A PUPIL at Ryedale School has gained a place in the foundation year of the CAT (Centre for Advanced Training) programme at Northern Ballet in Leeds.

Jodie Sunley, 11, of Kirkbymoorside, will take part in the programme which aims to enable young people to achieve their maximum potential as classical ballet dancers.

It is part of a network of eight exemplary dance and music schools sponsored by the Department of Education.

Jodie started her training with an intensive two weeks in the summer and has an individual training plan that requires her to train in Leeds three times a week and at weekends.

She is also performing in the professional Northern Ballet production of the Nutcracker in Leeds Grand Theatre.

Amanda Gentry, head of dance at Ryedale School, said: "Jodie has worked very hard at Sarah Louise Ashworth School of Dance to secure her place at Northern Ballet, and we would like to wish her every success with her future endeavours."