About This Class

Chelsea Ballet Schools adopts the esteemed Cecchetti method to nurture and develop our young dancers. Originating from Italy, this Classical Ballet technique provides a comprehensive and meticulously designed training system that accommodates students from early childhood to aspiring professionals and future teachers. Within the ballet world, various training methods exist, each possessing its own distinct style and aesthetic. However, all of these methods possess the ability to cultivate exceptional ballet dancers. At Chelsea Ballet Schools, we recognise the diversity and effectiveness of these training approaches, while emphasising the proven excellence of the Cecchetti method in shaping our dancers' artistic abilities. In the Cecchetti syllabus, Standard 1 serves as an introductory level for ballet students. Here are some key elements and concepts that ballet students typically learn in Cecchetti Standard 1: - Basic Positions: Students are introduced to fundamental ballet positions, including the five positions of the feet, as well as positions of the arms and head. - Posture and Alignment: Students learn the importance of proper posture and alignment in ballet technique. They develop an understanding of maintaining a lifted and elongated posture throughout their movements. - Barre Exercises: Students practice barre exercises to strengthen their muscles, improve balance, and enhance control. These exercises include pliés, tendus, dégagés, and ronds de jambe, among others. - Centre Work: Students begin to explore movements away from the barre in the center of the studio. This includes exercises such as adagio, pirouettes, petite allegro (small jumps), and port de bras (arm movements). - Musicality: Students develop an understanding of musicality and how to coordinate their movements with the rhythm and phrasing of the music. - Terminology: Students learn basic ballet terminology, including the names of positions, steps, and directions. - Coordination and Flexibility: Students work on improving their coordination, flexibility, and strength through specific exercises and stretches. - Artistry and Expression: While emphasis is placed on technique, students also begin to explore expressing themselves artistically through their movements and developing a sense of performance. It's important to note that the specific curriculum and progression may vary slightly between different ballet schools, and your child's class is recommended by teachers after

Contact Details

• 6 Upper Cheyne Row, London SW3 5JN, UK

• 15 Manresa Road, London SW3 6NB, UK

• St Barnabas Parish Hall, 23 Dulwich Village, London SE21 7BT, UK

• Marlborough Primary School, Draycott Avenue, London SW3 3AP, UK