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From Year 3, students at Karen Blackburn Dance Academy in Hook can choose from a broader range of classes and development pathways. This allows each dancer to build a programme suited to their interests, progress and level of commitment.

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Classical ballet training includes the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus alongside the second year of The Royal Ballet School’s Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme (ATAP Level 1). Students develop classical technique, musicality, performance and movement understanding, with opportunities to explore repertoire and choreography.

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ISTD Tap and Modern classes build on the foundations established in the Junior School. As students progress, they develop clearer technique, greater strength and coordination, more complex rhythm and a stronger understanding of performance and style.

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Additional classes include RAD Musical Theatre, Street Dance, ISTD Modern, Jazz and Acrobatic Arts. Our Acro programme develops strength, flexibility, control and safe technique through progressive training. Students work towards skills appropriate to their individual experience and physical readiness, from foundational rolls and cartwheels through to more advanced balances and travelling movements.

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Students attending the required ballet training may be considered for RAD Ballet examinations when their teacher feels they are technically and physically ready. Examinations are one possible route through KBDA and are not the only measure of progress.

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Selected Sunday workshops and intensives offer further opportunities to work with different teachers, explore new styles and develop technical or performance skills.

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From Year 3, students may focus on examinations, performance opportunities or a combination of both. Our role is to help each dancer find a pathway that provides appropriate challenge while supporting their longer-term development.