Beginning Pointe

Beginning Pointe
Beginning pointe is designed for dancers who have developed the strength, technique, and
maturity needed to begin pointe training safely. Admission to this class is by instructor approval
to help ensure each dancer is physically prepared for the demands of pointe work.
Safety is the foundation of every class. Students will progress gradually through carefully
structured exercises that develop proper alignment, foot and ankle strength, balance,
coordination, and correct pointe technique. Classes begin with strengthening and barre work
before advancing to center exercises as each dancer demonstrates readiness.
Each dancer progresses at their own pace, with an emphasis on building confidence, healthy
technical habits, and injury prevention. Individual corrections and close supervision help
students develop the strength and control necessary for long-term success.
Dancers should be enrolled in regular ballet classes in addition to beginning pointe, as
consistent classical ballet training is essential for safe pointe work. Properly fitted pointe shoes
are required, and fittings should be completed by a qualified professional before the first class.
Our goal is to provide a positive, supportive environment where dancers can experience the
excitement of their first pointe class while building a strong technical foundation that will serve
them throughout their ballet training.
Beginning Pointe Class Prerequisite:
1.The student must be 13 years of age or older.
2.The student must have at least 3 years of consistent ballet training.
3.The student must take at least 3 dance classes per week (2 of them ballet classes not
including the pointe class).
4.The student must pass a series of ballet strength and technique tests before starting the class
on pointe. The class will be in ballet slippers until these tests are mastered.
5.The students’ pointe shoes will be kept at the studio until the student has developed the
strength to safely take their hands off of the ballet bar.
6.The students’ pointe shoes must be fitted by a professional pointe shoe fitter. A field trip will be
scheduled to a dance boutique with the student, parent & teacher when shoes are purchased.
7.Liability waiver is signed by parent or guardian and turned into the teacher.