Dancer training

The Royal Ballet School is a centre of excellence for classical ballet training with nearly 100 years of experience and expertise. We offer full-time vocational training, part-time pre-vocational training through our Associate Programme, Intensive Courses both in-person and on-demand and recreational training through our Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme.

All our training programmes are rooted in our rich heritage and deliver the highest standard of classical ballet teaching. The School is committed to a process of continuous improvement to protect students’ health, happiness and continued well-being, placing the student at the heart of all we do.

Full-time training

For students aged 11-19 years. We deliver a comprehensive classical ballet course, alongside an academic curriculum, at our White Lodge, Richmond Park and Upper School, Covent Garden sites.

Associate Programme

Nationwide part-time training for dancers aged 8-17 years with a special love for ballet. Associate students may be considering full-time training or a dance career.

• Junior Associates (application age 8-10 years old)
• Mid Associates (application age 11-13 years old)
• Senior Associates (application age 14-15 years old)
• Advanced Associates (application age 16-17 years old)

Intensive Courses

A unique opportunity for young dancers to experience the highest levels of coaching from the School’s full-time staff and renowned international guest teachers. Students experience intensive dance training for a fixed period and may consider their suitability for future full-time vocational training.

Intensive Courses on Demand

A curated collection of classes and talks to inspire young dancers and supplement their training, all available via Video on Demand.

The classes give students a one-of-a-kind opportunity to train with The Royal Ballet School wherever they are in the world and whenever they choose. From just £5, students can access an extensive collection of ballet, contemporary, character and Pilates classes, interviews, and talks with our Artistic and Healthcare teams.

Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme

The Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme (ATAP) extends The Royal Ballet School’s ethos and expertise to local recreational dance teachers and their students in the UK and worldwide. The innovative programme is based on providing high-quality training, not on student examination.

Alongside technical and performance skills, ATAP students learn about dance as a whole, including choreography, repertoire, and appreciation. Teachers are trained and mentored directly by The Royal Ballet School.

International Scholars Programme

The Royal Ballet School’s International Scholars Programme identifies and nurtures exceptional potential in young ballet students living outside the UK.