Children
The Thompson School of Ballet teaches the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus for children’s classes and from Pre Primary upwards we expect those attending class to wear the appropriate uniform. Uniform is an important part of the class. Whilst ballet can be a fun hobby, it also requires a level of discipline. Being well groomed and wearing the correct clothing is part of that discipline.
Hair should be tied back off the face (preferably in a bun if possible) and no jewellery is to be worn in class.
The uniform will generally consist of a leotard (with or without a skirt), ballet shoes and either ballet socks or ballet tights.
In addition, from Grade 1 upwards, a character skirt and character shoes are also required. The skirt is a circular cotton skirt with three ribbons in our school colours decorating the bottom of the skirt. Character shoes are a canvas shoe with a small heel. These are required in addition to the other items and are an essential part of the class.
Once newcomers have tried a class or two and have decided that they want to commit to attending regularly, then the correct uniform should be purchased.
I have set up a website to sell our uniform directly to you from our supplier.
Please visit tsb.mydancestore.co.uk
Adults
As an adult taking a class, we appreciate that not everyone will feel comfortable wearing a leotard and a pair of tights. In fact, hardly anyone will!
So our adult ballet classes are very relaxed and you are welcome to wear whatever you are comfortable such as leggings and a t-shirt. Some of our adults (who are now brave enough!) wear a leotard, but they wear it underneath something that is looser fitting. Wearing a leotard makes you feel like are a ballet dancer even if you are the only one who knows you are wearing it!
We do recommend ballet shoes, however as with all classes, we suggest that you try the class first (just wear socks and be prepared to take them off and go barefoot!) and then only commit to purchasing a pair once you know you are happy to continue with the class.
All uniform can be ordered from us although this is not compulsory. We only require that you adhere to our uniform requirements. Order forms with prices can be emailed.
Children attending Intermediate foundation and upwards require pointe shoes. These need to be fitted correctly and we recommend DANCING DREAMS at Hartlepool.
This is the only supplier of a particular pointe shoe, which we have found to be really good for first time users.
The make of shoe is called GAYNOR MINDEN.
Below is the address and contact number for the shop as they like you to ring and make an appointment for the fitting.
Let’s Dance
Unit 3, Avenue Road,
Hartlepool,
TS24 8BB.
Please call 01429 282439 to arrange a fitting appointment.
NEW – I have set up a website to sell our uniform directly to you from our supplier.
Please visit tsb.mydancestore.co.uk
The website is set up for each Grade so you easily see what’s needed for your Child’s class.
New children are welcome to borrow off me for a few weeks before any uniform needs to be purchased so they can settle at class. If you are not sure on sizing please ask and I am happy to advise you.
This company is a good quality stockist and the prices are competitive.
Uniform requirements Grade by Grade
Pre Primary & Primary Uniform
Pink sleeveless leotard, Pink ballet socks or tights to match skin tone, Pink cotton lycra wrap, Pink Ballet shoes with elastic – Canvas or Leather, and Pink Skirt. Hair tied up, preferably in a bun.
Grade 1 / 2 Uniform
Lavender leotard, Ballet socks or tights to match skin tone, Lavender cotton lycra wrap, Pink Ballet shoes with elastic – Canvas or Leather, Hair tied up in a bun, Black character shoes.
Character skirt with ribbons in school colours. (needs to be ordered from me directly.)
Grade 3 / 4 Uniform
Mulberry leotard, Ballet tights to match skin tone, Mulberry cotton lycra wrap, Pink Ballet shoes with elastic Leather or Canvas, Hair tied up in a bun, Black character shoes
Character skirt with ribbons in school colours. (needs to be ordered from me directly.)
Grade 5 Uniform
Teal leotard, Ballet tights to match skin tone, Teal cotton lycra wrap, Pink Ballet shoes with elastic – Leather or Canvas, Hair tied up in a bun, Black character shoes
Character skirt with ribbons in school colours. (needs to be ordered from me directly.)
Grade 6 / 7 / 8 Uniform
Purple leotard, Ballet tights to match skin tone, Purple cotton lycra wrap, Pink Ballet shoes with elastic – Leather or Canvas, Hair tied up in a bun, Black character shoes
Character skirt with ribbons in school colours. Purple chiffon skirt & purple silk
(needs to be ordered from me directly.)
Vocational Grades
Black sleeveless leotard, Ballet tights to match skin tone, Pink Ballet shoes with elastic –Leather or Canvas, Hair tied up in a bun. Pointe Shoes…needs to be cleared with your teacher who will give you the relevant information.
Boys
White/Black leotard or White/ Black t-shirt, Black shorts or tights, White socks, Black /White ballet shoes, Boys character shoes from Grade 1 upwards.
But your uniform directly from our supplier.
Please visit tsb.mydancestore.co.uk