Adult Class Descriptions

We offer the following classes to our adult students.

Classical Ballet – Non-Syllabus Classes

Beginners/Beginners Plus – Suitable for those with very little or no previous experience in dance, this class teaches the basics of ballet technique with a view to moving up a level after a year.

Beginners: This class is aimed at complete beginners with no prior experience.

Beginners Plus: This class is more suited towards students who have had a small amount of experience but still consider themselves to be a beginner to Ballet.

General – This class is suitable for those with at least two years of recent training in ballet technique and wish to develop their skills and technique.

Advanced – For those at advanced level, or professional dancers who would like a fast-paced and challenging class.

Classical Ballet – Syllabus Classes

Adult Intermediate Foundation Syllabus Class (applications cease at half-term): This provides an in-depth study of ballet, developing technique, music and performance skills, and introducing pointe work for female candidates. You must have at least two years of recent ballet training to apply. You will be assessed by the teacher in your first class. Entry into the class does not guarantee entry into the exam.

Adult Intermediate Syllabus Class (applications cease at half term): This provides an in-depth study of ballet, developing technique, music and performance skills. To apply, you should either have at least three years of recent ballet training, have completed the Intermediate Foundation exam, or have achieved RAD Grade 6 ballet (or equivalent). You will be assessed by the teacher in your first class. Entry into the class does not guarantee entry into the exam.

Advanced Foundation, 1 and 2: (applications cease at half term): The Examinations syllabus provides an in-depth study of ballet developing technique, music and performance skills. To apply for this class, you should have completed the preceding qualification. Students will be assessed by the teacher in their first class. Entry into the class does not guarantee entry into the exam. Please note, Advanced Foundation, Advanced 1 and Advanced 2 classes are mixed age classes.

Adult Discovering Repertoire Level 3 (applications cease at half term): A classical ballet performance programme, an innovative new concept in training and assessment from the RAD. Uniquely, the programme includes well-known classical repertoire, meaning students will learn and dance choreography that they have seen on stage, set to music that they know and love. Level 3 is equivalent to Grades 6-8/Intermediate & Advanced Foundation standard) and students are able to take an exam in this when certain criteria have been reached, if required.

Other Classes available to students aged 18+

Contemporary (General level): Contemporary is versatile and can be danced to almost any style of music or be mixed with other dance forms to create new styles of movement.

Jazz (General level): Following a Jazz warm-up and technical exercises, dancers will learn choreography in various styles including lyrical, commercial, and musical theatre. Developing routines during each class, students will gain a secure knowledge of the style before moving on to new choreography.

Adult Classical Barre and Technique Enhancement (General level): A non-syllabus classical ballet class suitable for all levels. Classes consist of a classical ballet barre followed by focused work on technique, musicality and artistry.

Yoga (General level): This class incorporates yoga postures, gentle movement sequences, breath work, supported silent meditation, and guided relaxation to support increased awareness and mindfulness of the breath and body, and quieting of the nervous system.

Pilates (General level): This class concentrates on strengthening the body with an emphasis on core strength which helps to improve general fitness and overall well-being. – (Bookings for this class can be made by contacting Wendy Jardine  directly at wjard20383@aol.com.

Stretch and Strength (General level and Advanced:) Stretching keeps muscles flexible, strong and healthy, allowing a greater range of motion required for dance and general wellbeing. Developing strength will improve posture, core, balance, pointe work, and speed required in dance of all genres.

RAD Dance for Life These low-impact dance classes invite you to mobilise joints and strengthen muscles while coordinating the body through various dance techniques. From classical to cabaret, these classes boost physical and mental wellbeing, bringing joy to movement and dancing. Lead by a specialist teacher, these classes include both supported stretch and strengthening exercises utilising a chair and the ballet barre, as well as standing exercises in the centre. A great way to maintain mobility and energy in a supportive, friendly environment.

Adult Pointe (Intermediate levels): 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 (or Intermediate Foundation level with recommendation from a Dance School teacher) to strengthen and develop their technique in this key area of classical ballet, whilst also working on their performance and artistry skills.

Advanced Pointe (Advanced 1 and 2): A classical ballet class with a strong focus on the development of pointe work. Following a structured warm-up, this 45 minute class will give students a minimum of 30 minutes of pointe work. This is a fantastic opportunity for students at Advanced levels and above to strengthen and develop their technique in this key area of classical ballet.

Advanced Non Syllabus Ballet (Advanced Foundation + only): A non-syllabus, classical ballet class for students of Advanced level. Students are given the opportunity to use their RAD syllabus training in this challenging and focused class.

Strength and Conditioning (Vocational): Strength and Conditioning will enhance and maximize capabilities to improve performance over time and a complimentary exercise to all dance genres. Overall, it can strengthen bones, improve posture and balance, core strength, improve mood, Increase muscle mass and metabolism, prevent injury as well as speed injury recovery time. This class will also incorporate stretching for flexible, strong, healthy muscles, allowing a greater range of motion required for dance and general wellbeing.

Silver Swans (Over 55s): These ballet classes will help improve your mobility, posture, coordination and energy levels. Whether you’re an experienced dancer, have briefly dabbled, or are a complete novice, we welcome all older learners of any ability.

Move to the Musicals (Over 55s): Classes improve posture and balance through a variety of exercises and movement sequences inspired by musical theatre and jazz dance. Most importantly, you’ll have fun and enjoy the sense of well-being that dance brings!

For questions regarding Adult Classes and 18+ classes please email danceschool@rad.org.uk.