Ballet Brighton
RAD-syllabus ballet school for nursery through advanced, led
A ballet-focused dance school offering classical ballet training along with related dance disciplines.
Photo: Ballet Brighton via Google
Before your first class
The school welcomes complete beginners at nursery age upwards and offers adult classes for those returning to ballet or starting with some previous experience.
About this studio
Ballet Brighton is a professional ballet school in Brighton and Hove run by Clair Thomas, a former professional ballerina with seventeen years of teaching experience. The school follows the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Children's Examination Syllabus from Pre-Primary through Grade 8, as well as the Vocational Route from Intermediate Foundation through Advanced 2. Classes are taught across multiple venues in Brighton, including Richmond Parade Studios and West Hill Hall.
The school serves children from nursery age (24 months and up) through to advanced adult dancers. Nursery Ballet uses imaginative movement to music with ribbons, wings and wands for ages 24 months to 4 years. Pre-Primary and Primary in Dance classes introduce basic coordination and movement dynamics for ages 4-7. Grades 1-5 follow RAD graded syllabi with character dances based on Hungarian, Russian or Polish National dance styles, while Grades 6-8 include Free Movement and Character disciplines alongside ballet foundation work. The vocational pathway is designed for students from age 11 with the maturity and technical aptitude for demanding study, preparing them for a dance or dance-related career.
For adults, Ballet Brighton offers three levels: Improvers classes (1 hour, Mondays 6-7pm at West Hill Hall), General Level classes (1 hour 15 minutes, Saturdays 9-10:15am at Richmond Parade Studios), and Intermediate/Advanced classes (1.5 hours, Fridays 7:15-8:45pm at Exeter Street Hall). These are non-judgemental spaces for those with previous experience, those returning to ballet after a break, and currently practicing dancers.
The school emphasizes musicality, artistry and performance skills alongside correct, safe technique from the beginning. Non-Syllabus coaching classes and Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) classes are also offered. Children benefit from holiday workshops and a bi-annual school performance. Clair Thomas brings a holistic approach to classical ballet training, developed from her own professional career and ten years of freelance teaching before establishing Ballet Brighton eleven years ago after moving to Brighton. The school aims to develop happy, healthy, creative dancers with robust self-esteem and a genuine love of the art form.
What to expect
Your first visit
You can book a free trial class. Classes emphasize correct technique, musicality and artistry in a safe, inclusive environment. Instruction is delivered with encouragement, kindness and professionalism. For children, progression follows RAD syllabi; for adults, classes are non-judgemental and focused on joy and improvement.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Clair Thomas, BA Hons, ARAD, PDTD, RTS Principal, is a former professional ballerina with seventeen years of teaching experience. She studied under Miss Susan Robinson and brings extensive professional training to her teaching.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The school welcomes complete beginners at nursery age upwards and offers adult classes for those returning to ballet or starting with some previous experience.
Studio history
Ballet Brighton was founded eleven years ago by Clair Thomas after she moved to Brighton with her family. She began with two children in a class at Yellowave Studio on Brighton beach and grew the school organically to offer classes across multiple venues in Brighton. Before establishing the school, Clair had a career as a professional ballerina followed by ten years of freelance teaching.
Styles offered
4 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Not yet published on LODance
Check the About section above for the days and times Ballet Brighton has shared. A bookable schedule has not been published on LODance yet.
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Frequently asked about Ballet Brighton
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Ballet Brighton teach?
Ballet Brighton teaches Ballet, Free Movement (Contemporary and Classical Greek Dance), Character Dance (Hungarian, Russian, Polish National styles), Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT).
Where is Ballet Brighton located?
Ballet Brighton is located in Brighton and Hove. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Ballet Brighton offer private lessons?
Contact Ballet Brighton directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Ballet Brighton teach kids and adults?
Contact Ballet Brighton directly to ask which classes suit your age and experience level.
How do I sign up for classes at Ballet Brighton?
Sign up through Ballet Brighton's website, or contact the studio directly.
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Upcoming opportunities
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