Pre-School Programme
Nursery & Pre-School Dance, 17 months - 4 years
Every big journey begins with small steps.
At SGDA, our pre-school programme is all about sparking joy through movement, rhythm and imagination.
We create a supportive, playful environment where children feel safe, build confidence, and discover the magic of dance.
Our Classes
Tiny Toes (Ages 17m - 34m)
A gentle, playful introduction to music and movement. Children explore rhythm, coordination, and imagination through simple exercises, props, and storytelling.
Tiny Toes is a parent-and-child class, giving little ones the comfort of having their grown-up beside them as they take their first steps into dance.
Budding Dancers (Ages 3y - 4y)
For children ready to take their first steps in structured dance. We introduce ballet foundations, rhythm games and creative expression, while nurturing confidence, focus, and a love of moving to music.
Parents/carers do not join in and are not in the room - helping children grow independence and focus. You’ll be invited in at dedicated watch weeks to celebrate their progress.
“Our little girl started Tiny Toes at 22 months and her confidence, coordination and social skills have grown so much.
Mrs Day made us feel welcome from day one - the perfect class for beginners.”
— Diane Rowland
FAQs
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Nursery & Pre-School classes run on Saturdays at The Hammond, Chester.
🌟 Tiny Toes → Saturdays 09:15–09:45, Studio 16 @ The Hammond.
For ages 17–34 months, with Mrs Day.
🌟 Budding Dancers → Saturdays 09:45–10:15, Studio 16 @ The Hammond.
For ages 3–4 years, with Mrs Day.
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In Tiny Toes (17–34 months), parents/carers join in the class with their child. For trial sessions, one extra adult is also welcome to watch.
In Budding Dancers (3–4 years), parents usually wait outside to help children grow independence. For trial sessions, a parent may come in and watch.
Every child is different at this age, and our teachers are flexible - we’ll always work with you to make sure your dancer feels happy and confident.
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Leggings/shorts, a fitted t-shirt and cardigan in bare feet are perfect. Tiny Toes parents should remove outdoor shoes before entering the studio. If your child already has a ballet kit, they’re welcome to wear it.
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Don’t expect too much straight away. Even if your child has been buzzing with excitement and counting down the sleeps, they may still feel very reserved when they first come in. Some little ones run in with excitement, others cling on for dear life or even refuse to join in at first - this is completely normal.
Remember: coming to a brand-new place, meeting new adults, and stepping into a mirrored studio is a huge achievement in itself. Our teachers are experienced in supporting children through this stage, and with encouragement and reassurance most settle quickly and begin to enjoy the class in their own time.
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Pre-School classes are £8.50 per 30-minute session, invoiced termly. We also offer multi-class discounts if your child attends more than one weekly class.
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All Pre-School classes run in Studio 16 at The Hammond. On arrival, park in the main car park then follow signs to SGDA. Studio 16 is in the Centenary Studio Block (behind the walled garden) SGDA staff will always be on hand to guide new families.
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Yes - consistency is important at this age. Mrs Day teaches both Tiny Toes and Budding Dancers every Saturday. She is the Owner and Director of SGDA and an Affiliated Teacher of the Royal Ballet School, specialising in early years dance education.
If cover is ever required, you’ll be informed in advance and the class will always be led by a trusted SGDA teacher.