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Student course guide

The Royal Academy of Dance offers a wide range of courses, classes and workshops for young people

RAD Dance school

The Dance School is based at RAD Headquarters in Battersea (London) and offers a variety of classes for young people from the early age of 2½ years through to adults. Programmes include ballet, West End jazz, contemporary and creative dance for both males and females. Classes are taught by highly respected and experienced teachers and take place in seven purpose-built studios. Changing facilities are available on site.

Whether students are already taking classes and want to develop their technique and skills further, or are new to dance and looking for a fun way to get fit, the Dance School has the class to suit their ability.

Ballet (Pre-school 1 to Advanced 2)
The Academy offers classes suitable for those with little or no previous experience to those seeking more challenging work towards a deeper understanding of ballet.

Pre Vocational (Grade 4 +)
A non-syllabus class specifically designed for students from Grade 4 upwards to develop their technique and strength and gain a sound knowledge of the vocabulary required for Intermediate Foundation. This will ensure a more seamless transition for the student from the Graded syllabus into Vocational levels. Entry in to this class is by invitation only and the class must be taken in addition to at least one Graded class.

Ballet for beginners (13 to 17 year olds)
Suitable for students with little or no previous experience of ballet, these non-syllabus classes introduce the basics of ballet technique with an emphasis on fun and enjoyment. The study of ballet improves posture, general health and co-ordination whilst giving the opportunity to express and communicate through music and movement. The classes will be taught by a highly experienced and respected RAD teacher and accompanied by a pianist and are a perfect preparation for RAD adult ballet or Graded syllabus classes.

Boys Ballet Level 1 (5 to 8 year olds) / Level 2 (9 to 11 year olds) / Level 3 (12 to 16 year olds)
A specialist non-syllabus class for boys which focuses on male ballet technique and choreography. Taught by a male RAD teacher the classes develop core strength, musicality and presentation skills and are invaluable to dance students. Promoting fitness and wellbeing, boys ballet provides a core technique that will enhance performance in all other styles of dance, from jazz and tap to contemporary and street dance.

Classical Ballet with a Focus on Pointe work Level 1 (Intermediate +) / Level 2 (Advanced 1 +)
A classical ballet class with a strong focus on the development of Pointe work. Following a structured warm up, students will study at least 30 minutes of Pointe work. This is a fantastic opportunity for students at Intermediate Level and above to strengthen and develop their technique in this key area of classical ballet whilst also working on their performance and artistry skills.

West End Jazz 1 (7 to 10 year olds) Photo: David Tett
This exciting class gives the perfect introduction to jazz dance steps as seen on the West End stage all set to popular music. A thoroughly enjoyable jazz experience!

West End Jazz 2 (11 to 18 year olds)
This class covers a wide range of jazz styles enabling students to explore new talents and improve existing skills. A blend of styles offering the ultimate jazz experience.

Family Dance Movement Class
This is a fun and creative movement class for toddlers aged 2½ and above and their parent, grandparent or carer. The classes are taught by a highly experienced and respected RAD teacher and accompanied by a pianist. These classes are a perfect introduction to movement and dance and provide a good springboard into the RAD Pre-School curriculum. The classes will be designed to improve the children’s confidence and co-ordination and develop their social skills. Using an array of props and lively music, the classes guarantee to capture the children and adult’s imagination.
Photo: David Tett Creative (4 to 8 years olds)
An inspiring and imaginative class. Participants are encouraged to express themselves through music, movement and improvisation.

Contemporary Beginners / Level 1 (9 + year olds)
This class provides a wonderful introduction to contemporary dance and self-expression drawing upon elements of contemporary technique.

PLEASE NOTE: where applicable, students will be asked to disclose details of other dance schools they currently attend.

For further information please contact Ana Little, Dance School Administrator, +44 (0)20 7326 8043, alittle@rad.org.uk