Throughout their time attending classes at Grafton Dance Academy, children learn physical and cognitive skills as well as develop emotionally and socially. Between the ages of 2 1/2 and 18 years, as they enjoy the physical activity and master new dance skills we aim for our students to:

• build confidence and a positive self-esteem that will last throughout life by developing feelings of inclusion, purpose and achievement
• increase attention span, develop listening skills and improve the ability to follow instructions
• develop self-discipline, persistence, resourcefulness, flexibility of mind, the ability to self motivate and the ability to think quickly under pressure
• improve problem-solving skills, the ability to formulate a systematic approach to new challenges and the ability to retain and recall from memory
• develop observational and perceptual skills
• improve partner and group work skills - both leading and being part of a cohesive group
• learn patience and have an increased awareness of the need to understand the emotions and points of view of others
• develop an understanding of how the body works, personal physique and the importance of physical activity throughout life
• improve posture, strength, flexibility, joint mobility and fitness
• improve balance, co-ordination and awareness of how and where the body is placed in space
• develop spatial cognition and spatial perception
• learn to dance in different styles and develop a confident and appropriate sense of performance for the situation
• develop an understanding of music and knowledge of different musical styles

In addition, we offer excellent training and advice for students considering a career in Performing Arts. For students wishing to study musical theatre at college, acting and singing lessons will be necessary to supplement dance classes at Grafton Dance Academy. Ex-students of ours have gone onto train at some of the most highly respected vocational colleges in the country including: Central School of Ballet, Ballet Rambert, The Urdang Academy, Millennium Dance 2000 and Arts Educational Tring Park.