“Dance can inspire, empower, invigorate, educate and civilise us all.”

Luke Rittner, Chief Executive of RAD.

HMSG offers both individual and group lessons in classical ballet as an extra-curricular activity.  The ballet discipline is taught in the classical dance program according to the syllabuses of both the Royal Academy of Dance and the International Dance Teachers’ Association.  Ballet lessons may be taken to improve posture, coordination, strength and flexibility and can also help to improve the technique which lies at the foundation of all types of dancing.

The Royal Academy of Dance is an awarding body accredited by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) in England, the Curriculum and Assessment Authority for Wales (ACCAC) and, in Northern Ireland, the Council for the Curriculum, Examination and Assessment (CCEA).  This accreditation places the Academy's qualifications in the National Qualifications Framework for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Last year, the RAD qualification at Grades 6-8 and above, have been approved as contributing towards UCAS points tariff when applying to a university or Higher Education institution in the UK.  This means that candidates who have achieved a Pass or higher at Grades 6-8, Intermediate or Advanced Foundation, can use their RAD exam result to aid in their further education application process. 

 “To dance is to find an expression of oneself, to enjoy life and make friends.”

The International Dance Teachers’ Association is one of the world’s largest examination boards, covering the full spectrum of dance examinations on a global scale, with over 7,000 members in 55 countries. The Association celebrated its centenary in 2003.  The primary objective of the Association is to promote knowledge and foster the art of dance in all its forms. 

Initially formed in 1903 by a group of teachers in Manchester as the Manchester and Salford Association of Teachers of Dancing the IDTA has grown to be a global leader in dance awards across many disciplines.  In October 2006 the International Dance Teachers' Association (IDTA) and the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) announced that the two organisations would embark on a process of working together to the mutual benefit of their members. examinations of either awarding body.

By having instructors that are fully registered with these internationally recognised governing bodies, HMSG pupils can be assured of continuity of instruction when both joining and leaving the school.  It also gives pupils the benefit of working towards grade exams that are recognised as equivalent to their academic studies.  

For girls who wish to pursue dance as a career, tuition is available leading to vocational exams at levels from Intermediate to Advanced-II.

However, dance at HMSG is about so much more than grades and tests.  Dance is for everyone and novices are welcomed from all year groups.  The exams and tests are completely optional.  Many girls will never enter any grades and dance purely for enjoyment, relaxation and self-expression.

As for all physically demanding activities, health and safety are of paramount importance.  Competent instruction is vital, as is the provision of proper dance facilities.  The studio at HMSG has a sprung dance floor from British Harlequin plc., the best in the business.  Double barres acknowledge that we are not all perfectly matched in height and also accommodate pupils for pointe work.

Mrs. Pavey is always happy to meet with pupils and their parents and discuss all dance opportunities at HMSG.  All uniform and accessories, as directed by the RAD and IDTA, are available from the school shop.

Ballet Uniform List (187KB)