Dance for toddlers and pre-school in Wales- Counterpoint School of Performing Arts, Swansea

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Within our Pre-school School and Reception school the emphasis is placed upon inspiring creativity, a use of the imagination, self expression and an ongoing passion for dance that will be needed to pursue later dance training.

Melody Bear-

(Pre-School 2-4 years)

NEW 'Melody Bear Movement' - Names now being taken.

In our newly introduced 'Melody Bear Movement' classes children between the ages of 2 and 4 are introduced to the basics of dance through natural steps such as running, walking, jumping, hopping, skipping and galloping.

The syllabus is cleverly devised around 'Melody Bear' - a teddy bear who sits at the front of every lesson and who, through the syllabus and music, encourages an imaginative exploration of movement.

These classes are designed to facilitate children's physical development, coordination, spatial awareness, creativity and self-expression, working alone or with friends. Through dancing with 'melody bear' children are cleverly introduced to numbers, colours, shapes, vocabulary and language skills in a fun and enjoyable way.

Melody bear stickers are collected as the children complete various tasks, for which they will eventually be awarded a medal! Melody bear story books can be bought to maintain the children's interest and enthusiasm.

'My daughter Emma has been attending the Counterpoint School of Performing Arts since theage of five when we moved to the Gower Peninsula in April 2001. Counterpoint had been recommended to us by Emma's previous teacher in West Sussex ,who is a senior I.S.T.D.examiner. We had been strongly urged to continue Emma's training under the guidance of Sheila Cunliffe and her experienced team. Emma began classes in ballet initially, but soon started tap and modern, musical theatre, jazz and singing!!! Emma loves all her classes and the regular shows presented by the school in a Swansea theatre are the highlight of Emma's year!

It is true to say that you can tell a child that has had an education in dance - Emma certainly has a poise about her that she has gained from dancing..not to mention the confidence gained from performing regularly in front of large audiences.

I would recommend Counterpoint to anyone - the teachers are friendly and approachable, whilst demanding the highest of standards from their students in terms of work, commitment and appearance. I am delighted with Emma's progress.'

Antoinette Dempsey

Introduction to Exams

Bronze, silver and gold British Theatre Dance Association Mime Medals offer the under 5's a fun introduction to the exam environment.

Reception 4-6 years

The reception school ballet, tap and modern is split into two levels - a preparation for Primary class and a Primary class working towards the Primary exam. This is the first step on a structured ladder of learning key skills in dance; the courses page provides further information. It is always difficult to ascertain when each child will be ready for an exam since they mentally and physically develop at differing rates. For example, some five year olds concentrate better than others! In the meanwhile they are immersed into a world of dance, music and songs. Poems, props and musical instruments further serve to stimulate eager minds and bodies.

Pre-school -

Melody bear movement
B.T.D.A Mime awards - Bronze and Silver medals

Reception -

Primary preparation - modern and tap
Primary preparation with Melody Bear- Ballet
Silver and Gold mime medals

Children will then progress to;

Primary Grade - Ballet, modern and tap