Recreational Classes
Our Recreational Classes are for students aged 4-12, and adults aged 18+, who wish to experience quality dance training without the commitment of an intensive program.
Lower School
Our Lower School program is designed for children aged 4–12 and offers high-quality dance training in a supportive and enjoyable environment, without the commitment of an intensive training program. We offer classes for a range of ages and abilities across several dance styles.
For students aged 9–12 with a particular passion for ballet, we recommend our Junior Ballet Gateway Program. This enhanced training pathway combines twice-weekly classical ballet with a weekly contemporary class, providing a strong technical foundation while encouraging artistry, creativity, and self-expression. It serves as an ideal stepping stone for dancers who may wish to progress into our Ballet Intensive Program.
The ballet grades listed below do not correspond to school grades, as they are based on each student’s demonstration of the fundamentals of classical ballet technique. From age 12, students may be considered for acceptance into our Ballet Intensive Program through assessment.
The schedule is subject to minor changes. Classes with insufficient registrations may be cancelled, or students may be moved to another class.
Pre-Ballet
Ages 3-4
A gentle introduction to ballet for the littlest of dancers. Pre-Ballet is centred around learning through play and movement activities. Children learn to move to music and are introduced to basic ballet vocabulary.
Pre-Primary Ballet
Ages 5-6
A pre-cursor class to Primary Ballet, Pre-Primary begins to solidify the vocabulary learnt in Pre-Ballet while encouraging the development of correct ballet posture through imagery. Children will remain in this class until basic ballet vocabulary is demonstrated.
Graded Ballet Classes
Children will remain in each graded class until ODCS faculty recommend a higher grade. Students may have the opportunity to take their Royal Academy of Dance exams at each level if recommended by faculty.
Grade 1 Ballet
Ages 7-12
A foundational level in the RAD syllabus, specifically designed for young dancers who are beginning their formal ballet training.
Grade 2, 3 & 4
Ages 9-12
Grade 2, Grade 3, and Grade 4 RAD Ballet are taught as part of our Junior Ballet Gateway Program. Designed for dancers aged 9 years and over, this subsidized training program provides a structured pathway for students wishing to develop their classical ballet technique in greater depth. Participants train twice per week in classical ballet and once per week in contemporary dance, receiving a comprehensive and progressive dance education in a supportive and inspiring environment. Children aged 9+ with a passion for ballet are encouraged to enrol in the Junior Ballet Gateway Program to benefit from increased training, individual attention, and a clear pathway towards more advanced ballet study.
Grade 5 Ballet (Recreational)
Ages 7-12
Dancers enter a more advanced stage of their ballet training, marked by increased technical complexity, artistic refinement, and a deeper understanding of ballet principles. Recreational dancers at this level must take all Grade 5 classes available. If dancers wish to begin an intensive training program, they must apply for Level 1 of the Ballet Intensive Program which begins at the Grade 5 level.
Jazz and Contemporary
Junior Jazz
Ages 7-10
An engaging and accessible introduction to the dynamic and expressive world of jazz movement for individuals who are new to dance or exploring a new dance style. This class is designed to provide a solid foundation in basic jazz techniques while creating a welcoming and supportive environment for young dancers.
Elementary Jazz
Ages 11-17
A vibrant and engaging introduction to the dynamic world of jazz movement for young dancers. Students embark on a journey of exploration, learning the basic elements of jazz dance in a fun and energetic setting.
Intermediate/Advanced Jazz
Ages 14-17
An exhilarating and challenging experience tailored for seasoned dancers who possess a strong foundation in jazz technique; focusing on complex combinations and choreography that challenge dancers both technically and artistically.
Junior Contemporary
Ages 9-12
Designed for young dancers who are beginning their contemporary dance journey, this class introduces the foundations of contemporary movement in a supportive and engaging environment. Students explore fundamental techniques, musicality, creativity, and self-expression while developing coordination, strength, and confidence. Through improvisation, floor work, and guided movement exercises, dancers learn to move with freedom and versatility, complementing and enhancing their classical ballet training.
Elementary Contemporary
Ages 12-17
Designed for beginners who are exploring the foundations of contemporary dance. This class serves as an introduction to the genre, incorporating fundamental movement principles, basic techniques, and creative expression. Dancers explore concepts such as weight shifts, level changes, and the use of breath in movement.
Intermediate Contemporary
Ages 12-17
This class provides a balance between foundational techniques and the exploration of expressive movement. Tailored for dancers with some prior experience in various dance forms, this class aims to build on fundamental skills while introducing more complex movements and choreographic concepts.
Advanced Contemporary
Ages 14-17
Tailored for experienced dancers with a strong foundation in various dance techniques, this class explores the fusion of classical and modern dance elements. It delves into the fluidity of movement, emotional expression, and the integration of unique contemporary styles such as the Graham, Horton, Cunningham techniques.
Cross-Training and Workshops
Student Strength & Cardio
Ages 12-17
A dynamic and energizing workout designed to enhance both cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength, specifically tailored for dancers. This comprehensive class incorporates a combination of aerobic exercises and targeted strength training routines to improve overall fitness and stamina, essential for sustaining the physical demands of dance.
Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT)
Ages 12-17
Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) stands as an innovative regimen for conditioning and strengthening the body, specifically crafted to elevate students’ technique by honing the muscle memory essential in various dance forms. Not only does the program contribute to injury prevention and rehabilitation, but it also heightens athletes’ performance capabilities. This is a mat-based class and requires specific PBT equipment (see uniform).
Repertoire
Ages 14+, Adult
Open to both students and adults, this weekly workshop allows the participant to learn professional ballet repertoire from classical ballets. Due to the challenge of the choreography, this class is for individuals who are at an intermediate to advanced level of ballet training.
Adult Classes
Adult Beginner Ballet
Ages 18+
A wonderful way for individuals to explore the beauty of ballet, improve physical fitness, and experience the joy of dance in a supportive and non-judgmental setting. Participants are guided through fundamental ballet exercises at the barre, focusing on developing proper posture, turnout, and coordination.
Adult Intermediate Ballet
Ages 18+
Designed for dancers with a solid foundation in classical ballet, this class focuses on developing strength, coordination, and confidence while refining technical skills. Dancers will work on more challenging combinations, musicality, and artistry in a supportive and encouraging environment. This class is ideal for those with previous ballet experience who are looking to continue progressing their technique.
Adult Advanced Ballet & Pointe
Ages 18+
Designed for experienced dancers with a strong command of classical ballet technique, this class offers a challenging and rewarding training environment. The ballet class focuses on advanced technique, artistry, musicality, and complex combinations before progressing into a dedicated pointe section. The pointe component emphasizes strength, alignment, precision, and confidence while continuing to develop classical technique. Dancers are welcome to participate in the pointe section in either pointe shoes or soft ballet shoes, making the class accessible to those who are not yet en pointe or who simply wish to continue strengthening their technique without pointe shoes. Previous ballet experience is essential, and instructor approval may be required for dancers wishing to dance en pointe.