The dream of many young dancers is to stand on the tips of their toes in satin pointe shoes.  We aim to make those dreams come true – in a safe and steady manner.

Pre-pointe training is a requirement for any student wishing to progress onto pointe, or to return onto pointe after a prolonged absence.  Regardless of age or experience, the same criteria must be met by all students to ensure a safe transition.

The criteria for commencing pointe work at Simply Ballet is currently;

• Have completed a minimum standard of RAD Grade 5
• Be attending classes twice per week on a regular basis
• Purchase and complete the Perfect Pointe program under the guidance of a Simply Ballet teacher.

The intention of the Perfect Pointe program is to aid students, parents, and dance teachers with a system of assessing and preparing a student for pointe training. Strict criteria take the subjectivity out of the decision and help the teacher transition students onto pointe in the most integrated and responsible manner possible. The “Perfect Pointe Book” helps students learn the detailed assessment techniques and exercises, and understand why some students can perform movements more easily than others as well as how to overcome technical obstacles.

Areas addressed in the program include:

• Postural control
• Pelvic stability and alignment
• Foot and ankle mobility
• Articulation, strength and control of the foot
• Turnout control and core stability

Students learn a variety of exercises and techniques in stages and are assessed regularly to see if they are ready to progress to the next level.  Students may progress at different rates, and individual progress is monitored by the teacher.   Most students will complete the program in 9-12 months.

Students are expected to undertake strengthening exercises at home a minimum of 3 times per week.  Using the “Perfect Pointe Book” and the homework guide given by the teacher, students can demonstrate maturity and responsibility for their training – an essential part of their progression onto pointe.  If students do not complete adequate homework, this will generally lead to a delay in progressing through the stages.  All four stages of the course must be completed, in order, before a student can progress onto pointe after completing a final assessment.