When it comes to dance lessons for children, ballet is an amazing choice for teaching foundational skills.
From around the age of two, children can start to learn ballet, and this classic form of dance can do wonders for their development. Ballet requires discipline, dedication and concentration, which are all important to learn during the early years.
What’s more, the posture, poise and grace of movement that ballet teaches mean that these lessons are a fun, expressive opportunity to get active, as well as a natural way to develop coordination and cognitive abilities.
As an added bonus, the costumes, creativity and chance to perform are also simply a wonderful way for your little ones to enjoy themselves.
You might find that ballet lessons turn into a serious passion, or that they might lead to the discovery and enjoyment of other types of dance.
As you can see, there are many fantastic reasons to enrol your children in ballet. For those in South London, the following classes come highly recommended!
1. Knightsbridge Ballet
Ages: 3 – 17 year olds
Areas: Knightsbridge, Fulham, Chelsea, Westminster
Knightsbridge Ballet offers classic ballet training for children of all ages and experience levels, with specialist classes available for those who want to pursue ballet as a career.
All of the instructors are certified by the Royal Academy of Dance, and class sizes are limited to ensure that everyone gets the attention they need.
Knightsbridge Ballet reviews: what parents say
“Having sunny, smiley and encouraging teachers around the children, who teach with such knowledge, experience and capability is all you could ever ask for.” – Charlotte.
Where to book Knightsbridge Ballet classes
Find a Knightsbridge class on Loopla here or visit their website for more info.
2. Moone School of Ballet
Ages: 3 – 7+ year olds
Areas: Fulham SW6 3LQ, SW6 3TD, SW6 7JS
The Moone School of Ballet prioritises offering friendly and enjoyable classes for children while still providing a professional, globally recognised syllabus.
All children are encouraged to have fun and learn new skills, and those with special talents are offered full guidance and support to achieve their full potential.
Moone School of Ballet reviews: what parents say
“The classes are fantastically structured holding their attention through imaginative journeys. Highly recommend!” – Marike.
Where to book Moone School of Ballet classes
Find a Moone School of Ballet class on Loopla here or visit their website for more info.
3. The Little Dance Academy
Ages: 3 – 7 year olds
Areas: Wimbledon, Chelsea, Fulham
The Little Dance Academy offers a range of dance classes for children, such as ballet, tap and hip hop, with sessions available across London.
The teachers focus on creating a supportive environment for young children to develop at their own pace.
The Little Dance Academy reviews: what parents say
“Our daughter loves her classes with the LDA, and as parents, we are continually impressed by their communications and the thoughtful attention that is paid to individual children. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend!” – Caroline.
Where to book The Little Dance Academy ballet classes
Visit the The Little Dance Academy’s website to book and for more information.
4. La Sylvaine & Wendy Bell School of Dance
Ages: 3 – 8 year olds
Areas: Battersea, Chelsea, Fulham, Kensington, South Kensington, Parsons Green
La Sylvaine & Wendy Bell School of Dance has been teaching ballet for more than 80 years, and several of the teachers are successful professional performers.
In addition to ballet, this school also offers tap and contemporary dance.
La Sylvaine & Wendy Bell reviews: what parents say
“La Sylvaine ballet school is amazing on every level. Its teachers are all talented professionals who nurture the dancer in every child. My daughter couldn’t be dancing in a better place.” – Maggie.
Where to book La Sylvaine & Wendy Bell School of Dance classes
Visit the La Sylvaine & Wendy Bell School of Dance website to book and for more information.
5. The South London Dance Academy
Ages: 2.5 – 14+ year olds
Areas: East Dulwich, Nunhead
The South London Dance Academy aims to encourage children of all ages and abilities to enjoy dance in a friendly environment.
With a focus on inclusive teaching that motivates and inspires, this academy provides a variety of different lessons. Students also have the option to go on regular trips to enjoy professional performances.
The South London Dance Academy reviews: what parents say
“A lovely dance school with an amazing, friendly environment. Standard of teaching is impeccable, and teachers really care about students” – Grace.
Where to book The South London Dance Academy ballet classes
Visit The South London Dance Academy website to book and for more information.
Find ballet classes near you: search ballet
6. Central School of Ballet
Ages: 3 – 11+ year olds
Areas: South Bank
Through the Central School of Ballet, dance classes are available at every stage, from lessons for three-year-olds up to undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
The ethos of this school revolves around fostering an inclusive community feel where everyone is welcome.
Central School of Ballet reviews: what parents say
“Stunning space with beautiful studios! Great location also!” – Sarah.
Where to book Central School of Ballet classes
Visit the Central School of Ballet website to book and for more information.
7. McAlpine Dance
Ages: 4 – 7+ year olds
Areas: Croydon, Cambewell
McAlpine Dance has been providing ballet lessons for over 50 years. All ages and abilities are welcome here, with classes starting at toddler age and continuing all the way up to the Silver Swans.
In addition to ballet, students can also get involved in contemporary dance and drama lessons.
McAlpine Dance reviews: what parents say
“Superb in every respect: encouraging, friendly, witty, untiring expertise. As a teacher myself, I have seen many who teach, but none better! MacAlpine Dance will transform you in the most gentle and fun way.” – George.
Where to book McAlpine Dance ballet classes
Visit the McAlpine Dance website to book and for more information.
8. ABC Ballet School
Ages: 2.5 – 12 year olds
Areas: Furzedown
At the ABC Ballet School, the most important part of lessons is to learn new skills, build confidence and embrace imagination. The school makes an extra effort to be a part of the local community by regularly attending and hosting events and performances.
ABC Ballet School reviews: what parents say
“Just fantastic, been doing it since I was 3, I am now nearly 18. Miss Alison is truly wonderful and helpful.” – Freya.
“Can’t wait for the ballet show this weekend which is always a great pleasure to watch as a parent” – Bronnie.
Where to book ABC Ballet School classes
Visit the ABC Ballet School website to book and for more information.
9. Angelina Jandolo Dance School
Ages: 3 – 5+ year olds
Areas: North Dulwich, Blackheath, Eltham, Greenwich
The Angelina Jandolo Dance School has an impressive 100% pass rate for those who enter into exams, but it also creates a space for children to simply enjoy dancing for fun.
All of the ballet lessons at this school are led by teachers who have performed professionally and are dedicated to passing on this passion to others.
Angelina Jandolo Dance School reviews: what parents say
“Having never tried ballet before, my 13-year-old daughter decided to start lessons 18 months ago. Angelina and the class teachers have been incredibly supportive and she has learnt so much during that time.
They are encouraging, kind and have a great deal of expertise and experience.” – Cara.
Where to book Angelina Jandolo Dance School classes
Find an Angelina Jandolo Dance School class on Loopla here or visit their website for more info.
10. Dakoda’s Dance Academy
Ages: 3 – 12+ year olds
Areas: Knightsbridge, Chelsea
In addition to ballet, Dakoda’s Dance Academy offers lessons in a wide range of dance styles, as well as drama, singing, piano lessons and more.
The primary goal of this academy is to teach young people to love and appreciate dance long into the future.
Dakoda’s Dance Academy reviews: what parents say
“I 100% recommend Dakoda`s Dance Academy, my daughter loves dancing there, the teachers are so friendly and dedicate time to each child- praising and helping out wherever needed.” – Mike.
Where to book Dakoda’s Dance Academy ballet classes
Find a Dakoda’s Dance Academy class on Loopla here or visit their website for more info.
11. Royal Academy of Dance
Ages: 4 – 16 year olds
Areas: Battersea
The Royal Academy of Dance is an internationally-recognised school that was established over 100 years ago.
Be aware that drop-in sessions are not available at the Royal Academy of Dance. To take ballet lessons at this prestigious school, students must first make an application and then be added to a waiting list.
Royal Academy of Dance reviews: what parents say
“Amazing place to learn dance and ballet. Highly recommended to everyone. Very professional staff.” – Anna.
Where to book Royal Academy of Dance ballet classes
Visit the Royal Academy of Dance website to book and for more information.
What Are the Benefits of Ballet for Children?
Ballet is a fantastic way for children to have fun and exercise while also developing their focus and enjoying a social activity.
The coordination and balance required by ballet will encourage children to learn how to move their bodies and naturally develop their muscles and physical health as they go.
Ballet is also an excellent chance to perform in front of other people, which can help build self-esteem and confidence from an early age.