Associates to full-time students: meet Joel, Tabitha and Taylor
As our Associate Programme continues to grow with new centres opening around the UK and the UK Scholars programme for Mid Associate students starting in 2026, we’re spotlighting three full-time students who began their journey with The Royal Ballet School as Associates themselves.
1st Years Joel Abidoye and Taylor Ticehurst attended the London Associate Centre in Covent Garden while Year 9 Tabitha Evans attended the Manchester Associate Centre. All three shared their experiences as Associates, how the Programme led them to pursue full-time training and what advice they have for current Associates.
When did you enter the Associate Programme and how long did you participate? How did you first learn about it?
TT: I first heard of the Associate Programme from my first ballet teacher, and she recommended it to me for the next level of pre-vocational training. I initially joined the programme in September 2023 and participated until May 2025.
TE: I learned about the programme from other people in my dance school participating as well. I first joined in Year 5 and left in Year 8.
What are your favourite memories from the Programme?
JA: Learning about the history of ballet and building a strong foundation through the basics of ballet. This really helped me later in my training. In Senior Associates, my favourite memory was refining my technique with Mr. Shaun Walters, as well as the weeks when I was able to take the Advanced Associates class. I loved being challenged by harder steps and having the opportunity to practise pas de deux.
TT: When I first got to do a grand jeté in one of the studios and immediately fell in love with the studios.
TE: Coming to the Royal Opera House to watch dress rehearsals of The Nutcracker and other performances.
How did the programme lead you to auditioning for full-time training? Did you always want to attend the School full-time?
JA: I have wanted to attend The Royal Ballet School full-time since Year 6. The performance opportunities and workshops I was able to participate in as an Associate helped me a lot when preparing for my audition for full-time training in Year 11.
TT: The programme allowed me to learn the School’s technique. Since my lessons were held at Upper School in Covent Garden, this allowed me to feel more comfortable at the audition and familiar with my surroundings. The programme, alongside my amazing training at Tring Park, prepared me for full-time training at the school.
TE: I loved the training as a Junior Associate and a Mid Associate, and I wanted to do it every day.
How does full-time training compare to your Associate training?
JA: Full-time training is definitely a step up. Not only am I working on things in the studio, but also outside the studio in the gym and Pilates studios, which I feel really support my overall development. My Associate training helped me strengthen my foundations and learn The Royal Ballet School’s technique, which has been very valuable in my full-time training.
What advice would you give current Associate students wishing to audition for full-time training?
JA: Believe in themselves and enjoy every moment of the journey. The Associate Programme gives you such a strong foundation, so trust the process and know that the hard work you’re putting in now will pay off in the future. Don’t be discouraged if progress feels slow at times — every step, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals. Stay curious, stay passionate, and remember why you love to dance, because that love will carry you through challenges and help you shine.
TT: Apply what your teachers say, always come to class inquisitive and leave knowing more than you did before you entered class.
TE: Give it your best shot. It will all be worth it, and you will enjoy it so much.
Learn more and apply for the Associate Programme and full-time training here.
