London's children's ballet scene encompasses a vast spectrum, ranging from elite, audition-based programmes linked to major national companies, down to playful, movement-focused classes for toddlers. For families pursuing a vocational route, institutions like The Royal Ballet School or Central School of Ballet offer the most focused training, though entry is highly selective. Meanwhile, options like little London Ballet provide a more gentle, imagination-led introduction for the youngest dancers. Parents should budget for a wide range, with premium, audition-based training often commanding higher term fees, while many local community studios maintain mid-range pricing around £14 to £18 per session, providing excellent value for structured learning.
See our top picks
babyballet
This franchise focuses intensely on toddlers and preschoolers, using creative and age-appropriate methods that are gentle for nervous first-timers.
Creative Arts Kids
As part of a multi-arts offering, this provider keeps prices at the budget end of the spectrum, offering ballet alongside drama and music for younger children.
London Dance Academy
The Clerkenwell location is practical for busy families because it often permits drop-in attendance without requiring full term commitment.
64 Ballet Providers in London
This school is closely linked to The Royal Ballet and is the ultimate goal for aspiring professional ballet dancers in the UK.
The Royal Ballet School runs classes for children across its White Lodge and Upper School programmes, training dancers from around age 11 for professional careers. While primarily a vocational pathway, it represents the highest level of classical ballet training available for older kids in London.
- Focus is on full-time vocational training
- Offers classes for older, serious ballet students
- Auditions required for entry into the programmes
The school runs an intensive Junior Associate Programme, providing a pathway for older kids interested in serious, full-time ballet training.
The Central School of Ballet offers classes through its Junior Associate Programme for dedicated young dancers in London, providing pre-vocational training. This school provides rigorous training for older children and teenagers who show potential for a professional career in ballet.
- Junior Associate Programme for older students
- High level of pre-vocational training
- Located near the South Bank area
Directly connected to the English National Ballet, offering a clear route for the most dedicated older students towards a professional ballet career.
The English National Ballet School provides high-calibre ballet lessons for older children and teenagers aiming for a professional track in the performing arts. Based in Chelsea, this school offers structured training aligned with the national company's standards for serious young dancers.
- Training is highly pre-vocational
- Entry is via audition only
- Located in the Chelsea area of London
This is the central hub for finding classes that follow the internationally recognised Royal Academy of Dance syllabus and examination structure.
The Royal Academy of Dance does not run its own classes directly, but their website helps locate affiliated children's ballet schools across London offering their well-known syllabus. This resource is useful for finding structured ballet lessons for toddlers through to teens using a globally recognised examination structure.
- A directory to find accredited schools
- Syllabus used by many London schools
- Offers classes for all ages from tiny tots
The curriculum is carefully structured to nurture imagination alongside basic ballet technique for pre-school and early primary years.
Little London Ballet provides ballet lessons designed with creativity and fun in mind for younger children across various London locations. Parents looking for an introduction to classical ballet for their preschool or primary-aged child will find engaging classes here.
- Focuses on imaginative and creative movement
- Trial classes are available to book
- Locations found via the website schedule
This school offers the option to take formal Trinity College London exams, giving older primary and secondary students recognised certification.
The Ballet School London offers structured classical ballet classes for primary and secondary aged children in the Bayswater area, often incorporating Trinity College London examinations. This provides a good framework for committed young dancers wanting formal recognition alongside their lessons.
- Incorporates Trinity College London exams
- Classes take place in a beautiful church setting
- Trial classes are usually available
As a hub for professional dancers, this Covent Garden location provides an inspiring, central London studio environment for experienced older kids.
Pineapple Dance Studios in Covent Garden hosts various ballet classes for older primary and secondary school children, often allowing drop-in bookings for flexibility. This studio is famous for its professional rehearsal spaces, providing a dynamic environment for committed young dancers.
- Famous central London dance hub
- Offers convenient pay-as-you-go drop-in options
- Lessons primarily for older kids and teens
This is a leading national provider focusing entirely on very young children, offering engaging introductory ballet lessons for toddlers and preschoolers.
babyballet offers fun and structured introductory ballet lessons for toddlers and preschool children across many London suburbs, including areas like Highgate. Their trademarked syllabus uses creative movement and music to introduce the very youngest dancers to ballet basics.
- Specialises in tiny tots and preschool age
- Nationwide franchise with local teachers
- Free trial classes are widely advertised
This school focuses on ISTD syllabus classes for primary and older kids, with a clear commitment to small group tuition.
Alyssia Fleur School of Dance runs ballet classes for preschool through secondary students, operating out of a NW8 location near Marylebone and another in W1U. The school follows the ISTD syllabus and keeps group sizes small for more focused attention on each child's development.
- Follows the ISTD syllabus for structure
- Small class sizes allow for individual attention
- Operates in NW8 and Marylebone locations
This organisation is known for its annual performance opportunities which allow students to experience performing on a London stage.
The London Children's Ballet offers structured ballet lessons for children from preschool age onwards, based in Battersea with weekend sessions being a specialty. A key feature is the annual performance opportunity, giving young dancers a goal to work towards throughout the term.
- Annual performance opportunity for all students
- Weekend sessions are available for convenience
- Based in the SW11 area of London
This academy runs ballet for toddlers and young children across multiple west London venues, such as Fulham, prioritising small group sizes.
The Little Dance Academy runs ballet lessons for toddlers and young primary children across several London venues, including Fulham and Chiswick, often in small groups. Their focus seems to be on creating a positive and nurturing environment for the youngest ballet students in west London.
- Small class sizes for personalised attention
- Multiple venues in West London including Fulham
- Welcomes toddlers from the youngest ages
Situated centrally in Knightsbridge, this academy offers ballet instruction for a wide age range from preschool through to teens.
Dakodas Dance Academy provides ballet lessons for preschool children up to secondary age in the Knightsbridge area, utilising a central London studio space. They offer structured training that encourages progress, with trial classes available for prospective new students to sample the style.
- Central London location near Knightsbridge
- Offers classes for all older kids' age groups
- Trial class is a good way to sample teaching style
The curriculum for primary and older kids uses the ISTD syllabus, ideal for parents seeking recognised formal structure in Knightsbridge.
Knightsbridge Ballet offers structured ballet lessons for primary and secondary aged children in the Knightsbridge area, following the ISTD syllabus. This centrally located school provides consistent, term-based classes for students keen to progress with classical technique.
- Follows the ISTD syllabus for structure
- Classes are term-based with no drop-ins
- Located in the prime Knightsbridge area
This school incorporates ISTD examination preparation alongside performance opportunities for primary and older kids across its London classes.
Inspire Ballet & Dance provides ballet lessons for preschool through to secondary aged children, with classes often leading to ISTD examinations. This provider aims to nurture a love for dance alongside technique, and offers performance opportunities for its students in London.
- Offers ISTD syllabus for structured learning
- Performance opportunities are a feature
- Trial classes are available before enrolment
A dedicated provider of kids ballet classes in the Islington area, offering ISTD syllabus lessons right from the earliest preschool years.
Regal Ballet offers delightful kids ballet classes in Islington and surrounding areas, suitable for toddlers starting from their first introduction to dance. The school uses the ISTD syllabus, providing a strong foundation for preschool and primary aged children in London.
- Offers ballet lessons for toddlers and young kids
- Uses the structured ISTD syllabus for teaching
- Multiple locations are available around London
This Ealing school integrates Royal Academy of Dance syllabus work into its primary and secondary ballet classes, preparing students for formal assessment.
The Elena Mitreva Ballet School in Ealing offers structured ballet lessons for primary and secondary age children following the respected RAD syllabus. Parents often note the welcoming atmosphere in these after-school sessions designed to build strong classical technique.
- Offers a free trial class for prospective new starters
- Exams are optional but encouraged for progress
- Classes take place at the Haven Green Baptist Church venue
A conveniently located Southwark option allowing new students to attend a trial ballet class to assess suitability before making a term commitment.
The London Academy of Dance provides comprehensive ballet classes for primary and older children in the Southwark area, focusing on developing flexibility and musicality. They welcome new students to try a class before enrolling for the full term of after-school activities.
- Trial class available for children new to the school
- Focus on building core technique in a supportive group
- Located near Waterloo and Southwark transport links
This Bayswater provider specifically caters to younger children, including toddlers, with imaginative and structured kids ballet classes.
Tippy Toes Ballet hosts imaginative kids ballet classes in Bayswater, catering specifically to toddlers and younger primary children with engaging, themed lessons. New families can book a trial session at the Porchester Centre to experience the fun environment.
- Trial class offered for children aged 18 months plus
- Focus is heavily on fun and imaginative play
- Classes held at the Porchester Centre in Bayswater
The Twickenham branch of this well-known franchise specifically targets toddlers with accessible and engaging introductory ballet lessons.
Babyballet brings its popular toddler and preschool ballet lessons to the Twickenham area, using a fun, structured syllabus for the littlest dancers. Many locations within this franchise offer a free initial class, making it easy to sample their approach to early dance education.
- Free initial class often available to try before booking
- Uses a structured, proprietary syllabus for young kids
- Covers Twickenham, Richmond, and Kingston upon Thames areas
This dedicated Twickenham school keeps its curriculum tightly focused on the 3 to 11 age range, avoiding mixed-age primary groups.
Ballet for Children offers dedicated kids ballet classes near Twickenham, structuring its curriculum specifically for preschool and primary school ages with a strong emphasis on enjoyment. Families in the area can attend a trial class to see the fun-focused teaching style.
- Trial sessions are available before committing to a term
- Classes run after school and on Saturday mornings
- A dedicated provider for younger children aged 3 to 11
This Hammersmith-based company offers advanced training with a focus on contemporary classical repertoire for older, more experienced children.
The New English Ballet Theatre, operating near Hammersmith, runs a programme focused on developing pre-professional skills for older children and young adults in ballet. This company offers a pathway for serious students interested in the contemporary classical ballet scene.
- Primarily aimed at older, more serious ballet students
- Training is often intensive and performance-based
- Classes located at The Lyric Centre in Hammersmith
The very small group size and drop-in availability make this Kentish Town option unique for older, hesitant beginners needing a casual entry point.
While primarily focused on adult beginners, Gillian Greenwood runs specific classes that may suit older secondary students looking to try ballet for the first time in Kentish Town. The small group format at Academy Mews Dance Studios ensures individual attention for new starters.
- Check age suitability as this targets adult beginners
- Offers a convenient drop-in payment option for flexibility
- Located at Academy Mews Dance Studios in Kentish Town
This Mill Hill school offers instruction in two major syllabi, RAD and Cecchetti, catering to students aiming for formal ballet examinations.
The Hendon and Mill Hill Ballet School provides structured kids ballet classes for a wide age range, utilising the facilities at Our Lady of Dolours Parish Centre. They teach both the RAD and Cecchetti methods, giving older pupils options for examination work.
- Teaches both RAD and Cecchetti examination syllabi
- Trial classes are available before enrolling for a term
- Located within the Mill Hill community area
The Clerkenwell based academy is unusual for offering pay-as-you-go drop-in options for its weekend and evening kids ballet classes.
London Dance Academy near Clerkenwell offers a broad range of dance, including ballet lessons for primary and secondary aged children in a basement studio setting. They facilitate a flexible schedule with some weekend and evening classes, and even allow for pay-as-you-go drop-in bookings.
- Offers drop-in sessions which is rare for structured classes
- Classes held in a basement space near Central Street
- Ballet is one of many styles taught here
This Putney school operates from a community church hall and prepares primary and older students for formal ballet examinations.
The Southwest School of Ballet offers ballet classes for primary through older children at the Putney Methodist Church venue in Putney. This school provides a traditional environment where pupils can work towards formal ballet examinations at the end of the year.
- Pupils have the opportunity to take formal exams
- Classes are held in the Putney Methodist Church hall
- A trial class can be arranged before committing to the term
The Maida Hill school maintains intentionally small class sizes, which is ideal for primary and secondary students wanting more individual correction.
Bluebirds Ballet School runs kids ballet classes in Maida Hill, catering to a range of ages in a setting that prioritises smaller group sizes. Parents seeking attentive instruction for their primary or secondary child in West London often find this school appealing.
- Class sizes are kept intentionally small for better feedback
- Offers a trial class option for interested new starters
- Located in the Maida Hill area of West London
Using the professional facilities at Pineapple Dance Studios, this Covent Garden provider offers flexible weekend ballet sessions with drop-in payment available.
Ballet Boost provides intensive ballet technique classes for primary and older children, conveniently located within the famous Pineapple Dance Studios in Covent Garden. This provider is notable for allowing drop-in bookings for their weekend and holiday sessions, offering flexibility.
- Drop-in payment is accepted for many of their classes
- Classes held at the well-known Pineapple Dance Studios
- Focus is on strengthening and intensive technique work
This Highgate school offers examination preparation for pupils across both the RAD and the International Dance Teachers' Association syllabi.
The Highgate Ballet School offers comprehensive kids ballet classes in Highgate, running lessons from the local United Reformed Church for all ages up to secondary level. They prepare students for formal examinations under both the RAD and IDTA syllabi, serving the North London community well.
- Offers formal exams through both RAD and IDTA boards
- Located in the Highgate area within a church hall
- Trial classes are usually available before term starts
As a major London dance venue, classes take place in professional studios within a well-known and vibrant arts organisation.
The Place in Bloomsbury is a dynamic centre for contemporary dance and performance, hosting a range of kids ballet classes and youth dance programmes. Parents can enrol their children for engaging sessions within a respected hub for the arts, often culminating in showcases.
- Offers classes across many dance styles, not just ballet
- Venue has a high profile in the London dance scene
- Check specific class schedules for age groupings
Training sessions take place within the prestigious Arts Educational Schools building in West London, offering a professional setting for kids ballet.
Elite Dancers Academy provides structured ballet lessons for children in Chiswick, often utilising the excellent facilities at ArtsEd for their training. This school suits families looking for a pathway through examinations and potential competition involvement for their young dancers.
- Check website for specific term dates and structure
- Classes focus on achieving high standards
- Trial class is available to sample the teaching style
A local West London school in Acton that focuses on solid technical foundations for primary and secondary aged children.
Acton Ballet School runs children's ballet classes from Ruskin Hall in Acton, fostering disciplined yet nurturing instruction for various age groups. This provider offers a dedicated local option for rigorous ballet training situated in West London.
- Classes follow established syllabus for progression
- Check website for current timetables in Acton
- Venue is a local church hall setting
Offers ballet instruction in Southwark with a clear emphasis on positive reinforcement and smaller class settings for better engagement.
Cariad Ballet provides personal ballet lessons for children near Southwark, taking place in a local church hall setting. This provider seems suited for parents seeking smaller group sizes for their kids ballet classes in South London.
- Focus appears to be on positive and supportive learning
- Classes are held in a community church hall
- Contact via mobile or website form for details
Represents a national standard for ballet exams, meaning local affiliated schools in Battersea and beyond adhere to a specific syllabus.
bbodance, based in Battersea, is primarily a dance examining body that certifies teachers, suggesting affiliated schools offer rigorous, graded kids ballet classes across London. While not a direct provider, it points towards recognised training pathways for serious young dancers.
- This is an examining board, not a direct class provider
- Look for schools affiliated with the BBO syllabus
- Focuses on high examination standards for ballet
A community-focused provider in Wimbledon offering structured ballet lessons in a local hall setting for young dancers.
The Wimbledon Village School of Ballet hosts children's ballet classes in Wimbledon, utilising a local church hall space for its teaching. This South West London school caters to various ages looking for structured training, possibly including exam preparation.
- Located in the pleasant Wimbledon Village area
- Offers grades based on a recognized syllabus
- Contact via mobile phone number provided
Excellent option for introducing toddlers and preschoolers to ballet in Pimlico, using imaginative play within dedicated class structures.
Tippy Toes Ballet runs dedicated kids ballet classes in Pimlico, suitable for toddlers and primary school children learning through play. The classes here are known for being fun and engaging, using imaginative themes to introduce basic ballet concepts.
- Classes are specifically designed for younger age groups
- Sessions held at Millbank Academy in Central London
- Check website for introductory offers
A long-running North London school in Hampstead focusing on ISTD graded syllabus for committed young ballet students.
Hampstead Ballet School provides traditional ballet lessons for children in North London, often following the ISTD syllabus for structured progression. Families in Hampstead can enrol their children for after-school classes focused on classical technique.
- Follows an established examination syllabus structure
- Located within the desirable Hampstead area
- Contact by phone is often the best initial route
A dedicated ballet school situated in prime Chelsea, suitable for families seeking traditional, exam-oriented ballet lessons for their children.
This Chelsea Ballet School offers formal kids ballet classes in the heart of SW3, catering to children progressing through various technical levels. The school's location in Chelsea suggests a dedicated environment for classical dance training.
- Highly central South West London location in Chelsea
- Likely follows a rigorous classical technique structure
- Check website for class times and term structure
A versatile West London school in Chiswick that integrates ballet training within a broader dance curriculum for children.
West London Dance Academy in Chiswick runs a variety of kids dance classes, including ballet for primary and secondary aged children within a multi-genre setting. This West London option allows children to explore ballet alongside other dance styles in their local area.
- Offers a variety of dance styles besides pure ballet
- Based in Chiswick with term-time schedules
- Focus on graded examination work is likely
A dedicated local dance studio in Catford, offering a non-competitive ballet foundation for children in South East London.
Petit Pas Dance Studio offers children's ballet classes in the Catford area of South East London, suitable for preschool through to secondary ages. This local studio provides a community-based approach to learning classical technique for local kids.
- Local studio based in the Catford SE6 area
- Contact via mobile number for class details
- Focuses on participation and enjoyment for all levels
A community-based North London option in Friern Barnet, offering consistent ballet training for children on a termly basis.
North London Ballet Academy hosts ballet lessons for children in Friern Barnet, using a local church space for their activities. This provider caters to young dancers in North London seeking regular, structured ballet classes throughout the term.
- Term commitment is likely required for enrolment
- Located in the Friern Barnet area of N11
- Contact via mobile is listed on the website
A well-regarded provider in Streatham, offering accessible kids ballet lessons as part of a broader dance offering in South London.
London Pro Dance runs ballet classes for children in Streatham, offering a service that appears to mix ballet with other dance forms in South London. This local provider has gained positive feedback for its children's programme near Streatham High Road.
- Classes are held in a South London location
- Check booking page for term dates and prices
- Seems to offer a mix of dance styles
Offers central London kids ballet classes in Covent Garden, suitable for families wanting instruction in the heart of the West End arts scene.
Covent Garden Dance Company runs children's ballet classes in the very central WC2 area, providing access to dance in the theatre district. This company offers structured sessions for primary and secondary aged children seeking formal dance education.
- Classes are situated in the busy Covent Garden area
- Look online for term enrolment and schedule details
- This is a professional dance company setting
This specific babyballet branch caters to the youngest dancers, with classes often starting from 18 months old for toddlers.
Enjoy fun ballet lessons for toddlers and preschoolers in Woolwich and Charlton, using a recognised franchise system for early dance education. The classes are structured to build confidence in young children through creative movement and basic ballet steps.
- Offers classes specifically for tiny tots from 18 months
- Free trial class is available before term enrolment
- Uses a badge and reward system to track progress
Emphasises an inclusive atmosphere across all age groups, providing gentle ballet lessons in the Camden Town area for beginners and beyond.
EnoDanse welcomes everyone to its ballet for all programme, running classes for both children and adults in Camden Town. The ethos is centred on enjoyment and accessible training, making it a warm environment for kids starting their ballet journey.
- Classes are held in small groups for individual attention
- Offers sessions for toddlers through to older students
- The location in Pratt Mews is a well-regarded dance space
Follows the specific Vaganova method of training, attracting families in Kensington seeking a more academically rigorous style of kids ballet classes.
This Kensington school provides structured ballet lessons rooted in the Vaganova technique for children from preschool age upwards. The classes aim to build strong foundations for those interested in pursuing ballet seriously, set in a location central to Kensington parents.
- Classes adhere to the Vaganova training method
- Offers a trial class for new students to sample instruction
- Located conveniently near Kensington High Street
It is one of the few London providers focused exclusively on boys ballet classes, supporting male dancers from an early age.
This Finsbury Park school provides dedicated ballet classes specifically for boys, from preschool age through to older secondary students. It aims to provide strong technical training while fostering a supportive environment for male dancers in London.
- Specialist school catering only to boys ballet students
- Offers classes across a wide age spectrum in North London
- Trial class available to assess suitability before commitment
Strong focus on vocational outcomes for primary and secondary students, alongside offering RAD graded examinations for recognised achievement.
This Shepherd's Bush school provides pre-vocational ballet training for primary and secondary aged dancers in West London, utilising the RAD syllabus for graded exams. Classes are structured to be demanding, preparing students for company auditions or further full-time study.
- Follows the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus for exams
- Offers intensive training for older, focused students
- Located conveniently in the Shepherd's Bush area
Offers a strong blend of structured tuition and local community feel right in central Clerkenwell, making it accessible for many central London families.
The Clerkenwell School of Ballet runs structured kids ballet classes in the heart of Clerkenwell, suitable for preschoolers through to older teens. Parents often note the warm community feel within this EC1 studio near Exmouth Market.
- A small local school with strong connections in Clerkenwell
- Offers a free introductory class for new young dancers
- Classes run after school and on weekends
A well-established local provider in Kensington that structures its primary and secondary ballet lessons around the formal Royal Academy of Dance syllabus.
This long-standing Kensington ballet school offers formal training for preschoolers through to older secondary students using the RAD syllabus. Classes are set in a traditional studio environment, appealing to families seeking recognised graded ballet achievement in West London.
- The school follows the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus
- Pre-school and primary ballet classes are popular locally
- A trial class is offered for interested new pupils
This Maida Vale provider excels at maintaining small group sizes, which is ideal for focused early years ballet lessons in West London.
Maida Vale Ballet School offers nurturing kids ballet classes for toddlers and primary children in the W9 area of Maida Vale. The teaching style emphasises strong foundational technique delivered in small group settings for maximum individual attention.
- Strong focus on small group teaching for better supervision
- Classes available for toddlers and younger primary years
- Trial sessions are readily available for first-time attendees
Delivers intensive, high-standard ballet training at The Park Club in East Acton, attracting older primary and secondary students aiming for vocational entry.
The Masters of Ballet Academy in East Acton offers intensive ballet lessons for children and teenagers aiming for high levels of achievement. Utilising premium facilities at The Park Club, the training is rigorous for dedicated primary and secondary students.
- Training is intense, geared towards pre-professional pathways
- Holds classes at The Park Club facility in East Acton
- Trial classes can be arranged for assessment
Offers a welcoming, small-group setting for ballet lessons in Hampstead, balancing technique instruction with a supportive atmosphere for primary and secondary students.
The House of Ballet teaches kids ballet classes in Hampstead within The Rec Club, catering to preschoolers and older students alike. The classes focus on building correct technique through small, supportive sessions in this North London neighbourhood.
- Small class sizes facilitate close teacher supervision
- Classes run for both younger and older children
- Check for trial session availability before booking a term
A comprehensive dance school environment in Shepherd's Bush offering graded syllabus work for children from toddler age upwards.
The West London School of Dance presents ballet lessons for children across a wide age range in Shepherd's Bush. This school offers ISTD syllabus classes alongside other dance styles, building a strong all-around foundation.
- Offers classes across the full age range
- Exams are available through the ISTD board
- Shares a location with London Vocational Ballet School
Focuses on the rigorous Vaganova ballet method for children's classes in the Wandsworth area.
L'Ecole de Ballet Classique teaches children's ballet lessons in Wandsworth, using the Vaganova training method for a strong classical base. Students participate in various productions, gaining valuable experience performing on stage.
- Utilises the structured Vaganova technique for training
- Offers performance opportunities for enrolled students
- Located in the wider Wandsworth area
A multi-arts programme that introduces ballet for children in a playful, less formal environment alongside drama and music.
Creative Arts Kids runs ballet for children alongside other performing arts, making it a vibrant choice for younger attendees across various London locations. These fun-based classes capture the imagination of preschoolers and primary kids.
- Combines ballet with other creative arts activities
- Generally focuses on fun rather than formal exams
- Operates across multiple areas in London
Offers an intimate, small group environment for kids ballet classes right in the heart of the Hackney area.
Hackney Ballet provides accessible ballet lessons for children within the Hackney community, fostering confidence and musicality. The small group sizes ensure that every child receives personal attention during their training.
- Small class sizes ensure focused teacher attention
- A local option for ballet lessons in Hackney
- Trial classes are often available upon enquiry
Provides structured ballet training with weekday evening sessions, appealing to school-aged children in West Hampstead.
Ballet Train runs structured ballet classes for children in West Hampstead, suitable for those wanting to follow a defined syllabus path. Evening and weekend sessions are available, fitting well into busy family schedules.
- Offers classes suitable for different technical levels
- Classes take place in the West Hampstead area
- A good bridge between recreational and vocational training
Dedicated babyballet classes for the youngest movers, providing a nurturing introduction to dance in South Woodford.
This is a local branch offering babyballet classes specifically for toddlers and preschoolers in the South Woodford area. The classes use a fun, creative approach to introduce very young children to basic ballet movement.
- Specialises in classes for toddlers and preschoolers
- Follows the well-known babyballet trademark structure
- Located on the High Road in South Woodford
The main training centre for the world-famous Royal Ballet School, providing elite-level ballet education near Richmond.
The Royal Ballet School's White Lodge in Richmond provides full-time, world-class vocational ballet training for older primary and secondary-aged children. This selective school offers a unique academic boarding environment for aspiring professional dancers.
- Highly selective entry via annual audition process
- Offers both boarding and day student options
- Focus is on vocational ballet training leading to careers
Reliable branch for babyballet in Wimbledon, focusing on pre-school dance and creative movement from an early age.
This Wimbledon location hosts babyballet sessions, which are perfect for introducing toddlers and preschoolers to dance in a fun way. The curriculum encourages imagination and basic movement skills suitable for very young children.
- Excellent choice for introducing dance to toddlers
- Located in the Wimbledon area on Victory Road
- Trial classes help little ones settle in
A community-focused ballet school in the Canary Wharf vicinity offering clear examination pathways through the ISTD.
MyBallet Academy offers structured ballet lessons for children in the Canary Wharf and East London area, working towards ISTD examinations. This academy aims to build strong technical foundations for all attending primary and secondary students.
- Prepares students for ISTD graded examinations
- Located in the E14 area near Canary Wharf
- Offers a trial class for assessment
An important company running training programmes in Hammersmith that actively promotes inclusion and opportunity for under-represented dancers.
Ballet Black offers programmes that champion dancers of Black and Asian descent, including classes for older primary and secondary children in Hammersmith. Their work supports diversity within the classical ballet world.
- Unique organisation championing diversity in ballet
- Classes are geared towards older, committed dancers
- Held in the Hammersmith area
Offers Royal Academy of Dance graded ballet classes for children in Ealing with a focus on nurturing development.
Prima School of Ballet provides Royal Academy of Dance graded ballet lessons for children in the Ealing area, suitable for various ages. The school maintains a friendly atmosphere while ensuring solid classical training for its students.
- Follows the RAD graded syllabus for progression
- Offers classes in the Ealing Broadway area
- A trial class is usually offered for assessment
Unique focus on holistic development alongside classical ballet technique for children, often in small group settings.
Holistic Ballet focuses on children's ballet lessons with an emphasis on well-being and mindful movement across different London locations. The small group setting supports a mindful approach to classical technique development.
- Integrates wellbeing principles into ballet teaching
- Class sizes are kept intentionally small
- Check website for current London location schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do kids ballet classes cost in London?
The price spectrum is broad. Budget options exist, sometimes found within multi-activity programmes, priced around £10 to £12 per class. The majority of dedicated local studios operate in the mid-range, typically charging between £14 and £18 per class for term bookings. Premium, audition-based schools associated with major companies will have significantly higher term fees, reflecting the intensive nature of the training.
What age can kids start ballet in London?
Classes for the very youngest movers often begin as early as 18 months or two years old, focusing heavily on creative movement and foundational listening skills. Formal, structured ballet instruction, such as syllabus preparation, generally starts around age four or five, spanning through primary and secondary school years.
What should I look for in a beginner ballet class?
For a true beginner, look for schools that allow a trial class so you can assess the teaching style. Check if the class size is small, as this allows teachers to provide necessary individual corrections. A focus on fun and imagination for younger children is often more beneficial initially than strict technical adherence.
Can my child try a ballet class before committing?
Many providers across London offer trial sessions. You will find that most studios allow a taster class, usually for a small fee or sometimes free, before requiring commitment to a full term. It is wise to verify this policy with the specific school in your chosen area.
Where in London can I find kids ballet classes?
There is excellent coverage across the city. Central areas like the West End and Clerkenwell have many options, often in professional studios. West London areas such as Ealing, Chiswick, and Hammersmith have a strong presence of mid-range and intensive schools, while North London areas like Highgate and Hampstead also host several established local providers.
Should I look for syllabus specific classes like RAD or ISTD?
This depends on your goal. If you seek formal recognition, look for schools explicitly stating they follow the Royal Academy of Dance or ISTD syllabus, which prepares students for graded exams. If the goal is general fitness and fun, many schools focus on creative or technical foundations without the pressure of formal grading.
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