London Youth Circus
Dynamic circus training for young people aged between 11 – 18 years
The London Youth Circus programme is currently being refreshed, and we’re thrilled to be planning exciting new changes that will roll out in September 2026. We’ll update you on our progress after the Easter holidays — stay tuned!
For more information about the current programme please see below.
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.
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 can offer are Silks, Aerial Hoop, Rope, Trapeze, Tightwire, Juggling, and Acrobatics. Which main skill you train in is decided 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.
When is training?
LYC training is held on Sundays where participants have their main training in either: Silks, Aerial Hoop, Trapeze, Rope, 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.
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.
Apply
Applications for London Youth Circus 26/27 open on Friday 13 March.
Successful participants train in one main skill in: Silks, Aerial Hoop, Rope, Trapeze, Acrobatics, Juggling, or Tightwire.
To apply for LYC please complete the online application form by 12 April 2026. Auditions will be taking place on Saturday 9 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 us 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 12 April 2026.
Cost
As the programme is under review, fees will be updated after the Easter Holidays. The cost for this academic year 2025/26 is 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
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London Youth Circus
BLOOMST - London Youth Circus
