Pat Barker Academy of Dance offers classical training following the Royal Academy of Dance graded syllabus. The Royal Academy of Dance is the most well-recognised syllabus internationally and provides the best dance foundation any aspiring dancer can receive.

Classes are taught by Principal Miss Rachael who is a member and qualified teacher of the RAD. Students take exams approximately annually however examinations are not compulsory, students will still progress through the RAD grades regardless of whether they take exams or not. 

Classes take place at our own studios in Hinckley. Ballet for our younger dancers is on Saturday morning whilst our older students train Wednesday evenings. Take a look at our classes below for further information.

Pre-Primary/Primary Ballet (4 - 6 year olds)

Our Pre-Primary/Primary class follows the RAD syllabus, and dancers will begin to understand the technical demands of classical ballet and explore more complex movement combinations. Dancers will continue to explore musicality, performance and storytelling with the use of mime.

Saturday / 9 – 9:45am / 45 minutes

Grade 1 Ballet (6 - 8 year olds)

Grade 1 RAD syllabus classes, leading to optional examinations at the appropriate time. Dancers learn Classical ballet, Free Movement (similar to Contemporary dance) and Character dance to expand their skill set and understanding of ballet.

Saturday / 11:45 – 12:30pm / 45 minutes

Grade 2 Ballet (8 - 10 year olds)

Grade 2 RAD syllabus class, leading to optional examinations at the appropriate time. Dancers learn Classical ballet, Free Movement (similar to Contemporary dance) and Character dance to expand their skill set and understanding of ballet.

Saturday / 12:30 – 13:15pm / 45 minutes

Grade 3 Ballet (10-12 year olds)

Grade 3 RAD syllabus class, leading to optional examinations at the appropriate time. Dancers learn Classical ballet, Free Movement (similar to Contemporary dance) and Character dance to expand their skill set and understanding of ballet.

Saturday / 10:45 – 11:30am / 45 mins

Grade 4 Ballet (12+ year olds)

Grade 4 RAD syllabus class, leading to optional examinations at the appropriate time. Dancers learn Classical ballet, Free Movement (similar to Contemporary dance) and Character dance to expand their skill set and understanding of ballet.

Wednesday / 17:15 – 18:00pm / 45 mins

Grade 5 Ballet (14+ year olds)

Grade 5 RAD syllabus class, leading to optional examinations at the appropriate time. Dancers learn Classical ballet, Free Movement (similar to Contemporary dance) and Character dance to expand their skill set and understanding of ballet.

Wednesday / 16:30 – 17:15pm / 45 mins