Graded Ballet Classes in Islington, Clapton & Stoke Newington


Set your child on the path to ballet excellence with our graded ballet classes in Islington, also available in Clapton and Stoke Newington. At Ballet North, we follow the internationally recognised IDTA syllabus, offering structured, engaging ballet training for young dancers working through Grade 1 ballet to Grade 5 ballet.

Led by experienced teachers, our classes support technical growth, artistic development, and performance confidence in a warm, inclusive environment.

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✔Grade 1 to Grade 5 Ballet
✔ IDTA-aligned syllabus & exam preparation
✔ Annual performances in professional theatres
✔ Qualified & inclusive instructors
✔ Small group sizes & individual support
✔ Venues across Islington, Clapton, and Stoke Newington
✔ Trusted by local families since 2012



Why Choose Graded Ballet at Ballet North?


Whether your child is entering ballet training for fun or in a formal manner, graded ballet offers a formal structure where dancers can thrive in a welcoming, motivating environment.


✓ Structured progression through Grades 1–5, aligned with IDTA standards
✓ Supportive, experienced teachers committed to personal growth
✓ Small class sizes to ensure individual attention and tailored guidance
✓  Performance opportunities at professional London venues
✓ Detailed feedback to prepare students for both exams and stage work
✓  Seamless class placement following our Preparatory and Primary Ballet levels
Inclusivity and accessibility remain at the heart of our teaching, ensuring every child feels empowered to shine.

Understanding Graded Ballet – What Do the Grades Mean?


Graded ballet provides a structured and progressive framework for children to develop both technically and artistically. At Ballet North, we follow the International Dance Teachers’ Association (IDTA) syllabus, which is globally recognised for its quality and clarity.

These graded ballet classes are perfect for children who have progressed beyond beginner levels and are ready for more formal training. Each level builds on the last, developing coordination, musicality, expression and confidence.

At the same time, our classes remain inclusive and welcoming, making them ideal for children who want to enjoy ballet just for fun without the pressure of exams.


Grade 1 Ballet

Age Guide: Usually from 7 years+, depending on ability

  • Entry-level graded class following Primary Ballet
  • Focuses on posture, turnout, balance, and basic alignment
  • Introduces terminology (plié, tendu, jeté) and musical awareness
  • Develops rhythm and memory through set exercises
  • Lays a strong technical foundation for future grades

Ideal for: Students transitioning from Primary Ballet, or those with basic ballet experience.
Grade 2 Ballet

Age Guide: Typically from 8–9 years+

  • Expands on Grade 1 vocabulary and introduces more complex combinations
  • Stronger emphasis on use of arms, head placement, and coordination
  • Exercises now include both barre and centre work
  • Children begin learning sequences with direction changes and musical phrasing

Ideal for: Dancers ready for more structure and performance polish.
Grade 3 Ballet

Age Guide: Usually 9–11 years+, depending on experience

  • Introduces more mature movements, including controlled adage and faster allegro steps
  • Focuses on strength, musical interpretation, and sustained balance
  • Combines artistry with technique, encouraging expression
  • Prepares students for performance opportunities and longer combinations

Ideal for: Committed young dancers ready to refine their style.
Grade 4 Ballet

Age Guide: Generally 13 years+

  • Increased stamina required for more complex sequences
  • Students learn travelled pirouettes, extended allegro combinations, and performance-focused skills
  • Strong focus on turnout, fluidity, and body alignment
  • Prepares students for public performances or exam presentations

Ideal for: Dancers considering progression towards pre-professional ballet or other dance disciplines.
Grade 5 Ballet

Age Guide: Often 14 years+, depending on progression

  • Pre-professional level, preparing dancers for vocational or performance pathways
  • Includes advanced barre work, complex centre practice, and refined adage and allegro
  • Students develop artistic expression and discipline suitable for stage performance
  • May be used to prepare for intermediate vocational training or GCSE/A-Level dance

Ideal for: Dedicated students aiming for excellence in classical ballet.

Locations & Venues
We teach graded ballet at well-equipped, welcoming venues in North London:

  • St. Mary’s Church Hall, Upper Street, Islington N1 2TX
  • St. James’ Church, Packington Street, Islington N1 8RD
  • Hackney Showroom, Murrain Road, Stoke Newington N4 2BN
  • Round Chapel, Powerscroft Road, Clapton E5 0PU
  • FieldWorks Dance, 274 Richmond Road, London Fields, London E8 3QW

All venues are DBS-compliant, risk-assessed, and accessible by public transport. We also teach in local primary schools through after-school partnerships.

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Pricing & Trial Options
We keep our pricing transparent and competitive to ensure dance is accessible for every family:

  • Trial class: £8
  • Grade 1–5 weekday classes: £16.70 per session
  • Grade 1–5 weekend classes: £17.85 per session
  • Full term pricing available upon request

All IDTA exam fees are optional and invoiced separately.

View Full Pricing | View Term Date

    Proudly Serving North London Families

Classes available in:
St. Mary’s,
Islington Upper St, N1 2TX
Classes
St. James,
Islington 42 Packington St, N1 8RD
Classes
Round Chapel,
Clapton Powerscroft Rd, E5 0PU
Classes
Hackney Showroom,
Stoke Newington 4 Murrain Road, N4 2BN
Classes
Fieldworks,
London Fields 274 Richmond Rd, E8 3QW
Classes

Real Results, Real Joy



“My son was very worried about doing the trial, but had the best time. Both the dancers and the teacher made him feel so welcome and un-selfconscious! Thank you.”
— Sophie (Grade 1 parent)
“You helped instill the love of dance in my child from before she could even walk and it’s a testament to you and everyone at Ballet North for providing such a wonderful space for us parents and our little ones who love to dance”
— Kellie (Parent and Toddler parent)

“Just wanted to say how much my daughter is enjoying the class. Her teacher is wonderful and she loves seeing him. She is improving each week thanks to him”
— Katy (Preparatory parent)
“It was amazing to see how my child has progressed under your supervision and tuition, so very nice to see her holding her own and following all the routines. Thank you!”
— Oliver (Primary parent)



Schedule & How to Join

We offer weekday and weekend graded ballet classes at flexible times across our venues.

Getting started is simple:

✓ Call us on 0787 068 5596 to find the right grade for your child
Book a low-cost trial class
✓ Enrol for the term via our secure online booking system
✓ Get started - no uniform required for your first class!

View All Classes | See Our Students in Action

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know which grade my child should join?
Our team can assess your child’s current ability and suggest the right starting point. Children progressing from Primary Ballet will typically begin with Grade 1.

Q: Is there an exam at every grade level?
Exams are optional and not required for progression. We support each student at their own pace, with or without formal assessment.

Q: What does my child need to wear?
Girls: black leotard, pink tights, ballet skirt, pink ballet shoes.
Boys: black leggings or shorts, white top, black ballet shoes.
All uniform items are available through our Uniform Shop.

Q: Can we change class times if needed?
Yes, we offer classes across multiple venues and are happy to accommodate changes when possible.

Q: Are graded classes suitable for beginners?
If your child is new to ballet, we recommend starting with Preparatory Ballet or Primary Ballet before progressing to graded levels.

Start Your Graded Ballet Journey Today



We believe every child deserves the chance to grow through dance. Whether your child is preparing for Grade 1 ballet or advancing to Grade 5 ballet, we’re here to support their unique journey.

Serving families in Islington, Clapton, Stoke Newington, and London Fields

Call us on 07862135866
Email: info@balletnorth.co.uk
Classes in Islington, Clapton & Stoke Newington

Office Hours

10am – 2pm Weekdays

info@balletnorth.co.uk

07870685596


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