Foundation Programme (6.5-8.5y)
Developing the building blocks every dancer needs.
Our Foundation Programme is designed for dancers who are beginning their technical journey and building the core skills needed for confident, long-term progression.
At this stage, dancers focus on developing coordination, musicality, strength and key foundational technique across a range of styles. Classes are structured to nurture good habits, safe practice and growing body awareness, all while building enjoyment and confidence in movement.
The Foundation Programme gives dancers a strong base to grow from - supporting clean technique, developing creativity and setting them up for success as they move into the Progression and Development levels within SGDA’s training pathway.
Classes Available
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ISTD Tap introduces dancers to rhythm, musicality and footwork precision. Through upbeat exercises and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing syllabus, students develop timing, balance and clear tap sounds. Classes are lively, confidence-boosting and a brilliant complement to Ballet and Jazz training.
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Our RAD Ballet classes build strong technical foundations while developing musicality, posture and coordination. Using the internationally recognised Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, dancers progress through carefully structured exercises that support safe technique, confidence and artistry. Ballet underpins all other dance styles and provides the essential discipline needed for long-term training.
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Acrobatics combines strength, flexibility and control with dance-based skills. Working through a structured syllabus, dancers learn safe progressions including bridges, handstands, cartwheels, balances and partner work. Classes improve coordination, core strength, body awareness and confidence — making Acro an excellent complement to all dance styles.
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Jazz is energetic, expressive and technique-driven. Classes develop kicks, turns, isolations, travelling steps and performance skills through dynamic exercises and choreography. Jazz improves flexibility, strength, musicality and stage presence, helping dancers become more versatile and confident.
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Supporting safe training, flexibility, stamina and body awareness.
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Lyrical dance blends the technique of ballet with the expressive flow of contemporary. Dancers learn to move with emotion, fluidity and control while developing flexibility, strength and musical interpretation. This class supports artistry, confidence and creativity, giving dancers a space to explore movement with feeling.
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Commercial is inspired by music videos, stage performers and current dance trends. Classes build rhythm, confidence, style and performance presence through fun combinations and high-energy routines. Commercial boosts self-belief, encourages personality and helps dancers develop strong musicality and dynamic movement skills.
““SGDA is dedicated to developing both skill and confidence in every child from the very beginning.”
— Allie
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Classes run on Thursdays, Fridays and 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 - once your child continues, we’ll guide you through our simple uniform list for each style. Uniform helps with comfort, safety, and a sense of belonging.
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At this stage, children are expected to attend independently, but we know everyone adapts at their own pace.
Our teachers encourage gently, celebrate effort, and build routines to help dancers feel confident as they step up their training. Parents are invited to watch during dedicated weeks and, during their child’s trial class.
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It’s normal for dancers to need a few weeks to adapt to new teachers, styles, and higher expectations. Don’t worry - our team will support them and ensure they feel part of the group quickly.
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Classes are £10 per 45 minutes (or £8.50 for 30 minutes), invoiced termly. Multi-class discounts are available along with Sibling Discount.
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Our Development Programme is taught by SGDA’s specialist faculty — experienced, fully qualified teachers including RAD and ISTD-trained ballet staff, professional performers, certified Acrobatic Arts instructors and commercial, jazz and lyrical specialists.
Students are taught by experts who know how to support developing dancers safely while challenging them to progress with confidence.
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After completing the Foundation Programme, dancers move into our Progression Programme, where they begin to build on their core skills with more structured technique and a wider range of styles. This next stage introduces greater challenge, helps dancers develop strength, coordination and confidence, and prepares them for the later Development, Bridge and Advanced levels within SGDA’s training pathway.