Eminence Dance Academy's Frequently Asked Questions

⭐️Q: How old does my child need to be to start ballet lessons?

✨A: 3 years old. Children who are happy to dance independently, without the support of a parent. We can be flexible with age, for example, an eagerly confident child who is independent before they are 3 years old.

⭐️Q: Which grade should my child be in if they are under 7 years old?

✨A: This depends on both age and ability. The preparatory level is Pre-Primary Ballet, aimed at children between 3-5 years old. Once they have a good foundation they can progress onto Primary ballet, this is designed for dancers 5-7 years old. Following this grade, age is no longer a factor and it is based on the teacher's professional opinion on the individual child's ability.

⭐️Q: Which grade should my child be if they are over 8? Is there an age limit?

✨A: If your child starts ballet over the age of 8 you will need to discuss this with Miss Emilie. Your child will be assessed in an appropriate class depending on their age group and their ability/experience. Please do not compare your child to other children.

There is no age limit ; EDA has silver swans classes for 50 years and over. 

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⭐️Q: Can my child transfer into the same grade as they were studying at another dance school?

✨A: Potentially yes, however, we like to make sure each child is in a class that they are competent in and feel confident to be in. Not all dance schools follow the set rules of the Royal Academy of Dance and this will be considered when joining EDA. Please be aware your child's dance development is always of utmost importance to us.

⭐️Q: My child wants to go on pointe. How long will this take?

✨A: No child is the same. An individual's passion, drive and work ethic will be the deciding factor in many areas of dance. A child must be at least 12 years old and over, but this isn't a marking point - they may have to wait until 15 years old or older - some may never have this option, but will find other areas to excel in. Bone development in the metatarsals and ankle are a huge focus point, along with core stability and muscle development. Eminence Dance Academy has a pre-pointe assessment that every child must pass before they have the green light to invest in their first pair of pointe shoes. NEVER PURCHASE POINTE SHOES WITHOUT A QUALIFIED TEACHERS PERMISSION. The vocational levels are the only classes that incorporate pointe work. We recommend attending Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) to speed up development. Please note: if your child has worn pointe shoes at their previous school, it does not mean the will automatically be able to wear them with us. Every child must complete the pre-pointe assessment (feedback is given on areas to work on).

⭐️Q: What is the difference between ballet grades, vocational and PBT?

✨A: Grades (Pre-Primary - Grade 8) build the skills needed to become a well rounded ballet dancer. Each grade is a progression on from the previous, therefore the skills in the previous grade need to be mastered to seamlessly develop. Grades 6 - 8 & vocational levels are an introduction to pre-professional training with more complex and challenging combinations (passing these grades count as UCAS points). Vocational & Advanced grades include pointe work. Progressing Ballet Technique is an additional conditioning class including pilates and circuit training aimed at ballerinas, although a fantastic programme for all dancers.