so much to the dance department here at Sharnbrook.
“Will really deserves this amazing opportunity and will most certainly thrive from such a fantastic experience.
“It is really exciting to see Will beginning these first steps towards the professional world and we really look forward to seeing where this takes him in the future.”
Angela Feehan, co-director at Elev8, said, “The audition process for ENB Youth Company is extremely competitive and it’s a fantastic achievement to be offered a place.
“Will is Head Boy at Elev8 Studios, where he trains multiple times a week in all dance genres.
“He is extremely talented (and modest) and is a great role model to younger students. This is the latest achievement to add to Will’s list, as part of Team England and All England Finalist.
“He is an absolute pleasure to teach and is always available to help and mentor younger students.
“He works hard and always has a smile on his face. We couldn’t be prouder of the young man and dancer he has become.”
Principal of Sharnbrook Academy,Clare Raku, said, “We are incredibly proud of Will for what he has achieved. It is testament to his hard work and dedication that he has secured a place at the English National Ballet whilst juggling his final year of school studies.
“It is wonderful to see his hard work pay off, and we wish Will all the best on his new adventure in London.”
