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Dance Classes Starting From £6.50 - View Fee Information

Marsh Tompsett School of Dance

Classical Ballet

The Cecchetti Method

At MTSD, we follow the Cecchetti Method, a classical ballet training system with a distinguished heritage, renowned for producing dancers who are both technically accomplished and artistically expressive. Developed by Enrico Cecchetti (1850–1928), one of the most influential classical dancers and teachers in history, this method has played a vital role in shaping modern classical ballet training. The Cecchetti Method is valued for its logical progression of technique, musicality and its distinctive sense of style.

The Art of Ballet

Ballet is a traditional and highly disciplined art form, celebrated for its graceful aesthetics, refined technique, and ethereal artistry. It develops strength, muscular control, flexibility, coordination, and poise, providing a strong physical and artistic foundation for dancers of all ages. While structure and discipline are fundamental to ballet training, there are also rich opportunities particularly for younger students for creativity, imagination, personal expression and storytelling alongside the mastery of technique.

Ballet On Stage

The balletic choreography created for our full-scale productions blends classical technique with a contemporary twist, allowing audiences to experience this timeless art form in fresh, exciting and accessible ways. While rooted in strong ballet foundations, our work embraces creativity and storytelling — from Cinderella’s mischievous little mice friends to the calm influence of Tai Chi in the gardens of Imperial China. These imaginative interpretations ensure our classical pieces feel vibrant, inventive and full of surprise, captivating audiences while inspiring our dancers to explore both tradition and innovation.

Our Training Journey

Students aged 3–4 are gently introduced to some elements of ballet through our Beginners Dance classes, where imaginative mime and a touch of magic inspire a love of movement. From around age 5, students begin exploring the Cecchetti Primary and Grade/Standard 1 syllabus as part of our Combined Ballet, Tap, and Modern classes. We believe that introducing multiple dance styles at this early stage creates a well-rounded foundation, supporting physical development while keeping young minds engaged, focused, and enthusiastic.

From approximately ages 6–7, students are invited to attend a dedicated ballet class, offering a more formal structure and the opportunity to progress through the Cecchetti examination syllabi, beginning at Grade/Standard 2. As students mature, they are supported at every stage of their ballet journey through the higher level syllabi, including Intermediate and the Gold Star Performance Award. For students with suitable feet and who demonstrate an appropriate level of technique, Pointe Work is offered as an additional 30 minute class at around age 13.

Discover the Other Dance Styles We Offer

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Reflects diverse theatrical styles, promoting dynamic & expressive performance.
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Rhythmical, relaxed & stylish with flavours of jazz both old & new. 
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Current & super cool - a chance to groove to the latest music.
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