Lisa Hunter, who once trained under Mary-Jane Duckworth FISTD and graduated from The Royal Ballet School Teacher's Training Course, heads The Oundle School of Ballet. She’s been running the show since 2005. Set in Oundle, Northamptonshire, this place has a solid 50-year history of top-notch ballet, jazz, and contemporary dance training.
The school focuses mainly on classical ballet, using the Cecchetti Method, and welcomes kids as young as three. From five, youngsters can start taking their ISTD Cecchetti Classical Ballet exams. Apart from ballet, the school also runs jazz and contemporary dance sessions.
Contemporary dance classes offer a more relaxed and personal way to move compared to ballet. These classes are open to anyone 11 and above, and Anoushka Charles from In-Sync Dance Company runs them. They’re on Thursdays from 5:45 pm to 7:00 pm, costing £96 per term.
If you’re into musical theatre, the jazz dance classes are spot on. Jazz is key for theatrical dance, covering styles like musical theatre, lyrical, and Fosse. Imogen Breen, a professional dancer, teacher, and choreographer, leads these sessions.
Classes are held at the custom-built studio in Fletton House, Glapthorn Road, Oundle (PE8 4JA). Many sessions feature live piano accompaniment, helping students sharpen their rhythm and musical sensitivity.
Class sizes are kept small to ensure individual attention, so getting on the waiting list early is a good shout. Parents can watch a class each term, and private lessons are available if needed.
Fees are term-based and vary by class level. Beginners pay £50 per term (1 × 1/2 hour a week), Primary to Standard 1 cost £75 per term (1 × 3/4 hour a week), and Lower Junior to Senior Ballet is £85 per term (1 hour a week). Extra costs include exam classes and show costume hire, with a 20% sibling discount.
The Oundle School of Ballet is all about providing quality dance training in a supportive setting. Whether kids aim to go pro or just want to enjoy dance, this is the place to be. Visit their website or contact them directly to get involved.