A Journey That Grows with Your Child
Explore the opportunities we offer as your child finds their passion for performing.
Most of our families join when their children are a mini, looking for a fun and creative hobby. Over time, those first classes often spark a real love of dance and musical theatre and we want to nurture that by encouraging children to try different styles, take exams, and grow in confidence.
As students move into our junior and senior school, they can have the opportunity to do more. For some, dance remains a joyful lifelong hobby. For others, it becomes a pathway to professional training and even a career in the arts. With our reputation for outstanding teaching and decades of expertise, we’re proud to support any pathway they choose.
At Summerscales, every child belongs and is treasured as a ‘Gem’ whether they dream of the West End or simply love to perform, we’ll inspire them, challenge them, and be their cheerleader.
Recreational
Summerscales Performing Arts Recreational Pathway is a vibrant and inclusive program designed for students who love to dance, express themselves, and have fun in a supportive environment. Our joyful weekly classes focus on nurturing creativity, building confidence, and promoting wellbeing, all while developing foundational performance skills.
With a clear and progressive structure, students have the opportunity to work towards ISTD examinations, offering a recognised pathway for growth and achievement. The highlight of the year is our spectacular Annual Show, where every performer sparkles on stage and shares their achievements with family and friends.
Performance
Summerscales Performing Arts Performance Pathway is designed for dedicated students who show a passion for dance and a commitment to developing their skills through focused, all-round training. Open by invitation to those taking a minimum of four classes per week, this pathway is ideal for young performers ready to take their training to the next level.
Students follow a structured program including standardised ISTD examinations, regular performance opportunities such as displays and shows, and focused technical development across multiple disciplines. Alongside the physical training, the pathway nurtures essential qualities such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience — helping students to grow not only as dancers, but as individuals.
Elite
Summerscales Performing Arts Elite Pathway is our highest level of training, designed for exceptionally dedicated students with the drive to pursue dance at a pre-professional or competitive level. Open by invitation to those taking a minimum of nine classes per week, this pathway offers personalised training that challenges and inspires dancers to reach their full potential. Attendance in Elite Training classes is compulsory.
With a strong focus on industry-standard technique and performance, students receive targeted coaching throughout the year, tailored to their individual goals and strengths. The Elite Pathway includes access to competition opportunities, allowing dancers to showcase their talent, gain valuable stage experience, and build confidence in high-level performance settings.
Your Child’s Dance Journey Starts Here
Inspiring children to dream big, work hard and grow. Explore our classes and secure your place.
Mini
Ages 3-6
Your Little One’s Always Dancing… If your child is always singing in the car or creating their own dance routines in the living room, it’s time to explore the world of dance and movement. Our mini classes are designed especially for children aged 3 to 5 who love to move, imagine, and express themselves.
Junior
Ages 7-10
We provide the perfect foundation for young dancers to thrive, build confidence, creativity, discipline and joy. Whether they’re dancing for fun or dreaming of performing, we believe in offering young dancers a well-rounded performing arts education so they can find the style they love most.
Senior
Ages 11-18
Our intermediate and senior level students will develop the discipline, focus and critical thinking skills that are essential, not only for the theatre industry, but for life beyond the stage. We challenge and inspire, with a focus on technique, building strength, and nurturing artistic individuality.