Royal Ballet School

The Royal Ballet School trains the next generation of classical ballet dancers in two historic buildings. Younger students aged 11 to 16 study at White Lodge in Richmond Park, a former royal residence built in the 18th century. Older students aged 16 to 19 train at purpose-built studios in Covent Garden, next to the Royal Opera House. The school was founded in 1926 by Ninette de Valois, who also helped establish the Sadler’s Wells Ballet. Over the years it has produced stars such as Margot Fonteyn, Darcey Bussell and Sergei Polunin. Entry depends solely on dancing talent, and most pupils receive financial support. White Lodge sits in Richmond Park, surrounded by deer and ancient trees. The Georgian mansion provides studios, classrooms and boarding accommodation for its pupils. Students follow a demanding timetable of classical ballet, character dance and academic subjects leading to GCSEs. Every year more than twenty thousand young dancers audition for just a handful of places. The school also offers training in Irish, Morris and Scottish dancing alongside contemporary styles. Boys receive extra conditioning to build the strength needed for partner work. The Covent Garden studios form a four-storey complex with six dance spaces and a small theatre. Students rehearse and perform there throughout the year, with third-year pupils often working alongside the Royal Ballet. Classes include solos, pas de deux and stagecraft, while academic work continues in four classrooms and a library. Each summer the school presents performances featuring every age group. The year ends with a matinée at the Royal Opera House where graduates take their final bows.