Buckingham Dance Studios is a long-running dance school based in Paignton, teaching children from the very youngest ages right through to more advanced pupils. Families across the town come here for ballet and a broad mix of dance genres taught with real care. It suits parents looking for a school where a shy first-timer can grow into a confident performer over the years.
Parents describe a nurturing setting where children genuinely look forward to each week, with teaching that draws out confidence over months and years rather than rushing it. Several families have had multiple children pass through, some for a decade or more, which speaks to the consistency of the instruction. The atmosphere blends encouragement with proper technical standards.
Ballet sits at the heart of the timetable, alongside teaching across several other genres of dance for a range of ages and stages. Pupils have opportunities to perform at local theatre shows and to take part in dance festivals and competitions, so there is scope to progress well beyond a first class. For those searching for dance classes in Paignton or line dancing in Paignton, it is worth asking directly about which styles run for which age groups. Younger children can begin from around toddler age and build steadily as they grow.
A newcomer can expect a warm reception and a class pitched to their age and ability, with no pressure to keep pace with anyone else. Comfortable clothing you can move freely in is sensible for a first session, and the school can advise on any ballet shoes or kit once a child settles in. It is a good idea to arrive a few minutes early to meet the teacher.
The studios are located in Paignton, within reach of the surrounding Torbay area, with the school able to advise on the easiest way to find them.
Highly recommend Buckingham dance studios my son Harrison started here at 3 years old and still always looks forward to his ballet class, he also takes part in the festivals and it has been amazing to see how his confidence has grown. I have now started my 2 year old daughter Lily in ballet due to being so impressed with how Harrison has grown into such a confident young man. All the teachers make you feel really welcome a wonderful place to learn the art of dance and become part of a real team.— Patrick Forbear
My daughter has been dancing at Buckingham Dance Studios for over 5 years now. I've watched her confidence grow and grow, from starting dance as a very shy little girl, to thoroughly enjoying performing on stage at the Princess Theatre and competing at the dance festival competitions in group and solo dances. She enjoys every minute and loves being part of a great team at Buckingham Dance Studios.— Katie Forbes
My three girls all attend Buckingham Dance studio and absolutely love it ! My eldest daughter has attended for 12 years and has excelled !Not only in ballet ,where she attended the royal ballet associate program for 6 years,but excellent teaching in all genres of dance! The teachers are friendly with a wealth of experience! I couldn’t recommend this dance school enough!— james impey
Happy— Scotty Forbes
Common building blocks include the grapevine, the step-touch, the kick-ball-change, the pivot turn and the shuffle. Most line dances simply string a handful of these together, so once you know the basics you can pick up new routines quickly.
Simple, repetitive dances such as the Electric Slide are usually the gentlest place to start because they use only a few steps repeated in each wall. A beginner-friendly class will build you up from there at a comfortable pace.
Yes, plenty of dance is danced solo, and many group classes are designed so no partner is needed. Ballet and much of what is taught here can be learnt entirely on your own.
Comfortable clothing that lets you move freely and flat, supportive shoes are all you need at first. The school can suggest anything more specific, such as ballet shoes, once you have started.
Fees vary with the style, the length of the class and whether you pay per session or per term. It is best to contact the studio directly for current pricing.
For children, ballet is a strong foundation because it builds posture, coordination and musicality that carry into other styles. The best choice ultimately depends on what your child enjoys, so ask which beginner classes are running.