Upper School Classes
Our Upper School classes are for children aged 10 - 18 years!
Ballet
At Claire Andrews Dance Academy, students study the ISTD Imperial Classical Ballet syllabus from Pre-Primary to Grade 6 and then onto the vocational levels. We hold optional examinations and class examinations for all the grades, which improves the confidence and technique of students and develops the sense of dance, poise and musicality.
Acro Super Stars
and Pro Stars
Students start by learning acro positions, locomotive skills, balance skills, cooperation and social skills, whilst having lots of fun! We use lots of props to help build children’s confidence whilst learning, and our picture cards are a great way to keep learning enjoyable.
Our main Acrobatic Dance programme is suitable for children aged 4 and upwards and these classes focus on our level cards, learning progressions of Cartwheels, Handstands, Bridges, Flexibility, Strength etc and moving up each level when all skills can be demonstrated correctly. All classes are taught by qualified Acrobatic teachers alongside all the Acro/gym mats for safety.
Commercial
This class is all about embracing the dynamic world of commercial dance with flair and finesse.
Get ready to express your inner diva as we dive into stylised choreography that commands attention. From sharp movements to sleek transitions, our Commercial Classes are a fusion of precision and freedom, designed to push boundaries and ignite your audience.
Led by our expert instructors, students will master the art of performance while honing their technique and musicality.
Musical Theatre
Students will study three modules in this class – Dance, Drama and Singing, and will work towards a small production per term. In drama your child will develop confidence in speaking and learning lines from a script and performing as a character in front of an audience. In singing we cover ensemble and solo work, building confidence and stage presence. We cover different styles in dance, and learn different routines, which will improve your child’s ability to retain choreography and to perform in shows and festivals throughout the year.
Modern & Tap
Children from the age of 4 can start learning the ISTD Tap and Modern syllabus. Tap is the most enjoyable and rhythmic forms of dance, making it very popular with children. Modern is a less formal environment than Ballet and children are encouraged to use their expression and musicality. This is a lovely way to build confidence, technique and performance. Children will learn steps and fun routines in classes and will work towards optional examinations or dance performances.
Lyrical
Our lyrical dance classes are perfect for children who want to dance freely, with more movement and fluidity than our Ballet classes. We focus on technique and how our body moves from one movement to another using different levels, floor and contact work. Expression and performance come from within and we work really hard to express this through softer movements.
Fusion
In these dynamic sessions, we blend various dance styles and influences to create a unique and exhilarating class.
Fusion Classes are all about exploring the endless possibilities of movement, combining elements from genres like contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, and more. From fluid transitions to unexpected rhythms, this class is where new forms of expression emerge.
With an emphasis on versatility and adaptability, Fusion Classes offer a space for dancers to explore their individuality while embracing the rich tapestry of dance styles.
Pointe Work
Pointe Work classes provide the opportunity for dancers who are trained to a high level in classical ballet to explore the ethereal beauty and technical precision of training in pointe shoes.
These classes focus on developing the strength, alignment, and control necessary for safe and proficient pointe work. Through a combination of barre exercises, center work, and choreography, students refine their technique while deepening their understanding of ballet artistry.
Tumbling
Following the Acrobatic Arts Syllabus, our Tumbling class is an add-on to our main Acro Classes. In the main acro we focus on technique, stength and flexibility in order for the students tumbling skill to progress. In the tumbling class, this is where we purely focus on the tricks and flips that the students love so much and strive to achieve, implementing the skill and technique they learn and perfect during the main class.
It is essential that students only attend Tumbling alongside and main acro class for safety purposes.
