Key OTM Policy areas to note:

1. In addition to the Pointe class, students must attend a minimum of two ballet technique classes per week (on two different days of the week). Without doing multiple classes a week it is not possible to develop and maintain the level of Classical Ballet technique, strength and stamina required to safely dance en pointe.

2. Students must attend the pre pointe-conditioning classes and complete homework exercises. Students will participate in a carefully designed Pre-Pointe Program (by invitation) and be required to do strengthening work out of class prior to being invited to progress onto pointe. Participation in these classes will help students fully understand the requirements for passing their pre pointe assessment and help them develop the required strength and flexibility. The exercises and theory covered in these classes will not only prepare students for their pre pointe assessment and pointe work but will improve their technique as well. 

3. Students must demonstrate a mature and focused approach in class. The ballet teacher will decide whether the student has sufficient maturity and focus to progress to pre-pointe and pointe work. 

4. Students must pass a pre-pointe physiotherapy assessment. A pre-pointe assessment consists of a series of tests/exercises similar to what we will cover in class. The physiotherapist will then determine if there is sufficient strength, mobility and control in the feet, legs and torso to dance en pointe. Students are required to arrange their own physiotherapy assessment with a suitably quality practitioner. If the required level of strength and flexibility is not demonstrated to allow the safe progression onto pointe the physiotherapist will recommend a series of exercises to help develop the deficient areas, and a follow up session will be required. Details of the dance physiotherapists who conduct pre pointe assessments will be given to the students at the appropriate stage.

These 4 requirements will ensure that students can progress safely onto pointe.

• Once students have received notification from the physiotherapist and their class teacher that they are ready to commence pointe work students will receive information about pointe shoes! Please do not purchase pointe shoes without speaking with your teacher first and under no circumstances are the students to practice pointe work at home.

• Students and families must respect and abide by the advice, recommendations and decisions of the teacher and physiotherapist with regard to pointe work. Families need to pass on the advice/recommendations/decisions of the physiotherapist to the ballet teacher.

• Students must not attempt exercises outside their capability, or without being instructed. The teacher will instruct the student on the exercises they are permitted to do. Some exercises may need to be done at home, and it is vital that students only practice exercises that the ballet teacher has stated they are allowed to practice.

• The only exception to the two-class policy, is where a student is studying full-time dance and is participating in technique classes either in university or college. Students must provide information about these classes.

Pre-Pointe and Pointe Policies

View the full Pre-Pointe Policy and Guidelines.