What is National 5 and Higher Dance?

National 5 and Higher Dance are courses designed to challenge and inspire you as both a performer and choreographer. You’ll develop advanced technical skills in a range of dance styles, refine your ability to perform with confidence, and explore the creative process of choreography. Alongside practical work, you’ll study the history of dance, choreographic devices, and the impact of different styles and practitioners.

These courses combine performance, creativity, and theory, preparing you for further study or careers in the performing arts.

What skills are developed?

By taking National 5 or Higher Dance, you’ll strengthen:

• Technical ability in a variety of dance styles
• Performance skills including expression, confidence, and stage presence
• Choreographic skills – creating, structuring, and refining original work
• Analytical skills – evaluating your own and others’ performances
• Knowledge of dance history and theory
• Transferable skills such as discipline, teamwork, creativity, and resilience

What kind of person does it take?

This subject is perfect for someone who:

• Enjoys being creative and expressive
• Is motivated to improve their technical and performance skills
• Has an interest in the history and theory of dance
• Is willing to work both independently and as part of a group
• Wants to challenge themselves physically and mentally

Horizons – Where can this subject take you?

Studying Dance at National 5 or Higher opens doors to exciting opportunities:

• Further study in Higher Education (Dance, Performing Arts, Theatre Studies)
• Careers in performance, choreography, teaching, or arts management
• Transferable skills that are valuable in any career, such as confidence, communication, and creativity

Pathways – How can I make progression?

School

• National 5 Dance à Higher Dance
• PE Pathways

 

College

• Courses available at Dance for All

 

Employment

• Opportunities with the performing arts.

 

University

• The MGA Academy, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, University of Edinburgh

 

Related subjects that work well with Dance

Dance pairs well with other creative and expressive subjects, as well as those that build analytical and communication skills:

• Drama – for performance and stagecraft
• Music – for rhythm, timing, and creative collaboration
• PE – for physical fitness, movement analysis, and performance skills
• English – for analytical writing and understanding choreography theory
• Art & Design – for creativity and visual expression