Classes: Introduction
Nursery
Children of 2½ years - 3 can begin the nursery class.
The class consists of music and movement which incorporates a little basic ballet technique, floor exercises for strengthening tummies, backs and legs, lots of running, skipping, jumping, marching galloping and tip-toes !
Use of props such as wands, scarves, flags and shakers is encouraged. Varied music is used to inspire creativity and movement.
After the nursery class pupils progress to a more structured
pre-school class or to Pre-Primary Ballet when they begin school.
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Pre-Primary Ballet
This is the first structured ballet class teaching the basic positions and technique. Pupils take a presentation class in front of an R.A.D examiner before they continue into the Primary ballet class. A presentation class is not an examination. Pupils are accompanied by their teacher, who directs them through the syllabus. Each child is then presented with an R.A.D certificate by the examiner.
Pupils who continue with ballet, progress from Primary through to Grade VIII.
The R.A.D. syllabus incorporates classical ballet free movement and character work within the syllabus.
This gives pupils a taste of different styles in the ballet class.
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Ballet - Primary & onwards
After Pre-Primary Ballet children progress to Primary Ballet. At this age (5 - 6 years) some pupils decide they might try modern or tap. For most children this is an appropriate age to start something new. Ballet provides a good basis - encouraging discipline, musicality and strength so when they progress to something different they already have an understanding of what a dance class entails and what their teacher expects of them.
Pointe work classes are offered to Grade VI standard and above.
Tap
Although tap is good fun, good exercise and rewarding, it requires a substantial amount of concentration and discipline. When children fully engage they will be rewarded with producing good sound and tone, danced with rhythm, style and musicality. Pupils work through the tap grades, and can also take the bronze, silver and gold tap awards.
Modern
Modern is a more free style of dance incorporating the use of rhythm and style. This may be the better option for children who find it more difficult to stand still and concentrate - although as in all forms of dance, technique and strength play a large part. As the children progress through the modern grades they can also take the bronze, silver and gold jazz awards.
