Classical RAD Ballet Classes for Children & Teens in London
From a child’s very first ballet class through to RAD graded examinations and advanced vocational training, Dakodas provides a clear pathway for dancers to learn, progress and achieve.
Our classical ballet programme combines excellent technical training with the warmth, encouragement and individual attention for which Dakodas is known.
Ballet classes are available across Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Clapham, Fulham and Twickenham, welcoming families from across West and South West London including Richmond, Hampton, Battersea, South Kensington and Belgravia.
A Ballet Education That Can Grow With Your Child
Some children come to ballet simply because they love to dance. Others develop ambitions to take examinations, perform, audition or pursue more intensive classical training.
At Dakodas, there is room for both.
Students can begin from their earliest years and progress through a structured Royal Academy of Dance pathway, developing secure classical technique, musicality, artistry, strength and confidence as they grow.
The Dakodas Ballet Pathway
Adult & Me / Baby Ballet
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Beginner Ballet
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RAD Pre-Primary
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RAD Primary
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RAD Grades 1–5
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From here, dancers can continue through the RAD graded pathway or, when appropriate, move into more intensive vocational training.
RAD Graded Pathway
Grades 6–8
RAD Vocational Pathway
Intermediate Foundation
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Intermediate
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Advanced Foundation
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Advanced 1
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Advanced 2
RAD Ballet Examinations
Dakodas follows the internationally recognised Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, giving students a progressive framework through which to develop classical ballet technique, musicality and performance.
RAD examinations are available for students when appropriate and provide meaningful milestones throughout their ballet education.
Examinations are never treated as the sole purpose of learning ballet. Our priority is to develop knowledgeable, confident and expressive dancers with strong foundations that will support whatever direction their training eventually takes.
Exceptional Ballet Teaching
Dakodas was founded by Dakoda Matthews-Forth, a 2024 graduate of The Royal Ballet School’s prestigious Diploma of Dance Teaching.
The rigorous two-year programme develops teachers to deliver classical ballet training at vocational and pre-vocational level and includes advanced study of ballet pedagogy, anatomy, child development, dance psychology and healthy dancer development.
This philosophy is reflected throughout Dakodas: excellent technical teaching alongside a genuine understanding of the individual child.
Advanced Ballet Training & Opportunities
For dancers wishing to take their ballet further, Dakodas can provide additional training and support alongside regular syllabus classes.
Students may access private ballet coaching, examination preparation, audition coaching, technique development and complementary strength, conditioning and contemporary training where appropriate.
We also believe performance is an important part of a dancer’s education. Students are given opportunities to develop artistry, confidence and stagecraft alongside their technical training.
For dancers considering vocational training or auditions, our faculty can help families understand the next steps and ensure that training remains appropriate for the individual student.
Private Ballet Coaching
Private ballet coaching is available for students who would benefit from individual attention.
Sessions may focus on RAD examination preparation, technique, confidence, flexibility, conditioning, audition preparation or specific areas identified by the student’s teacher.
See Our Class in Action
Watch our classes and get a taste of what it means to be part of Dakodas.
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In a class
Watch our ballerinas in a Character section from one of our Ballet classes at our sister school - Knightsbridge Ballet
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Performance Showcase
A short clip from our latest show.
FAQs
Do you offer ballet classes near me?
Yes! We hold ballet classes ( also known as ballerina classes) across London, including Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Fulham, Belgravia, Clapham & Twickenham.
What age can my child start ballet?
Children can begin our Adult and baby classes from as young as 1 years old and our Beginner Ballet classes from 3 years.
Do you follow a ballet syllabus?
Yes, our ballet classes follow the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus.
Are your ballet classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! We have beginner ballet classes for children and adults.
What should my child wear to ballet class?
All students attending ballet classes are required to wear professional ballet attire to ensure they can move safely and feel part of the class. Ideally, this should be purchased from Dakodas for a consistent and polished look. This includes: Ballet shoes, Tights or ballet socks and the correct Ballet Leotard. All can be purchased from Dakodas.
Wearing the correct uniform helps students feel prepared, focused, and confident in class.
Can my child take ballet exams?
Yes! We offer RAD exam preparation for students who want to achieve graded certificates.
Can I book a trial ballet class?
Of course! Trial classes are a great way to experience our ballet programme.
Are there private ballet lessons?
Yes, we offer one-to-one ballet coaching for focused development.
Do you offer Ballet Barre Classes
Yes! At Dakodas, we offer Ballet Barre classes designed to build strength, flexibility, and technique using classic ballet exercises at the barre. These classes are perfect for improving posture, developing muscle tone, and deepening your understanding of ballet — whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills.
How far does the Dakodas ballet pathway go?
Our ballet pathway can take students from their earliest classes through Pre-Primary, Primary and RAD Grades 1–8, with vocational training extending through Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced Foundation, Advanced 1 and Advanced 2.
