The Classes

Nicolle teaching a ballet class
 

Pointe Works offers:

  • Classical Ballet and Character Dance through The Royal Academy of Dance syllabus.

  • The Royal Ballet School’s Affiliate Training Programme.

  • Rambert Grades Contemporary Dance Syllabus.

Students can study any or all of the courses. Please click on the links above for more information on the individual programmes and their differences.

Children can start Ballet Classes in the September before they start School, usually around the age of 4. Ballet classes are organised into academic school years.  From Grade Two and above the children are encouraged to attend two classes a week if possible.  Children can start Rambert Grade 1, Contemporary Dance at age 7.

Below is a list of the Classes offered, a guide to the suitable entry point and possible speed of study. Please bear in mind that at least one academic year must be spent at each grade before moving up, and these are only guidelines - some children will need longer. It is not advisable to rush children through their ballet training, there are absolutely no benefits in doing this.

  • First Steps Ballet is for Pre-School Children to study in the academic year before they start Reception. Classes are 30 minutes and one parent is asked to accompany their child to the lesson.

  • Next Steps Ballet is for Children to study whilst they are in Reception. Classes are 30 minutes and children attend independently from this age onwards.

  • At Year One, children study The Royal Ballet Affiliate Training & Assessment Programme, Level 1 (2 year course) Classes are both 45 minutes long.

  • In Year Two, children complete their 2nd year of Royal Ballet Level 1 Training, with an assessment at the end of the academic year. Classes are 45 minutes long.

  • Year Three children can study:

    • Royal Academy Grade One which is recommended to be studied over a minimum of 4 academic terms (60 guided learning hours). Classes are 45 minutes long.

    • Royal Ballet Level 2 which is a two year course (100 guided learning hours). Classes are 1 hour long.

    • Rambert Grades Grade One, Contemporary Dance

  • Year Fours complete RAD Grade One and start studying RAD Grade Two (60 guided learning hours) and or complete Royal Ballet Level 2. Classes are 1 hour long.

  • Year Fives can continue with RAD Grade Two and or begin Royal Ballet Level 3. Classes are 1 hour long.

  • Year Sixes Start RAD Grade Three (60 guided learning hours) and or continue with Royal Ballet Level 3. Classes are 1 hour long.

  • Year Sevens can continue to complete RAD Grade three and or complete Royal Ballet Level 3. Classes are 1 hour long

  • Year Eights begin RAD Grade Four which is recommended to be studied over 2 academic years (75 guided learning hours) with an exam at the end of year nine.