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.
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.
Uniform requirements Grade by Grade
Pre Primary & Primary Uniform
Pink short sleeve cotton lycra leotard
Pink cotton skirt
Pink ballet socks or tights
Pink cotton lycra wrap
Pink Ballet shoes with elastic – Satin or Leather
Hair tied up in a bun
Grade 1 / 2 Uniform
Lavender cotton lycra leotard
Pink ballet socks or tights
Lavender cotton lycra wrap
Pink Ballet shoes with elastic – Satin or Leather
Hair tied up in a bun
Black character skirt with ribbons in school colours.
Black character shoes
Grade 3 / 4 / 5 Uniform
Mulberry cotton lycra leotard
Pink ballet tights
Mulberry cotton lycra wrap
Pink Ballet shoes with elastic – Satin or Leather
Hair tied up in a bun
Black character skirt with ribbons in school colours.
Black character shoes
Grade 6 / 7 / 8 Uniform
Purple cotton lycra leotard
Pink ballet tights
Purple cotton lycra wrap
Pink Ballet shoes with elastic – Satin or Leather
Hair tied up in a bun
Black character skirt with ribbons in school colours.
Black character shoes
Purple chiffon skirt & purple silk
Order forms can be emailed with current prices.
Guidance can be provided on sizing.
We order from good quality stockists and our prices are competitive.
We do not require that you order from us only that you comply with our school uniform.