The Royal Ballet School introduces students to its full-time training program as early as age eleven, creating a unique environment where young dancers begin developing professional habits from the start. Entry into Year 7 marks a transformative stage, as students move into boarding life and begin a routine that merges artistic discipline with academic education. This early immersion shapes their identity both as students and as future performers.
From the first day, onboarding is designed to be supportive and structured. New students are welcomed into the boarding community with care, receiving essentials like uniforms and, symbolically, a Royal Ballet School teddy bear. The gesture signifies belonging to a long tradition of dancers who have begun their training in the same place. Orientation sessions and pastoral guidance help students adapt quickly to their new environment. This initial phase establishes comfort and clarity, essential for adjusting to the demanding schedule ahead.
Daily life at the Royal Ballet School includes early morning starts, carefully timed meals, and full schedules of ballet and academic study. Students begin with classical training that follows a consistent structure, moving from warm-up to barre and centre practice. This training framework, taught by experienced instructors, is part of the Royal Ballet School’s established System of Training. It introduces students to technical standards and expectations from the outset, ensuring that strong foundations are built during their first years at the institution.
Academic lessons follow the morning dance sessions and are delivered across a wide curriculum. Subjects include Mathematics, English, Science, Humanities, Languages, and the Arts, with classes designed to align with GCSE and iGCSE objectives. Students are taught by qualified educators in dedicated classroom spaces on campus. This dual focus reinforces the Royal Ballet School’s mission to produce dancers who are intellectually grounded and artistically skilled.
In addition to formal lessons, onboarding includes orientation around wellness routines and self-care. Students are shown how to access the Healthcare Suite, schedule appointments, and use digital tools such as the Smartabase app to monitor their health. Training in self-management is emphasized, including time allocation for homework, rest, and personal organization. These lessons extend beyond technique and are crucial for long-term success in both academic and professional environments.
The Royal Ballet School creates a culture of responsibility from the earliest stages. Boarding life is structured to foster independence while also encouraging social integration. Students live in dormitories organized by age and gender, and common spaces offer opportunities to build friendships and develop a sense of community. This setting allows for informal learning that complements the formality of the studio and classroom. Activities like shared meals and group outings help new students transition smoothly into full-time training.
Admission into the Royal Ballet School is based entirely on a candidate’s demonstrated ability in classical ballet. Financial need does not affect selection, and 88 percent of enrolled students receive some form of assistance. This commitment to inclusivity ensures that the onboarding process is available to talented young dancers regardless of background. The focus remains on potential, dedication, and readiness to grow within the school’s structured framework.
By initiating training at an early age and providing a strong support system, the Royal Ballet School equips its youngest students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed. The onboarding experience is not just an introduction but a foundation for the years ahead, reflecting the institution’s dedication to developing dancers from the ground up.