Aces (Ages 12-18)

Developing strong foundations, versatility, and creative expression. These dancers begin working on longer routines and exploring choreography.

Ballet

Ballet, Grade 2 (for older beginners)

This class introduces structured classical ballet technique, posture correction, and centre work and a larger vocabulary of steps and positions to older beginners and those progressing from first levels. ISTD Grade exams for those ready and opportunities to perform in costume. Plenty of opportunities to catch up for older beginners, who can also dance alongside their peers. We also have a Grade 2 'section' in our Grade 4 classes, so older beginners can dance with their peers, while those more advanced can still improve their technique, as even professional dancers still have to perform those basic steps ...

Ages 10-16
£8.50/session (Paid monthly £25.50, OR ACES: Ballet, Modern & Tap Dance, 165 minutes, £61.50 per month)
Saturdays

Ballet, Grades 3 - 6

Focuses on barre strength, balance, and movement quality. Dancers explore turns, travel sequences, and graceful arm use, setting them up for more advanced performance opportunities and preparing them for vocational exams. Pointework can begin for those strong enough, with a strong focus on safety, without losing the adventure of those first pointe achievements.

Ages 11-18, depending on experience and level
£8.50/session (Paid monthly £25.50, OR ACES: Ballet, Modern, Tap, 165 minutes, £61.50 monthly)
Saturdays

Tap

Tap Grades 2-6 (for those already tapping)

Students explore foundational technique and rhythmic phrases. Dancers learn the difference between timing and tempo while building their tap vocabulary each week. There are numerous combinations to all kinds of music from Hollywood Musicals to Contemporary upbeat tracks. Regular attendees can take ISTD Grade exams and we're all preparing for our November Show and Children-in-Need Tapaton. Older beginners should start with Grade 1, (Mondays at 4.15pm or Saturdays 9.30am) or Adult Beginners' Tap on Wednesdays at 6.45pm/Thursdays 2.30pm), and they should soon progress - especially if they've learned other forms of dance. We can slot those who've tapped with a different syllabus into a grade class.

Ages 10-18
£7/£8.50 session (Paid monthly £21/£25.50 OR ACES, Ballet, Modern Theatre & Tap, 150/165 mins, £57.00/£61.50 per month
Saturdays at Acacia School of Dance, Wandsworth Road, SW8 3JL

Beginners: Saturdays 9.30am,

or Adult class Level1/2, Wednesdays 6.45pm

For those starting at 13 or 14, starting with our Grade 1 class on Saturdays at 9.30am is a good idea, and they'll be able to 'join in' some more advanced classes and permanently 'move' once they've got the basics. Tap is probably the only genre where however good a dancer you are, when starting, you'll want to learn the 'ABC's in a basic class first, so you aren't 'lost' and can to zoom up to your age group.

For those 15 plus though, it can be more enjoyable to try Adult classes (Wednesdays at 6.45pm or Thursdays at 2.30pm). If you haven't got too much free time, you can stick with Adult Tap, (taking the easier Adult Tap tests if you like) and still taking part in our Shows and Tapathon. (There's no pressure - we love having backstage helpers too)! No need to feel nervous; everyone's very friendly and ready to help. :)

Ages 13-18
£8.50 one hour session; £7.00 for 45 minutes (Paid monthly £25.50/£21.00))
Acacia School of Dance, 823 Wandsworth Road, SW4 3JL

Modern Theatre

Modern Theatre, Grades 3-6

Modern Theatre dance explores emotional storytelling and grounded movement through different styles. Students can expect exercises and dances to Jazz, Lyrical, Pop, Rock, Soul, Classical, Latin, Musical Theatre and any kind of music you can think of! Dancers practice floorwork, turns, leaps, kicks and expressive choreography. Modern will help you improve your Ballet and Tap technique as well as being a .dance form in its own right. A good genre for improving your work with GCSE dance. If you aren't a serious dancer, but just want some good, safe exercise and stretching that's fun as well, this is the dance form for you!

Ages 11-18
£8.50/session (Paid monthly £25.50 OR ACES: Ballet, Tap & Modern 165 mins per week £61.50 per month
Saturdays at Acacia School of Dance, 823 Wandsworth Road, SW8 3JL

"Your commitment to teaching the beauty of dance is truly appreciated. Thank you for your tireless efforts, your patience and most importantly for believing in our girls. Your guidance has been invaluable" Eliska B., parent

"You are an amazing Ballet teacher and have helped many children"

Arwen R-C, student

"Acacia Dance School is an amazing place to learn dance. The instructors are professional, patient, and passionate. Classes are well-structured for all levels, and the atmosphere is welcoming and full of positive energy. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to improve their dance skills and enjoy a great experience!"

Tania C., parent of teenage pupil

"Postitive Communication, Quality, Professionalism, Value - my daughter started taking lessons when she was just 4 years old, she is now 19. Totally excellent service. A dance class that is more than just dancing but teaching kids life skills, organisation and respect. Structured, teaching kids attention to detail. Team work and much more"

Suzan Mathias, parent

Starlings

(Ages 3-7)

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Starbursts

(Ages 8-12)

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Aces

(Ages 13-18)

Adults

(18+)

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News/Events

|Video learning between classes

We’re excited to announce that our brand-new Acacia Video Library is launching soon!

You'll be able to log in to your prescribed practise video to help if you miss classes, have upcoming performances or exams or simply browse, click, and dance! Keep an eye on your emails and our socials for the official launch date!

Acacia Show 2026

Our biggest event of the year is just around the corner!

🗓 Rehearsals: Saturday, 14th November
🎭 Show Day: Saturday 21st November

Join us for a day of celebration, sparkle, and stage magic.

Let’s celebrate the talent, teamwork, and joy our dancers bring to the stage!

FAQ's

Can my child join if they’ve never danced before?

Absolutely! We welcome beginners at every age and place them in classes that match their comfort level and confidence.

What should we wear to class?

We recommend easy-to-moe-in leggings and a t-shirt with bare feet. You can try Tap in outdoor shoes before buying Tap shoes. Don't buy any special clothing as there's a uniform; details are shared at enrolment. We sell ballet shoes at the class so children can try them on. Some other items are available in class, and we have an online supplier.

Can parents watch dance classes?

Children learn best when their attention isn't divided between parent and teacher, so we have a 'Watch Week' once a term, when parents can watch any classes. Younger or shy children may need their parent in the room with them to begin with, and this is always possible.

It's worth remembering that children are often engaged with the class, but then get a little 'clingy' when they see Mum or Dad, which 'breaks the spell'. Being patient with a child's desire to engage is important; they may really enjoy dancing, but even adults going to a new place, with a new teacher and classmates and a new activity and routine can feel a little overwhelmed at first. Encouraging them to try the class is all part of building resilience.

What if my child is shy?

Younger children, (especially 3-5 year olds), may want to watch for a while first, and it's best to let them take the lead. Some will join in on their own after a few minutes, others can take a few weeks,. it IS worth persevering as many dancers and teachers who love dancing were reluctant at first! (I was one of those children). We'll always come and get you if your child needs you. New parents of young children who join in straight away can wait nearby in the changing room or elsewhere in the building where other parents will be congregating.

Can we take dance exams?

Absolutely! We enter students for ISTD Grade and Vocational Graded Exams (Imperial Ballet, Modern Theatre and Tap).

Younger children can take the Primary Class Exams, but once they reach Grade 1 level, they work to the higher 'Grade' standard so they're prepared for Vocational exams in case they decide later that they're really interested and would like a career in dance, teaching or related theatrical disciplines. You can also be awarded UCAS points for Grade 6, Intermediate, and Advanced 1 or 2. These are earned for passing Grade 6 and Vocational exams so committed students can use them for their non-dance university applications.

Adults can take Popular Tap Tests (Levels and Medals). and a few adults have surprised us all by starting as beginners and going on to take Grade and Vocational exams in Ballet, Modern Theatre and Tap!