Highgate Ballet School is a ballet school in the Highgate area of north London, teaching classical dance to children and young people. It follows the Cecchetti method and takes students through graded levels as they progress. Families looking for a nurturing yet properly structured ballet education tend to find it a natural fit.
Parents describe long, happy associations with the school, with children staying for many years and advancing through the grades. Teaching is warm and patient while holding to a high standard, and touches such as live classical piano add real character to the classes. It suits younger dancers and committed students who value both encouragement and discipline.
The curriculum follows the Cecchetti syllabus, guiding students from early years up through advanced grades in classical ballet. This kind of structured teaching gives the sort of grounding that underpins the best ballet classes london has to offer. While the school centres on young dancers, the wider city offers dance classes in london and adult dance classes london for those studying later in life.
A child new to the school can expect a kind, attentive introduction, with the youngest classes especially geared to building confidence. Simple, comfortable dancewear and soft ballet shoes are the usual requirement, and staff can advise on exactly what is needed for a given class.
The school meets in a community setting in the Highgate neighbourhood of north London. As with any first visit, it helps to confirm the easiest way to get there in advance.
My son has been learning at HBS for the last 5+ years and he has matured from a keen young dancer to a teenager who continues to enjoy ballet in the Grade 6 and Advanced classes. Miss Julie is patient and highly experienced as a Cecchetti teacher, and she marries her high standards with a gentle way of teaching to great effect.— Cynthia Wei
My girls have been learning ballet at HBS for more than 10 years. They enjoy the high standard of teaching and the challenge of the Cecchetti syllabus. More importantly, they love their teachers, Miss Julie, Miss Maddy & Miss Valerie, who have been kind and supportive throughout.— A Lacy
My daughter started when she was 3 and has grown in confidence and control. The joy of having live classical piano to dance to has been so delightful. A really nurturing atmosphere for the younger ones too.— Liz Haynes
Yes, adults can take up ballet successfully, though this particular school focuses on children and young people. Adult beginners will find dedicated classes elsewhere across London.
For enjoyment and steady improvement, ballet has no cut-off age. Early training matters chiefly for those aiming at professional careers.
Salsa is a popular first choice thanks to its simple, repeating basic step. Bachata is another gentle option for those who prefer a slower rhythm.
It is, because most Latin dances rest on a handful of patterns that newcomers grasp quickly. The lively, sociable setting also makes learning feel easy.
Around two to three months is usually enough to prepare a confident first dance. For a fuller routine, start sooner and let a specialist teacher guide the timing.
Most couples perform one first dance, though some add a second song or a playful finish. It really depends on how much you want to rehearse.