Ballet for Young Dancers, Ages 8 to 12

Children at this age are capable of learning quite precise technique if it is taught well. The challenge is keeping the work meaningful without making it feel like a drill. Classes here do both — structured barre and centre work sits alongside musical games and short creative tasks that reinforce what has been learned through movement rather than repetition alone.

The curriculum follows Royal Academy of Dance principles, though students are not required to sit formal examinations. Parents who want their child entered for RAD grades can discuss this with the teacher at the start of term.

What a typical class looks like

Classes run for 60 minutes. The first 20 minutes are barre work — pliés, tendus, the usual foundations. Centre work follows, including simple adagio, basic turns, and petit allegro. The final 10 minutes involve a short combination or creative task that changes each week.

• Maximum 12 students per class
• Ballet flats required; no pointe work at this level
• Hair must be secured off the face — a bun is standard
• One open class per term for parents to observe

Taught by Rowena Aldgate, who has been teaching children this age for fourteen years and has a genuine talent for making corrections feel like suggestions.