YOUNG dance prodigy Dino Fisher-Stephens is preparing for the next stage in his career after securing a scholarship to the prestigious Tring Park School for the Performing Arts.

The 12-year-old from Gorse Hill, who attends Pinewood School, in Shrivenham, was given a place at the Hertfordshire school in December, just days after auditioning, but had been waiting to find out whether he would be eligible for a grant.

On Tuesday he heard the good news he had been offered both a scholarship and bursary, halving his £30,000 annual fee.

Dino, part of Swindon Dance’s Stereotype boys group as well as a student on the Youth Dance Academy urban course and STEPS2, said: “I’m very excited. I got a place in December but I had to go back to audition for the scholarship. It was as stressful as the first audition.

“I found out I got it when I was at school. The lady who works at the school reception told me that my mum had tried to call me. But when I called her back she wouldn’t pick up at first. When I spoke to her she told me. It’s the best thing that could have happened.

“In the morning I’ll be training and in the afternoons that’s when I’ll be doing academic work.

“I’ve been dancing since I was about a year old. I’d love to work in the West End, dancing, singing and acting.”

The youngster was one of just two students, and the only boy, to be awarded a scholarship and bursary.

Dino will study on Tring’s Theatre Arts course, learning drama and singing as well as dance.

As part of both auditions he had to prepare and deliver a monologue, sing and take part in a dance class.

“I can’t wait to start,” he said. “I love to perform in front of people, it’s something different. I like the atmosphere.”

Dino’s mum, Clare Fantini-Stephens, who works at Swindon Dance, said: “We are so proud of him.

“Twenty people were invited to audition two weeks ago for a scholarship. I cried when I found out he got the scholarship, I was so happy.

“It brings the fees to a more manageable £15,000 a year.

“We’re really excited for him.

“He has done really well and he’s really looking forward to starting.”