West Berks Ballet School, located in Reading, is dedicated to fostering a love for dance in its pupils. With the belief that some students may pursue a dance career while others will develop a lifelong passion for dance, the school aims to instil grace, poise, strength, and self-confidence in its students.
Classes are held at Bucklebury Memorial Hall, and the school is an approved dance centre for DDI and DDE Cecchetti Ballet. The spacious studio is equipped with a sprung wooden floor, barres, and heated changing rooms. Ample, well-lit parking and comfortable waiting areas for parents are available. The school is conveniently situated just outside Thatcham and near Newbury.
The friendly and professional atmosphere at West Berks Ballet School ensures that students and teachers alike share a love for dance. Notably, the school has a remarkable track record of success, with students receiving placements at esteemed institutions such as The Royal Ballet School, English National Ballet School, Central School, Elmhurst, Arts Educational, London Contemporary Dance School, Rambert School of Ballet, and London Studio Centre. Many students have also been awarded Cecchetti Society Scholarships, and several former students now dance in professional ballet companies.
The school's teaching staff includes Cara Drower, an Approved Tutor who guides students towards their National teaching qualifications. Additionally, West Berks Ballet School offers Modern Theatre Dance and Tap classes at all levels. For students interested in examinations, the school provides the opportunity to be entered for Cecchetti Society exams, at the discretion of the teachers.
The school's uniform consists of a sleeveless navy leotard, while older girls in Grade 4 and above may choose any suitable leotard. Younger children wear ballet ankle socks and soft ballet shoes with elastic, while older girls wear flesh-coloured ballet tights. Warm cross-over cardigans are recommended for winter.
West Berks Ballet School was established in 1975 by Mrs. Gillian Robinson, who served as the Principal until her retirement in 2002. Since then, the school has continued to promote a love for dance and provide quality dance education to students in Reading and the surrounding areas.