Two young dance students are to pursue their dreams after being awarded places at top performing arts colleges.

Ilan Galkoff and Nicole Antonio, members of Hertsmere Academy of Dance and Performing, Borehamwood, have been selected to study at two of the country’s top colleges for the performing arts.

Ilan, aged 10, has just finished playing Gavroche in Les Miserables on the West End and has just been awarded a quarter scholarship to attend the Sylvia Young Theatre School in London.

Nicole, aged 18, has been selected to study a three year BA (Hons) degree in professional dance and music at the world famous Birds College of Dance, Kent.

Thousands apply for these places and the process is very selective.

Chahna Morgan, Hertsmere Academy principal and artistic director, said: “Our mission is to bring the very best out of our students and it is always gratifying to see them progress. It’s tinged with sadness to see them go but we are all very proud of these two youngsters' achievements.

“We know we will all be seeing a lot more of them in the future and that they may soon be joined by students from Hertsmere Academy in the highest echelons of performing arts education in this country.”