Adult Ballet Assessment Program for Adults
Structured Adult Ballet Training in Melbourne
At Adult Ballet Centre, the Adult Ballet Assessment Program offers a structured and inspiring pathway for adult dancers who want to deepen their classical ballet training, mark their progress, and work toward meaningful technical development in a supportive adult-only environment.
Delivered assessment through the Australian Institute of Classical Dance (AICD) adult ballet framework and shaped by ABC’s teaching standard, the program supports dancers in building confidence, coordination, musicality, and classical understanding step by step.
This is a rare opportunity for adult dancers in Melbourne to experience structured classical ballet training with clear progression, purpose, and a genuine sense of achievement.
Beginning in July each year, each level is delivered once per week across a sixteen-week term, with Level 6 offered as an extended capstone level.
What the Program Offers
The Adult Ballet Centre Assessment Program sits alongside our regular ballet classes and provides a more formal framework for growth.
It offers:
structured adult classical ballet training
clearer technical progression
regular and measurable development
preparation toward meaningful ballet assessments and exams
an adult-only environment that values discipline, support, and long-term learning
For adults who want more than casual class attendance, this program offers a stronger sense of direction and developmental clarity.
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For adults beginning their structured ballet training journey
Regular class level Guide - currently a Foundation Beginner Level or above
Level 1 introduces the language, structure, and essential principles of classical ballet for adults in a warm and carefully guided environment. It is designed for adult dancers who are ready to begin learning with greater clarity and intention, while building confidence in the formal ballet class setting.
Throughout this level, dancers begin developing posture, coordination, musical awareness, recognition of ballet positions, and a clearer understanding of how a classical ballet class works. It is not about perfection. It is about building strong foundations and beginning to feel at home in the discipline of ballet.
What you will achieve
stronger understanding of the basic ballet positions of the feet and arms
improved posture, placement, and coordination
greater confidence in ballet class structure and musical timing
the beginning of real technical awareness
a clear and encouraging entry point into adult ballet training
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For adult dancers ready to move beyond the basics
Regular class level Guide - currently a Ballet Progression Level 3 or above
Level 2 builds on the foundation established in Level 1 and introduces a more coordinated and classically organised experience of adult ballet training. At this stage, dancers are asked to work with more precision, clearer directional awareness, stronger use of 5th position, and increasing confidence in the centre.
This level begins to feel more recognisably classical. Dancers are no longer only learning how to participate in adult ballet classes — they are beginning to shape themselves more clearly within the form.
What you will achieve
more secure placement and use of 5th position
stronger coordination between arms, feet, and head
greater confidence in adage, travelling work, and early turning preparation
improved musical response and memory
a more settled and recognisable classical quality in your dancing
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For adult ballet dancers ready for stronger control, continuity, and presentation
Level 3 marks an important shift into more mature classical ballet training for adults. The work becomes more layered, and dancers are asked to coordinate technique, line, musicality, and performance quality with increasing confidence.
At this level, dancers begin working with more developed port de bras, adage, battement frappé, stronger centre practice, unseen combinations, turning preparation, and more substantial allegro. The result is a more refined and articulate response to ballet training.
What you will achieve
stronger classical placement and directional awareness
improved adage control and supporting-leg strength
more confidence in unseen work and centre combinations
greater precision in allegro and travelling phrases
a clearer sense of artistry, finish, and classical maturity
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For adult dancers ready for more complexity and technical confidence
Regular class level Guide - currently a Classical Development Level 4 or above
Level 4 asks the dancer to bring together stronger technical understanding with increasing refinement. At this stage, the adult ballet assessment program becomes more demanding, and dancers are expected to show more reliable coordination, clearer control of direction, stronger use of épaulement, and greater composure across both barre and centre work.
This level supports the dancer in becoming more fluent, more technically aware, and more artistically responsive, while still working within a carefully supported adult framework.
What you will achieve
more refined classical placement and use of line
stronger control in adage, pirouette preparation, and travelling phrases
improved allegro timing and responsiveness
greater confidence in more complex ballet combinations
a more polished and assured classical presence
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A supplementary pointe option for approved adult dancers
For approved dancers, that have trained with Adult Ballet Centre in the ABC Pointe Program, Level 4 may also include a separate pointe demonstration component for adult ballet dancers designed to show the beginning of secure pointe technique in a safe and developmentally appropriate way.
This is not a full pointe examination. It is a carefully structured supplementary demonstration focused on the early foundations of adult pointe work, including basic strength, alignment, controlled rise and lowering, and simple safe centre presentation.
What you will achieve
stronger foundational pointe alignment and control
greater understanding of safe and secure basic pointe technique
improved strength through the feet and ankles
calm, supported introduction to simple centre pointe work
confidence in presenting early pointe work with safety and care
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For adult ballet dancers ready for stronger command, finish, and fluency
Regular class level Guide - currently a Intermediate Level 4/5 or above
Level 5 represents a more advanced stage of the adult ballet assessment pathway and asks the dancer to bring greater technical control, stronger continuity, and more developed artistic awareness into their work.
At this level, combinations become more layered, turning and allegro demands increase, and dancers are expected to sustain a more complete classical response across the class. The emphasis is on maturity, confidence, and the ability to dance with greater fluency rather than simply complete the material.
What you will achieve
stronger coordination and control through more advanced classical ballet vocabulary
more mature adage, pirouette, and allegro organisation
clearer musical phrasing and composure under increased complexity
improved presentation and artistic confidence
a stronger sense of yourself as an evolving adult ballet dancer
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A supplementary pointe option for approved dancers For approved dancers, that have trained with Adult Ballet Centre in the ABC Pointe Program, progressing from AICD Level 4 pointe work
For dancers who already demonstrate secure foundational pointe work, Level 5 may include a separate pointe demonstration for adults that builds gently and safely from the Level 4 pointe criteria.
This level of pointe work remains conservative and carefully supervised, but allows the dancer to show more developed strength, clearer 5th-position organisation, more reliable sous-sus, improved transfer of weight, and greater maturity in simple centre pointe presentation.
What you will achieve
more secure and coordinated pointe placement
stronger use of 5th position and sous-sus
improved transfer of weight and control away from the barre
greater confidence in simple centre pointe work
a more mature and composed pointe presentation
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For advanced adult ballet dancers ready for the final stage of the assessment pathway
Regular class level Guide - currently a Intermediate/ Advanced Level 5/6 + or above
Level 6 is the final level in our current Adult Ballet Assessment Program and is designed as a capstone stage of advanced classical ballet training for adults.
At this level, dancers are asked to bring together stronger technical control, more mature musicality, greater artistic confidence, and a more complete classical response across barre, centre, turning work, allegro, and performance presentation. This is not simply a harder version of the earlier levels. It is the point where the adult dancer begins to integrate technique, artistry, and performance quality with greater fluency and finish.
Because Level 6 is more demanding and complex than Level 5, it is delivered over a 20-week period, allowing adult dancers the time to consolidate advanced vocabulary, refine execution, and work with greater composure and confidence.
In addition to the core AICD Level 6 adult ballet assessment framework, this level also includes a guided repertoire study component, designed to deepen musicality, épaulement, artistry, and stylistic understanding within a carefully structured adult training environment.
What you will achieve
more advanced classical organisation and self-placement
stronger adage continuity and control
clearer pirouette and posé-turn preparation
more confident petit, medium, and grand allegro response
stronger musical phrasing and artistic maturity
greater confidence in repertoire-based work and performance presentation
the experience of completing the final stage of a structured adult ballet progression pathway
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A supplementary pointe option for approved dancers, that have trained with Adult Ballet Centre in the ABC Pointe Program, progressing from Level 5 pointe work
For approved dancers, Level 6 may also include a separate pointe demonstration component for adult ballet dancers that continues the progression from Levels 4 and 5 in a safe and carefully supervised way.
This supplementary component is designed to show more mature and refined secure pointe technique through stronger use of 5th position and sous-sus, clearer transfer of weight, quieter travelling control, and more finished centre presentation. It is not a full pointe examination and does not reward unnecessary risk. Instead, it reflects ABC’s approach to adult pointe training: technically honest, developmentally appropriate, and grounded in safety.
What you will achieve
more secure and refined pointe placement
stronger 5th-position and sous-sus organisation
improved transfer of weight and control away from the barre
greater confidence in simple travelling pointe work
more mature artistic presentation on pointe
continued pointe progression within a safe adult ballet framework
Expression of Interest and Enrolment
Who This Program Is For
The Adult Ballet Assessment Program is ideal for adult dancers who want:
structured classical ballet training
clearer technical progression
a more formal framework for growth
the opportunity to work toward meaningful ballet assessments in an adult-only environment
This program is especially well suited to adults who enjoy consistent training, value measurable progress, and want to deepen their understanding of classical ballet through a guided and purposeful pathway.
Pointe Components
Approved supplementary pointe demonstration components are available at selected levels from Level 4 to Level 6 for dancers who have been assessed as ready by Adult Ballet Centre faculty.
Pointe participation is optional and always guided by safe progression, technical readiness, and teacher approval.
How Enrolment Works
Submit your Expression of Interest form
Complete the form to let us know you would like to be considered for the program.
Receive level guidance
Our team will review your current training background and help guide you toward the most appropriate assessment level.
Confirm your enrolment
Once your place and level are confirmed, you will receive enrolment details for the upcoming intake.
Begin the program
The Adult Ballet Assessment Program begins in July each year, with each level delivered once per week across the program term, and Level 6 offered as an extended capstone level.
Expression of Interest Form
Further Details
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What to Bring to class: Bring a bottle, booklet, pen, or device to take notes. *Please note that class work may not be photographed or filmed unless your teacher advises for learning resources.
Exam attire:Female attire: Black leotard of choice, Energetics Black Adeline ballet skirt, theatrical pink ballet tights and pink canvas ballet shoes. An alternative is a black top, leggings, pink ballet socks, and pink canvas ballet shoes. Male attire: White short-sleeved polo and black male ballet tights, black ballet socks and black canvas ballet shoes. Non-binary: Any combination of the above clothing options. Hair:Female, Neat, low ballet bun, black headband, light make-up.
Male: neatly combed and gel/sprayed hair. Ballet bun for longer hair.
Jewellery: small pearl and crystal drop stud earrings, no necklaces or bracelets. Non-binary: Any combination of the above options for hair and makeup.
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Each AICD Adult Ballet Assessment Program level includes 16 weeks of tuition classes in preparation for the assessment.
Your program fee includes:
weekly assessment preparation classes
the AICD external assessor fee
the ABC internal assessment / mock exam fee
Program Fee
Full program fee:$787 AUD
Payment Options
Flexible payment options are available:
Pay in full: $787 AUD
Four-part payment plan: $196.75 AUD every 4 weeks
When enrolling, you may choose to:
pay the full program fee upfront, or
activate the four-part payment plan at checkout
Please note that the payment plan is a commitment to the full program fee, paid in instalments.
If you require guidance regarding the most appropriate level, please contact us at manager@adultballetcentre.com before enrolling.
After Enrolment
Once your enrolment is confirmed, you will receive a digital information booklet containing everything you need to know about the program, including key dates, expectations, and assessment information.
Level 6 Fee Exception
Please note: Level 6 is delivered over 20 weeks rather than 16 weeks and is therefore subject to a higher program fee. Level 6 pricing will be listed separately.
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The Adult Ballet Assessment Program is a specialised term-based program. For this reason, fees are non-refundable and non-transferable once enrolment has been confirmed.
Where a dancer is unable to continue due to serious illness or exceptional unforeseen circumstances, ABC may, at its discretion, offer a partial refund of up to 40% of the program fee.
Any such request must:
be made in writing as soon as possible
include supporting documentation where reasonably required
Please note:
refund requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis
The Adult Ballet Assessment Program is a specialised program and fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. In exceptional circumstances, such as serious illness, ABC may consider a partial refund request at its absolute discretion. Any approved refund will not exceed 40% of the program fee.
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These Terms and Conditions apply to enrolment in the Adult Ballet Centre (“ABC”) AICD Adult Ballet Assessment Program (“Program”). By enrolling in the Program, you agree to these Terms and Conditions.
1. Program Overview
1.1 The Program is a specialised, term-based adult ballet training program delivered by ABC through the Australian Institute of Classical Dance (“AICD”) framework.
1.2 The Program is offered in levels and is designed to sit alongside ABC’s regular class structure as an additional technical and assessment pathway.
1.3 Unless otherwise stated, each level consists of 16 weeks of tuition and assessment preparation.
1.4 Level 6 is delivered as an extended capstone level over 20 weeks and is priced separately.2. What the Program Fee Includes
2.1 The published Program fee includes:
weekly Program tuition classes for the applicable level
the AICD external assessor fee
the ABC internal mock exam / internal assessment fee
standard Program administration
2.2 Any optional extras, including but not limited to uniform items, special coaching, travel, optional workshops, or additional materials, are not included unless expressly stated.
3. Fees and Payment
3.1 The standard fee for each 16-week level is the published fee on the ABC website or booking platform at the time of enrolment.
3.2 ABC may offer:a pay-in-full option, or
a part-payment plan
3.3 If a payment plan is selected, this is a commitment to pay the full Program fee in instalments, not a month-to-month casual arrangement.
3.4 Enrolment is not confirmed until payment has been successfully processed or an approved payment arrangement has been activated.
3.5 ABC reserves the right to suspend participation, withhold assessment administration, or cancel enrolment where fees remain overdue.
4. Enrolment and Level Placement
4.1 Dancers may enrol directly if they already know their Program level.
4.2 ABC may, at its discretion, guide a dancer toward a different level if that is considered more appropriate for safety, progression, or class suitability.
4.3 Final placement decisions remain with ABC.
4.4 Places are limited and enrolment is subject to availability.5. Program Delivery
5.1 Program classes generally commence in July each year unless otherwise advised by ABC.
5.2 ABC reserves the right to make reasonable changes to:timetable
teacher allocation
studio location
music, exercises, or class structure
assessment dates
where reasonably necessary for delivery of the Program.
5.3 ABC will make reasonable efforts to notify enrolled dancers of significant changes as early as practicable.
6. Attendance and Participation
6.1 The Program is structured progressively. Regular attendance is strongly encouraged so dancers can prepare adequately for the assessment.
6.2 Missed classes are not refundable, exchangeable, or transferable to other products or services unless required by law.
6.3 If a dancer misses a class, ABC is not obliged to provide a make-up class, private lesson, credit, or refund.
6.4 ABC may advise that a dancer is not yet ready to undertake the assessment if attendance, preparation, or readiness is significantly affected.7. Pointe Components
7.1 Pointe demonstration components, where offered, are optional supplementary components and are not automatically included for every dancer.
7.2 Participation in pointe work is subject to:teacher approval
physical readiness
technical suitability
safe progression
7.3 ABC may remove or decline pointe participation at any time where it considers this necessary for safety or appropriate technical progression.
8. Client Responsibility
8.1 By enrolling, you confirm that you are physically able to participate in the Program or have sought appropriate medical advice before doing so.
8.2 You must promptly notify ABC of any injury, illness, pregnancy, medical condition, or other issue that may affect safe participation.
8.3 You agree to follow teacher instructions and studio safety directions at all times.9. Refunds, Transfers and Cancellations
9.1 The Program is a specialised term-based program with limited places. Subject to clause 9.5 and your rights under Australian Consumer Law, Program fees are non-refundable and non-transferable once enrolment is confirmed.
9.2 No refund, exchange, or credit will be provided for:change of mind
timetable preference changes
missed classes
partial attendance
withdrawal because the Program feels more demanding than expected
9.3 If a dancer wishes to withdraw before the Program commences, ABC may, in its discretion, consider a partial credit or transfer request, but is not obliged to do so.
9.4 If a dancer is unable to continue due to serious illness or exceptional unforeseen circumstances, ABC may, at its discretion, consider a partial refund request. Any approved refund will not exceed 40% of the Program fee.
9.5 Any request under clause 9.4 must:be made in writing as soon as reasonably possible
include supporting documentation if reasonably requested by ABC
9.6 Nothing in these Terms and Conditions excludes, restricts, or modifies any rights or remedies you may have under the Australian Consumer Law, including rights relating to consumer guarantees.
10. Assessment and Readiness
10.1 Enrolment in the Program does not guarantee that a dancer will be entered for, or should proceed to, the external assessment if ABC reasonably considers that additional preparation is required.
10.2 ABC may, in its professional discretion:recommend deferral of assessment
recommend continuation at the same level
recommend alternate progression timing
where this better supports the dancer’s safety, learning, or long-term progress.
11. Cancellation or Changes by ABC
11.1 ABC may cancel, reschedule, combine, or alter a Program level where reasonably necessary, including where enrolment numbers are too low, a teacher becomes unavailable, a venue issue arises, or an assessment change occurs.
11.2 If ABC cancels a Program before commencement and cannot offer a reasonable alternative, ABC will provide an appropriate refund or credit.
11.3 If ABC makes a significant change after commencement, ABC will act reasonably to provide an appropriate remedy where required by law12. Photos, Video and Assessment Administration
12.1 ABC may take photographs or video for internal training, assessment administration, or program records, unless you notify ABC in writing in advance that you do not consent.
12.2 Any external publication or promotional use remains subject to ABC’s usual consent practices.13. Behaviour and Studio Standards
13.1 All dancers are expected to behave respectfully toward teachers, staff, assessors, and fellow dancers.
13.2 ABC may remove a dancer from the Program without refund where serious misconduct, unsafe behaviour, harassment, or repeated disregard of studio standards occurs.14. Limitation and Safety
14.1 Participation in ballet training involves physical activity and inherent risk.
14.2 To the maximum extent permitted by law, ABC is not liable for loss or damage arising from participation except where liability cannot legally be excluded.
14.3 Nothing in these Terms excludes liability for rights that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law.15. Contact
Questions regarding the Program, level suitability, or enrolment may be directed to:
manager@adultballetcentre.com