London Youth Circus
Progressive circus training for young people aged between 11 – 18 years
Who it's for
The London Youth Circus (LYC) is for young people aged 11 – 18 (Year 7 – 13) who are interested in taking their circus training further through progressive, focused training. The LYC is about supporting and nurturing a love of circus and the arts.
The aim for our London Youth Circus Programme is to:
Create well rounded circus artists
Whilst everyone has their favourite discipline, we think it’s important that LYC’ers are encouraged to try a range of creative and technical classes. We hope this will develop their skill base so that when they finish their time with us, they can utilise what they have learned to support their pathway into the performing arts, if they wish to take that step.
Support personal development
The LYC isn’t just about developing circus skills because we find supporting personal development has just as much importance. We do this through embedding confidence building, leadership and creativity in our teaching and classes and believe the programme thrives on its supportive community and friendship.
Develop an appreciation of the arts
We want to give those in LYC an opportunity to explore the world of the arts and be inspired by what the sector has to offer. We do this by offering subsidised tickets to live performances and taking part in enrichment workshops with international artists and companies.
What can I train in?
The main skills we offer are Silks, Hoop, Trapeze, Tightwire, Juggling and Acrobatics. Which main skill you train in is decided on through the audition process. You will also have the chance to train in other circus disciplines across our minor skill offer, enrichment workshops and supporting classes.
Levels
We offer three levels in London Youth Circus: LYC 1, LYC 2 and LYC 3. We generally see most students stay within a level for at least 1 – 2 years, and whilst skill progression is part of this decision, we also consider potential, attendance, attitude and age. Once you are on the programme, you will receive end-of-year feedback from our circus teachers, who will discuss strengths and areas to focus on for the following year. This is also when you know if they think you should move up a level for the following year.
When is training?
LYC training is held on Sundays where participants have their main training in either: Silks, Hoop, Trapeze, Acrobatics, Juggling or Tightwire. On Sundays you also take on a “minor” skill which allows you to try out the other skills we offer. You will rotate through these during the year and everyone gets the same amount of time on each one so no one misses out. As our students progress through the levels, they get to focus more on the skills they prefer.
Supporting Classes
Our weekday classes are called Supporting Classes and are optional. These are a chance for LYC participants to try new things and diversify their skill base. The content will differ each term however we usually focus on creative classes and other disciplines that aren’t offered on Sundays, for example Chinese Pole, Group Acro, Cyr Wheel or Handstands.
These are not compulsory and are offered free as part of the fee for the LYC.
Tuesday: LYC 1, 5 – 7pm
Wednesday: LYC 2,  5 – 7pm
Friday: LYC 3,  5 – 7pm
Apply
Applications London Youth Circus 25/26 are now closed.
Successful participants train in one main skill in: Silks, Hoop, Trapeze, Acrobatics, Juggling or Tightwire.
To apply for LYC please complete the online application form by 20th of April 2025 and auditions will be taking place on Saturday 10th of May, so keep this date free.
You must choose three of the skills offered on LYC that you will audition in. If you are successful you will be able to train in one of the options we’ve decided upon. More information on what the audition entails will be sent once applications are closed.
If you have any questions at all, please get in touch with Natalie via email or call 020 7613 8274.
We offer scholarships for young people taking part in our youth programmes, including LYC pending a successful audition. Find out more here.
Applications close April 20 2025.
Cost
The London Youth Circus costs ÂŁ292 each term (based on a 12-week term)*
This covers your 2-hour session on Sundays and works out as ÂŁ24.33 per week for 2 hours of training. Concession rates are also available.
*It’s important to note term lengths may vary (11, 12 or 13) depending on the academic calendar and commercial hires. LYC fees are subject to change each year and may increase. Â
Â
London Youth Circus
BLOOMST - London Youth Circus
