Pattison College

Pattison College grew from Coventry's dance tradition. The Pattison family has taught dance in the city since the 1920s, and Betty Pattison founded the College in 1949 for talented students seeking a full-time education alongside a future in theatre. The offer has since widened into co-educational all-through provision from early years to sixth form, while performance remains a central thread.

Senior pupils follow National Curriculum-based courses leading to GCSEs in English Language and Literature, mathematics, combined science, French, history and geography, alongside BTEC IT. Art, religious education, PSHEE, citizenship and music add breadth. Sixth-form routes include A level or BTEC study in subjects such as English, mathematics, biology, history, geography, art, drama, business studies, IT, computing and performing arts.

Dance, drama and music are taught by specialist teachers, with vocational classes in the timetable for younger pupils and additional lessons at other times. Speech and Drama runs from age four to Year 9, and pupils can work towards LAMDA, IDTA, Associated Board and London College of Music awards. Ballet, modern, tap, contemporary, jazz, musical theatre and street dance lead to performances at College events, charity occasions and regional venues.

Pattison is non-selective and has no boarding. Admissions centre on an enquiry, visit or open day, registration and taster days rather than an entrance examination. Small-scale relationships, creative confidence and academic foundations sit together in a setting where performing arts are part of the educational structure, not an occasional extra.