(Years 7-10)

Upper School

Our Upper School programme offers a vibrant and varied selection of dance styles, including Ballet, Contemporary, Tech, Tap, and more, designed to develop both technical excellence and artistic expression.

With personalised guidance from our experienced instructors, students are supported as they refine their technique, explore their creativity, and grow in confidence.

Whether preparing for exams, performances, or simply dancing for enjoyment, our Upper School classes encourage every dancer to push their potential and build a lifelong love for the art of dance.

We offer a four-week trial!

We know that choosing the right dance class is a big step, for both you and your child.
That’s why we offer a gentle four-week trial period, giving your child time to settle in, feel truly welcome, and explore their new environment at their own pace before any full commitment is needed.

This also allows us to make sure the class is the best fit for your child’s personality, needs, and goals, because every child deserves to feel seen, safe, and supported from the very first step.

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Ballet

Available in Colchester and Harlow

In our Upper School Ballet classes, students begin working at a more advanced level, building on their foundational technique to develop greater precision, control, and artistry.

With a continued focus on anatomy, posture, and musicality, dancers are guided through the ISTD syllabus, with opportunities to work towards higher-grade exams.

These classes are designed to challenge and inspire, helping students refine their performance quality while deepening their understanding of classical ballet in a supportive and structured environment.

Tap

Available in Colchester and Harlow

In Upper School Tap, dancers continue to explore rhythm and musicality, but with increased technical depth, speed, and precision.

As students progress through the ISTD syllabus, they work on more intricate footwork, weight changes, and complex rhythmic patterns, all while developing their own musical voice.

Tap at this level is not only a great cardio workout and mental challenge, but also a chance to refine artistry, transforming the feet into instruments and turning sound into performance. It’s a rewarding, high-energy class that builds confidence, coordination, and a lifelong love of rhythm.

Modern

Available in Colchester and Harlow

Modern Theatre is a high-energy, expressive dance style that combines strength, flexibility, and precision.

In our Upper School classes, students build on foundational skills with more advanced travelling steps, kicks, leaps, and turns, while also developing performance presence and control.

Following the ISTD syllabus, dancers work toward higher-grade exams that support both technical growth and UCAS points at senior levels.

This style is essential for any well-rounded dancer, bridging the gap between classical training and the dynamic demands of the stage.

Contemporary

Available in Colchester and Harlow

Contemporary dance at Upper School level encourages dancers to explore fluidity, emotional expression, and creative movement through more complex choreography and improvisation.

Drawing from Modern, Jazz, and Ballet techniques, students develop greater versatility, strength, and artistry.

With a focus on dynamic floorwork, musical interpretation, and personal expression, this class challenges dancers to connect mind and body, while building the confidence to tell stories through powerful, original movement.

Acro

Available in Harlow

Our Upper School Acro classes follow the Acrobatic Arts syllabus, offering structured, progressive training that focuses on developing strength, flexibility, balance, and tumbling skills at a higher level.

As students advance, they begin mastering more complex movements such as aerials, walkovers, and partner work, all while building control and body awareness.

Taught by certified instructors in a safe, supportive environment, Acro is the perfect complement to other dance styles, enhancing technique, stage presence, and overall performance quality.

Musical Theatre

Available in Harlow

Step into the spotlight with our Musical Theatre classes, designed to nurture your talents in singing, dancing, and acting. Our classes cover a wide range of skills, from vocal training and choreography to character development and stage presence.

Led by experienced teachers, our classes offer a supportive and dynamic environment for students of all levels.

Whether you're dreaming of a career on Broadway or simply want to explore the magic of musical theatre, our classes provide the perfect platform to hone your abilities and build confidence. Join us and discover the thrill of performing in the world of musical theatre.

Technique Class

Available in Colchester and Harlow

Our Upper School Technique classes are designed to elevate and refine the technical foundations that support all dance styles.

Working alongside regular training, these sessions focus on alignment, strength, flexibility, and precision, helping dancers move with greater control, clarity, and efficiency.

Whether you're looking to enhance your performance in Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, or other genres, this class offers targeted exercises that boost progression, improve execution, and reduce the risk of injury, making it essential for any serious young dancer.

P.B.T
(Progressing Ballet Technique)

Available in Colchester and Harlow

Progressing Ballet Technique (P.B.T.) is a specialised conditioning class designed to enhance core strength, alignment, and muscle memory, all essential for advancing in Ballet.

Working alongside regular Ballet training, Upper School P.B.T. classes support dancers from Grade 2+, helping them improve stability, control, and overall technical execution. Guided by certified instructors and following the respected R.A.D. framework, this class deepens body awareness and prepares dancers for higher-level performance with precision and strength.

Pre Pointe / Pointe Work

Available in Colchester and Harlow

Our Pre-Pointe class is a vital step for students preparing to transition onto pointe.

Carefully designed to strengthen ankles, feet, core, and overall alignment, this class ensures dancers develop the control and stability needed for safe and successful pointe work.

Using a programme unique to PHAD and written in-house by our team, students are assessed individually to determine when they’re physically and technically ready. Pre-Pointe helps build confidence and prepares dancers for the demands of pointe with safety and care at the forefront.