Bridge Programme (14y - 18y)
Strengthening technique, refining artistry, and preparing for Advanced training.
At SGDA, our Bridge Programme supports dancers as they move beyond the Development stage and begin preparing for higher-level, more technical training. At this level, classes become more detailed and demanding, with a clear emphasis on strength, control, musicality and expressive performance.
Dancers in the Bridge Programme are encouraged to commit to regular classes across multiple styles, deepen their understanding of technique, and take greater responsibility for their training. This programme acts as the essential stepping stone into our Advanced Programme, where dancers continue towards the highest level of SGDA training, vocational readiness and performance development.
Classes Available
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Our Bridge-level RAD Ballet classes focus on strengthening technique, refining placement and building the control needed for higher-level work. Dancers deepen their understanding of alignment, turnout, musical phrasing and quality of movement, while continuing to progress through the RAD syllabus. This stage lays the essential groundwork for Advanced Ballet and pointe progression.
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Supporting stamina, flexibility, body awareness and safe technique across all styles.
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Discovering Repertoire offers Bridge dancers the chance to develop performance artistry through classical variations. Students explore excerpts inspired by iconic ballets, focusing on storytelling, musical detail, expressive quality and stylistic awareness. This class strengthens stage presence and prepares dancers for higher-level performance opportunities.
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Bridge Tap classes challenge dancers with more complex rhythms, clarity of sound, weight changes and musical interpretation. Technique, speed and precision are key focuses, alongside developing performance confidence and adaptability. This level prepares dancers for the demands of Intermediate tap work.
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At Bridge level, Pointe Safe work becomes more specific and structured. Dancers build essential strength in the feet, ankles and core, working safely towards the demands of pointe. Exercises focus on control, balance and alignment — the foundations dancers must have in place before progressing onto full Pointe Work.
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Bridge Pointe Work supports dancers who have been assessed as ready for pointe, helping them progress steadily and safely. Training includes strengthening at the barre, controlled rises and relevés, preparatory centre work and basic enchaînements. The focus is on correct technique, confidence and readiness for more demanding work at Advanced level.
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Bridge Acro develops greater strength, flexibility and control, with dancers progressing towards more challenging skills such as walkovers, aerial prep, balances and partner work. Technique and safety remain central, with an emphasis on smooth transitions and incorporating acro seamlessly into dance performance.
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Bridge Jazz builds power, precision and performance quality. Dancers work on advanced kicks, turns, leaps, isolations and technical combinations, alongside developing stamina and stylistic confidence. Choreography becomes more demanding, preparing dancers for Advanced Jazz and performance-based training.
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Bridge Lyrical focuses on expressive quality, fluidity and emotional connection. Dancers refine control, strength, transitions and musical interpretation, learning to blend technique with artistry. Choreography becomes more mature, challenging dancers to develop their individuality and stage presence.
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Bridge Commercial classes build confidence, performance presence and stylistic versatility. Dancers work on dynamics, musicality, staging and more complex combinations inspired by commercial stage and video work. This level encourages dancers to develop both precision and personality — key skills needed for Advanced Commercial.
“My daughter loves her classes at SGDA and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a first-rate dance school.
The teaching is professional, supportive and fun - with superb encouragement, outstanding attention to technique, and a real focus on building confidence and a lifelong love of dance.
The shows are fantastic, and as a parent the most rewarding part is seeing my daughter leave class with the biggest smile on her face.”
— Sarah Kenworthy
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Classes run on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays at The Hammond, Chester.
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Please park in the main car park and follow the SGDA signs on foot to the studio. Look out for our friendly team — we’ll make sure you find the right place.
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Leggings/shorts and a fitted t-shirt are perfect. Bare feet for ballet/lyrical, trainers for street/commercial, and tap shoes if you already have them (otherwise school shoes are fine to try).
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Yes — each class has a simple uniform list. Ballet students will be given clear RAD/ATAP uniform guidance, while jazz, tap, street and acro have their own practical kit. We’ll guide you step by step.
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We know some dancers adapt quickly while others take a little time. Our teachers encourage gently, set clear expectations, and celebrate effort as well as achievement. Parents are invited to watch during designated weeks to see progress.
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Don’t worry if your child is shy or hesitant at first — it’s normal when moving into more challenging classes. Our teachers will support them to feel comfortable and confident as they adjust.
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Classes are £10 per 45 minutes (or £8.50 for 30 minutes), invoiced termly. Multi-class and sibling discounts are available.
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The Bridge Programme is a pathway for dancers who are ready for a higher level of commitment and focus. While not every dancer progresses to Bridge, our aim is always to support each child towards the level that suits their confidence, ability and goals.
Those who do move beyond Bridge enter our Advanced Programme, where training becomes more technical and performance-driven - ideal for dancers who are passionate about developing their skills further or considering vocational routes in the future.