Level Guide
Taking the right class for you is important as it will ensure effective progress and increases confidence within your training. Below is a guideline for you to choose the class which suits you.
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Beginner - 0-12 months
This is where you will learn the fundamentals such as how to form the ideal ballet posture and port de bras (arm movements) and the first vitally important movements at the barre such as plies (knee bends in various positions), tendus (leg movements in front, to the side and behind you), heel rises, how to find your balance and count simple musical phrases which enables you to discover your artistry. You will also try out simple and slow centre sequences and petit allegro sur place (small jumps on the spot). Beginner level ballet classes vary in their difficulty and are very repetitive but this is essential for creating nervous system memory. In my classes we spend a lot of time discovering good alignment, learning the accurate use and function of muscles to support specific movements, why we do certain steps and how they will evolve with more experience.
Improver - 12 months to 2 years
A great way of maintaining a thorough technically focussed practice but with a few more challenges thrown in! At this stage I would expect you to have a good grasp of the basics and be working to advance on these by increasing speed, length and complexity of sequences both at the barre and in the centre. This level is where I would also introduce preparation for pirouettes (turns) and begin teaching you travelling some allegro movements.
Intermediate - 2 years to 5 years
Taking this next step into intermediate class means you are confident with the basics and have these in your ‘toolbox’ for when harder steps present themselves, you can work autonomously and intelligently without a huge amount of reliance on the teacher’s constant demonstration, understands the more common musical phrases used in ballet class and is continually working on advancing steps and increasing existing knowledge. Pirouettes from all major positions, travelling turning steps, adage in the centre (slow and sustained balancing steps in the centre, unsupported) and grand allegro (big jumps) will be an objective in these classes.
Beginner/ Improver Pointe Work
You must have at least 2-3 years of ballet training at an Intermediate level although more years are recommended. Your feet will need to be checked by an expert teacher to ensure it is safe for you to go en pointe and extra daily conditioning and for strengthening exercises are essential.
Why not read our Pointe Work Safety and Preparation page to find out more.
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If you’re still unsure as to which class to take please don't hesitate to get in touch.