The atmosphere is one big reason we chose Eden Dance Institute (EDI). Inclusive and low-pressure (would even say “no pressure”), it’s a spot that’s more on confidence building and having fun instead of being ultra-competitive.

Just to be clear, the school is still technical. Teachers here have notable records, such as having Certificates in Dance, training stints in the UK, participation in showcases like the Genee International Ballet Competition, and more.

There are no wallet shockers either, thanks to the all-inclusive structure. Students enrolled in multiple classes even enjoy discounts.

Speaking of the students, they have some as young as 2 years old, with upper school courses for the 6-plus crowd. Adult programs are available, of course, just not as wide a range as the courses for younger ones.

If there’s a true hitch, it’s EDI’s popularity. The timetable is packed, so ring ahead or hire the dancefloor (like we did in these dance studios).

No Pressure

EDI has provided the most wonderful, inclusive, fun, and incomparable opportunity for my daughter. This school is no-stress, no make-up, no pressure and is entirely committed to matching their classes to the children’s interests, skill level, personality and confidence levels. I could not be more relieved to find a dance school so different to others out there.

A very special thankyou to Jules for being so accommodating and helpful. The staff will stop at nothing to ensure their students are getting the absolute most out of their dance journey, but mostly having fun.

Gold standard!!!

Thankyou EDI.

– Kristy Riches, Google Review

Supportive

My daughter has been attending EDI for over 6 years… to watch her growth in confidence, skill, team work and building friendships has been a joy to watch. I originally chose EDI as it was one of the few dance schools that did not let children wear make up and ensured children dressed age appropriately but I quickly found out it was more than that, it was the kindness and supportive nature of the teachers that kept her at the school. Highly recommend EDI and thank the staff for all their years of supporting my daughter 🩷

– Amy, Google Review

We asked folks serious about classical and contemporary ballet about their preferred academy. The majority picked West Australian Ballet, founded by Madame Kira Bousloff in 1952.

It’s tough to deny their teaching staff’s calibre, with internationally-trained instructors like Reika Sato. She’s a London Centre graduate who’s toured Italy, Spain, France, and other countries, dancing principal roles.

We gave them credit for program variety as well. Adult sessions, junior courses, masterclasses, and holiday workshops are on offer.

That said, enrolling here is an investment. Rates are premium, so the school isn’t the optimal choice for casual drop-ins.

Parking is pretty limited, too.

We heard no complaints about their culture, though. Interviewees described the teachers as supportive, with level, age, gender, and fitness rarely hindering progress.

Plus, their students enjoy a 10% discount when shopping at Ballet Boutique (Dianella) and Costume & Ballet Centre (Mt Hawthorn). Sweet!

So Much Fun

Held an event here with the parents and kids of the office as part of the nutcracker premier and it was so much fun! Food was simple but good and a great selection of drinks were on offer. The performers came out after rehearsals to mingle and sign posters.

– Mel Scott (Melscottyy), Google Review

Amazing

The male dancers were amazing. Great to see David McAllister at the helm. He was the greatest dancer in the AB company.

– Pamela Hopcroft, Google Review

With a 1960 opening and an internationally experienced staff, Charlesworth Ballet School’s inclusion on this list is no stroke of luck.

Program-wise, the breadth spans from preparatory to senior extension ballet, mostly based on the classical Vaganova Method. That means courses highlight body fluidity, conditioning, alignment, expressiveness, and injury prevention.

There are additional classes worthy of checking, too, namely Jazz, Spanish, and contemporary.

Better yet, what they teach isn’t just for the studio. Students regularly showcase what they learned through recitals and community events.

The downside is, they’re less flexible for drop-in or casual participants.

Oh, and Charlesworth’s standards can cost a bit of coin. Their full-term, 30-minute classes, for instance, are priced at $160 (plus exams don’t come free).

The silver lining? Enrolling in three or more classes incurs a 5% discount. Trial sessions can also be booked, and they cost nada.

Courses Are Scientific

The teachers are very good. The basic ballet training courses are scientific, reasonable, beautiful and can achieve exercise effects. Parking is available on the roadside.

– Mary Wang, Google Review

Fantastic with the Children

Ms Rachael in Inglewood is fantastic with the children. Highly recommend the ballet school. It has helped my child build confidence over the last 2 years and she is enjoying her new ballet skills.

– Lauren Sullivan, Google Review

Those gunning for a career in ballet should give The Graduate College of Dance (TGCD) a peep. Founded in 1973, this vocational dance institution is considered by many as one of Australia’s finest.

That’s no wild claim, as their syllabus is RAD-designed. Students, therefore, achieve internationally recognised standards.

If you need proof, their decorated alumni are a glowing one. They have graduates who are now international performers and soloists of prestigious ensembles, like The Australian Ballet’s Brodie James.

The comprehensive curriculum is another. Beyond classical and contemporary ballet, the school teaches conditioning, performance psych, dance history, Pilates, and anatomy.

It goes without saying, however, that TGCD demands full commitment. Those after a casual experience will find more suitable schools elsewhere.

In addition, children younger than 4 years old don’t qualify for their youngest intake. Some places accept kiddos as young as 2 years old.

Excellent Techniques

Giulia had a massive improvement just in a few months of attending this school, thanks to the excellent techniques and disciplines taught here and to the dedication of the experienced teachers, all former ballet professionists.

We have tried and heard about other ballet schools in town, and if you’re looking for the best professional preparation in ballet, this is The Graduate College of Dance for sure!

– FRANCESCA CANTORO, Google Review

Teachers Are Also Lovely

My daughter enjoys her ballet lessons at this school. We’ve trialled many centres but found this school the best. The teachers are also lovely. Many students from this school have been selected to pursue ballet in prestigious schools overseas.

– Ai Ling Tan, Google Review

All Star Dance and Performance Centre is an ideal choice for parents seeking a family-oriented school. See, this school has programs where tots get to learn and dance with their caregivers or parents.

Interviewees also describe the community as family-like, with many claiming that there’s no pressure, and support comes naturally. Some students have even stayed for over 22 years for that very reason!

The neat part is they still teach technicalities, ballet-wise. Think classical pointe work, high extensions, and barre routines.

Just note that All Star isn’t a dedicated ballet school. If you or your child needs a more “hardcore” environment, a few of the choices above fit the bill better.

And while the school accepts enthusiasts of all ages, adult-focused programs are still limited.

If performance matters more to you, though, the snags above can be overlooked. Showcases are the norm here, especially if you enrol in the troupe classes.

Super Nice and Helpful

My daughter Ariel is having so much fun with her friends and her teacher since she started! Ali is super nice and helpful with emails and any kind of questions! I will definitely recommend this school dance! 😍

– Antonia Mancino, Google Review

Warm and Welcoming

Isabella loves All Star Dance! Her teacher Ali is amazing, patient, encouraging and full of energy. The classes are fun, the studio is warm and welcoming, and her confidence has grown so much in just one month. Highly recommend to any family thinking about dance. Your child will love it as much as Isabella does!

– Nishma D’Agostino, Google Review