Ballet is wonderful for children. It is a basic grounding for many things in a child's future. It teaches them co-ordination (many paediatricians recommend ballet), discipline, self-confidence, poise and teamwork. Ballet is also the basis for gymnastics, ice-skating, modelling, horse-riding, karate, modern dancing and many other physical activities.

The Royal Academy of Dancing Ballet classes are offered in English and Afrikaans for children from the age of three-and-a-half years old. As enjoyment is the most important reason for learning ballet as a little child, we begin with nursery rhymes in the form of dances. Examinations are held annually for children over six, enabling them to be awarded bronze, silver and gold medals.

We arrange a production on stage, or a workshop annually, which is a very exciting experience for the children. Whether one's child learns ballet and folk dance for a short period or for many years, there are numerous ways in which they benefit.

Gillian Saffrey, danced professionally in Johannesburg and New York as well as taught for the Royal Academy in the USA. She examines the 3rd year post-Matric students at UCT, and with the Advanced Teaching diploma and many years experience, has a thorough understanding of the requirements of ballet.

Lesanne Saffrey, a member and teacher of the Imperial Society national/folk dancing and the Royal Academy of Dancing ballet, has been teaching for 9 years and holds her BBA degree.

For more information or queries, contact Gillian or Lesanne Saffrey after hours at 021 913 4582.