Dance Venture Courses and Classes

Ballet Club	Jazz Programme
Twinkle Toes	Tap Programme
Challenge Programme 1	Teen and Adult Programme in Dance
Challenge Programme 2	Dance Venture Handbook

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Ballet Club

An innovation in 2002 Ballet Club is an exciting new programme designed as an introduction to all aspects of ballet for students of all ages who want to experience ballet for enjoyment, fitness and health. It also provides a thorough grounding in the basics for students wishing to take an RAD Graded Examination. The programmes are designed for fun whilst giving students an understanding of the principles of dance and movement. A balanced, carefully planned programme of study is provided by teachers who have a sound understanding of the principles of movement and fundamentals of Classical Ballet. Classes offered are enthusiastically and sympathetically taught with the student's needs as a central basis. Divided into separate levels club members are expected to keep a diary/workbook to help keep track of activities planned throughout the year.

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Twinkle Toes (ages 3 - 5)

This programme, although based on classical steps and music, is purely an introduction to dance and free movement. The emphasis is on exploring movement, gaining self-confidence and learning to listen to music and follow directions. Children learn to work within a group, share and take turns. Various basic learning concepts are incorporated into enjoyable dance routines.

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Challenge Programme 1

Students who wish to sit for a Graded Examination (formerly Grades Exams) must enrol in the syllabus class appropriate for their Grade level. Children must also be enrolled in Ballet Club 1, 2 or 3. Our teaching is based on the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus. The syllabus has been devised with great care so it progresses a child in stages demanding no more of a young body than it can cope with. It is fun for children to dance and helps to develop co-ordination, fitness and a sense of rhythm, musicality and expression as well as promoting self-discipline and boosting self-confidence. Emphasis in the syllabus classes will be on preparation for examinations and achievement of a high level of skill in both technique and performance. Students will be encouraged to participate in RAD competitions, scholarship classes and auditions and other productions.

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Challenge Programme 2

Boys and girls over the age of 11 who wish to study ballet more seriously possibly with a view to pursuing a career in dance or dance teaching may follow the Academy's Vocational Graded Examinations in Dance (formerly Majors) Syllabus. It develops technique, strength and artistry to the very highest levels producing dancers who can then adapt with ease to the demands of any dance style.

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Jazz Programme

Our jazz programme is structured into three classes: junior, intermediate and senior. Classes are centred on enjoyment, fun and fitness rather than competitive dancing and exams, (though each class will present the dances that they have learnt throughout the year at mid-year and end of year concerts.) We accept children from beginners to advanced levels, developing their rhythm and general co-ordination skills in a relaxed and fun environment

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Tap Programme

Our tap programme also has three levels - junior, intermediates and senior, focussing on teaching the fundamentals of tap; (technique, rhythm and timing). The emphasis for these classes is based squarely upon correct tapping techniques and fitness (including a warm-up and exercises). Children work towards a tap dance that will be performed at the mid-year and end of year concerts.

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Teen and Adult Programme in Dance (age 17 upwards)

Classes in ballet and jazz are offered once or twice a week as required for personal enjoyment, overall fitness and increased self-confidence. For those interested there are some performance opportunities. All classes are taught by specialist teachers.

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Dance Venture Handbook

More detailed information about our courses may be found in the Dance Venture Handbook. This is a handy reference for all enrolled Dance Venture students with information on exam requirements, performance opportunities, concerts, important dates throughout the year and much more.

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Last updated: 25 January 2008