Ballet Beginners and Improvers

About this course

The class follows the structure of a traditional ballet lesson, moving from barre work to centre exercises and travelling sequences. Participants practise steps, jumps, turns and short enchaînements, with elements from Progressing Ballet Technique included. Classical music is used to explore movement, rhythm, flow and expression. Teaching combines demonstrations, verbal explanations, repetition and individual and group corrections. Learners discuss their work with the tutor and receive regular feedback while developing safe use of the body, including the five basic ballet positions, posture, alignment, coordination, flexibility, stamina and strength.

What you'll learn

• Apply basic classical ballet technique safely
• Use the five basic ballet positions with the arms and feet
• Perform jumps, turns and short enchaînements
• Explore dynamics, rhythm, flow and expression in movement
• Develop posture, alignment, coordination, flexibility, stamina and strength for ballet

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners, learners consolidating a basic knowledge of ballet, and people returning after a long break. It involves practical physical activity, so learners should have a basic level of fitness and mobility and be able to participate to the best of their ability. Exercises can be adjusted for particular physical or learning needs.

• Requires active participation in practical dance exercises
• Learners should have sufficient fitness and mobility for continuous physical activity
• Exercises may be adapted to meet particular physical or learning needs

Before you go

• Learners should bring a leotard or close-fitting top, tights, leggings or close-fitting tracksuit bottoms, ballet shoes and suitable dance support.
• A bottle of water, notebook and pen are also required.
• Home practice may be completed using recap videos and other resources provided after sessions.
• Photography or filming may be used for learning and publicity, with the option to give or decline consent.
• Learners should inform the tutor about any physical activity they have been advised to avoid; medical advice is recommended in cases of pregnancy, serious health conditions or a history of injury.