Seniors (13+years)

Our Senior Dance classes are designed for students aged 13+ who are ready to take their training to the next level. At this stage, dancers refine their technique, strength, and artistry across a range of styles, while developing the maturity and discipline needed for more advanced work. Classes encourage individuality and self-expression alongside technical excellence, with opportunities to explore complex choreography, performance skills, and creative projects.

Whether students are dancing for enjoyment or aspiring towards further vocational training, our senior programme provides a supportive environment where they can challenge themselves, grow in confidence, and discover their full potential as versatile performers.

We are pleased to offer Levels 1–3 of the Royal Ballet School Affiliate Training Programme with the view of offering level 4-6 in the future.

Miss Anne and Miss Bev are both thrilled to be recognised as Affiliate Teachers of The Royal Ballet School.

The Affiliate Programme consists of six levels, each with recommended age groups. Content is based on The Royal Ballet School’s Model for Optimal Dance Training, with each level containing both movement and contextual studies.

Our Bideford classes will take place on Thursdays from 6:30–8:00pm. Attendance is by application only.

To express your interest, please email [email protected].

The Royal Ballet School is recognised worldwide as a leader in ballet education, training exceptional dancers for The Royal Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, and other leading companies across the globe. Through the affiliate programme the School extends its renowned System of Training to recreational dance teachers, raising the standard of ballet teaching and opening up new opportunities for students everywhere.

What this means for our dancers:

A world-class foundation – Students will learn to refine classical ballet vocabulary and develop strong, safe technique.

Dance as an art form – Classes will include contextual studies appropriate to each age level, exposure to repertoire, and opportunities to explore choreography and performance.

Exclusive resources & opportunities – Through a direct link with The Royal Ballet School, students will gain access to unique materials and experiences not available elsewhere.

A lifelong love of dance – the programme is designed not only to build technical skill, but also to foster artistry, creativity, and enjoyment.

Ballet Grades 5+

For ages 13+ years

At this level, students enter the senior grades of the BBODance Ballet syllabus, where technical refinement and artistry become the focus of training. Dancers work towards greater strength, precision, and control, developing a deeper understanding of ballet vocabulary and movement quality. Classes challenge students with more complex sequences, pointe work (where appropriate), and expressive performance, while continuing to nurture musicality and creativity. Alongside physical progression, students gain discipline, resilience, and confidence, preparing them for both examinations and performance opportunities.

These classes provide a strong platform for those aspiring to vocational training as well as a rewarding and enriching experience for students who wish to pursue ballet as a lifelong passion.

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Tap Grades 5+

At this level, students progress into the senior grades of the BBODance Tap syllabus, where technical detail and performance quality are brought to the forefront. Dancers refine clarity, speed, and precision in their footwork while tackling more complex rhythms, syncopation, and intricate combinations.

Classes encourage versatility by exploring a range of tap styles and dynamics, developing both individual artistry and ensemble performance skills.

Alongside advancing their technique, students build stamina, musical sensitivity through rhythm. These classes provide a solid foundation for those considering further training, while also offering a vibrant and rewarding experience for students who simply love to dance

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Musical Theatre Grade 5+

At this level, students begin to develop their skills in singing, dancing, and acting through the senior grades of the BBODance Musical Theatre syllabus and the sampling of mini musical theatre productions.

Classes focus on vocal technique, choreography, and characterisation, while also building stagecraft skills such as projection, timing, and ensemble work. Students explore a wide range of repertoire and performance styles, encouraging versatility and a deeper understanding of storytelling through song and movement.

Alongside technical progression, classes nurture creativity, confidence, and professionalism, preparing students for examinations, stage opportunities, and, if they choose, further vocational training. These classes provide an inspiring environment where young performers can challenge themselves, collaborate, and truly shine on stage.

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Contemporary With Rambert Grades

Our Senior Contemporary classes follow the Rambert Grades syllabus, offering progressive training that is firmly rooted in professional practice. At this level, students go beyond technical foundations to explore the artistry and individuality that contemporary dance celebrates.

Through the study of professional repertory works, dancers gain insight into the styles and creative approaches of internationally renowned choreographers, building performance skills and a deeper understanding of contemporary technique. Alongside this, students develop their own creative voice through choreographic tasks, composition, and improvisation, learning to generate original movement and refine their artistry.

With a focus on expression, collaboration, and individuality, Rambert Grades encourages dancers to see themselves not only as performers but as emerging dance artists. These classes challenge and inspire students, equipping them with transferable skills such as creativity, resilience, and confidence, while nurturing a lifelong passion for contemporary dance.

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FAQ'S

Can my child try a class before enrolling?

Absolutely! We offer a 4-week trial for just £20. Think of it like a class pass, your child can try as many classes in their age group as they like during those four weeks. It’s a great way for them to explore, find their favourites, and settle in before choosing the right class for them.

Absolutely! We offer free trial classes every week. Just book online or give us a call.

What should my child wear to class?

Comfortable clothing like leggings, joggers, or shorts with a t-shirt is perfect for moving freely. We will do our best to find a pair of dance shoes they can borrow while they settle in.

Comfy clothes they can move in! Barefoot or sneakers are fine for most beginner classes.

Do you hold performances or showcases?

Yes! We celebrate with an informal end-of-year showcase, plus a spectacular biannual school production at the Queen’s Theatre in Barnstaple. Our performance company also shines at community events throughout the year.