Recreation Classes (Age 6+) – QUINTE BALLET SCHOOL OF CANADA

The Assemblé Dance Program (ADP) Ages 6+

“An elevated approach to recreational dance”

Welcome to the Assemblé Dance Program (ADP) at Quinte Ballet School of Canada.

At QBSC, we pride ourselves on offering professional-level training in a non-competitive, inclusive environment where students are encouraged to grow with confidence, discipline, and joy. The Assemblé Dance Program (ADP) is designed to give dancers the time and support needed to build strong technical foundations while still enjoying meaningful performance opportunities and a well-rounded dance education.

The ADP is open to all — no audition required.

Ballet is the foundation of our training, and students are encouraged to build their schedule à la carte by exploring additional styles such as tap, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and musical theatre.

Classes run from September through early June and are divided into three terms, with dates determined annually based on the academic calendar. Students are expected to commit to the full season, as each term builds progressively toward our year-end performances. Ballet levels typically take an average of two years to complete, allowing students the time needed to develop strong technique safely and thoroughly.

All ADP students participate in our annual family favourite, The Nutcracker Sweets, as well as our year-end production, Dance of Spring, held each June.

Beyond the studio, we are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and connected community for both students and families. Throughout the season, dancers may be invited to participate in social events such as movie nights, theatre trips, Halloween parties, arts and crafts days, bowling outings, and other community-building activities. These experiences help students build friendships, strengthen their sense of belonging, and create meaningful connections beyond the studio.

We also value opportunities for parent connection and community involvement, and strive to foster a studio culture that is supportive for the entire family. As students grow, they may also have opportunities for leadership roles, volunteer experiences, and community service hours within the school.

Pre-Professional Program (PPP) Ages 10+

“Where commitment deepens and training expands”

For students demonstrating strong commitment, focus, and interest in pursuing a more advanced level of training, the Assemblé Dance Program offers the Pre-Professional Program (PPP).

The PPP is designed as a bridge pathway toward the Professional Program at Quinte Ballet School of Canada, offering additional structure, training depth, and performance responsibility for dancers ready for a higher level of challenge.

Placement in the PPP is by teacher recommendation and studio invitation, based on technical readiness, maturity, and consistent engagement in class. This stream allows dancers to experience expectations more closely aligned with pre-professional training while remaining within the supportive framework of the Assemblé Dance Program.

The PPP is not required, but offered as an opportunity for students who wish to deepen their training with long-term artistic and technical goals in mind. Students in the PPP are expected to demonstrate a higher level of commitment through consistent attendance, strong focus in class, and a willingness to take on increased responsibility in rehearsals and performances.

While ballet remains the foundation of all training at QBSC, the Pre-Professional Program is also designed to prepare dancers for a wide range of dance styles. At this stage of development, exposure to multiple genres is especially valuable, as it allows for exploration, versatility, and self-discovery as an artist. A strong classical ballet foundation provides the technical strength, alignment, and discipline needed to excel in all forms of dance, supporting both well-rounded training and long-term artistic growth.

PPP students performances include, but are not limited to, The Nutcracker Sweets in December, and the Dance of Spring, in June.

Once enrolled in the Pre-Professional Program, students are expected to make QBSC their primary training commitment for the full season. PPP students may not participate in competitive dance programming at another studio while enrolled in the program. With the exception of short family vacations (up to one week), full attendance is expected throughout the year. This level of consistency is essential to maintaining the standard and integrity of the program, as frequent absences affect not only individual progress, but the consistency and development of the class as a whole.

In recognition of this commitment, PPP classes will not be scheduled on the Friday or Saturday of long weekends, allowing families some protected time within the season while maintaining consistency in training

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Dance Credit Opportunity at Quinte Ballet School in Partnership with Centennial Secondary School

Did you know you can earn an official high school dance credit while training at Quinte Ballet School of Canada? Thanks to our partnership with Centennial Secondary School, students can take advantage of this unique program:

Grades 9 & 10: Earn a credit each term.
Grades 11 & 12: Earn M-level credits, recognized for both college and university applications.
Flexible & Accessible: No matter your level, students training at QBSC can integrate their passion for dance with their academic requirements.

Combine your love of dance with your high school success—get academic credit for your commitment and talent!

📩 Contact us today to learn more about enrolling in the program

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why is Ballet the foundation of your programs?
Ballet gives students the building blocks for all styles of dance. It helps develop strength, coordination, posture, musicality, and body awareness in a structured and age-appropriate way. Even if your child loves jazz or hip hop, a ballet foundation supports their confidence, safety, and overall progress in every class they take.

Where does my money go?
As a non-profit organization, every dollar goes directly back into the program. Tuition and fees support our teachers, pianist, administration, building maintenance and upgrades, theatre rentals, costumes, and all of the behind-the-scenes elements that make performances possible. Our goal is to provide a high-quality, professional experience for your child, both in the studio and on stage.

Why don’t we get to keep our costumes?
We rent costumes so we can keep costs as reasonable as possible for families while still offering beautiful, high-quality pieces. This also allows us to take care of cleaning, repairs, and storage, and to reuse costumes when appropriate. If costumes were purchased individually, fees would be significantly higher.

Do you offer financial support?
We believe dance should be accessible to all families. As a non-profit, we are able to offer limited financial assistance based on need. If this would be helpful for your family, we encourage you to reach out to the office—conversations are always handled with care and confidentiality.

Why don’t you do competitions?

We are confident in the quality of our training and the progress of our students, and we measure success through individual growth rather than trophies or rankings.

Our program is intentionally non-competitive, focusing on developing well-rounded, technically strong dancers in a supportive and inclusive environment. By prioritizing training over competition schedules, students have the time and space to build a solid technical foundation, deepen their artistry, and develop confidence without the pressure of comparison.

We believe a dancer’s progress is best reflected in their growth, commitment, and love of the art form. Our focus is on meaningful, long-term development—both in the studio and on stage.

Why are the performance fees non-refundable?
Performance fees go toward expenses that are planned and paid for well in advance, such as theatre rentals, costumes, and technical staff. Because these costs are committed ahead of time, they cannot be recovered if a student is unable to participate. We appreciate your understanding as these fees allow us to create a meaningful and professional performance experience for all students.

How is class placement determined?
Class placement is based on a combination of age, experience, technical readiness, and classroom maturity. Our goal is to place each student where they will feel both confident and appropriately challenged. Placement is always made with the student’s long-term development in mind.

Does my child have to perform?
Performance opportunities are an important part of the training experience, but participation is not mandatory. If a dancer chooses not to perform, associated performance and costume fees will be removed from their tuition. Students who do not perform are still expected to attend classes consistently and remain engaged in the learning process.

What is the difference between the Assemblé Dance Program and the Professional Program?
The Assemblé Dance Program offers high-quality dance training in a flexible, inclusive, non-competitive environment. The Professional Program is a more intensive training stream designed for students pursuing advanced ballet study with a stronger daily commitment and a more rigorous training schedule.

What is the difference between the Assemblé Dance Program and the Pre-Professional Program?
The Pre-Professional Program is an invited stream within the Assemblé Dance Program for students ready for a greater level of challenge and commitment. PPP students remain part of the Assemblé Dance Program while taking on more rigorous training expectations, expanded performance responsibilities, and additional development opportunities.

How much attendance is expected?
Consistent attendance is essential for student progress and class cohesion. While occasional absences are understood, regular attendance is expected in all classes, and full attendance is especially important during rehearsal and performance periods.

Why is uniform important?
Uniforms create a sense of consistency, discipline, and focus in the classroom. They also allow teachers to clearly see alignment and movement patterns, which helps support safe and effective technical correction.

Why can’t parents watch every class?
Limiting in-class observation helps students stay focused, independent, and fully engaged in their learning. It also allows teachers to maintain a calm and consistent classroom environment. Watching Weeks are built into the season so families can observe progress in a dedicated and meaningful way.

Why do younger students need to be escorted in and out?
Student safety is our priority. Children under 10 must be escorted in and out of the building to ensure they arrive safely to class and are picked up securely at the end of the day.

Can my child move into more classes later in the year?
Possibly. Additional classes may be added during the season at the discretion of the Dance Coordinator, depending on class availability, student readiness, and scheduling.

Why do you require two lessons per week in Ballet 3-6?
Two classes per week support consistent progress and help students fully benefit from their training. Dance develops through repetition, and regular attendance builds strength, coordination, and confidence. With only one class per week, it becomes more difficult for students to retain material and keep pace with the group, which can impact both progress and motivation. Two classes provide the continuity needed to stay engaged, improve steadily, and feel successful at their level.

To Register Contact Blythe:

Email: Blythe@QuinteBalletSchool.com

613.962.9274 ex 23

International Students attending local schools in the 26/27 school year are welcome to join our programs. We are conveniently located immediately beside Centennial Secondary.

QBSC GENERAL INFORMATION

ETIQUETTE

We strive to maintain an inclusive, respectful, and focused environment. Studios are not gyms or play areas; the flooring is made of specialty material that, if damaged, can pose safety risks and require costly repairs.

Please note:
• Food is not permitted in the studios
• No hanging on the barres, roughhousing, or touching music equipment (including the piano)
• Students are expected to behave respectfully, speak only when appropriate, and maintain personal space

Parents may wait in the hallway or lounge and are welcome to use our free guest Wi-Fi. However, we ask that noise levels remain low. With the exception of Watching Weeks, class observation is by teacher invitation only.

SCHEDULE

Our final schedule is confirmed in the early weeks of Term 1 and may be adjusted based on enrollment. While we strive for consistency, some changes may occur in September or throughout the year.

The PPP’s receive a weekly schedule via email that they are expected to stay on top of. Current schedules are posted on the bulletin boards in the hallways.

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

The Nutcracker Sweets:Features highlights from The Nutcracker
• Year-End Show: Dance of Spring: Includes original choreography tailored to each class
• Watching Week (Terms 1 & 2): Families are invited to observe classes in the studio

In addition to our in-studio performances, QBSC dancers may also have opportunities to participate in community events throughout the season when available. These may include events such as Kids Got Talent, Canada Day celebrations, local festivals, retirement and assisted living home performances, and other community engagements. We are always grateful for opportunities to share our students’ work beyond the studio and welcome invitations or suggestions for future performances.

Please note:

Ballet 1 & 2 students rehearse for the Nutcracker on Saturday mornings, beginning the weekend after Thanksgiving Monday. Ballet 3-6 prepare in Performance Class.
• Full attendance at all rehearsals is required for participation in the performance.
• Detailed rehearsal information will be sent home during the second week of classes.

UNIFORMS

Uniforms are required for all ADP classes, with colours determined by level. Unless otherwise specified:
• Students must arrive in full uniform with clean tights and appropriate shoes
• Hair must be neatly styled: bun for Ballet; ponytail for Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop
• Students may wear regulation shorts, wrap skirts, or sweaters over uniforms

Uniforms can be ordered through our office and typically arrive within 2–4 weeks*.
*Delays may occur with the manufacturer—ordering in June for the upcoming season is recommended.
To order: Email Amy at admin@QuinteBalletSchool.com

We require a nude leotard for performances if your child is enrolled in multiple classes.

HAIR

Hair should be styled neatly and pulled back from the face.
• Ballet students must wear a bun (ponytails are not acceptable due to safety and distraction concerns)
• Students must supply their own performance hair accessories: hair pins, spray, nets, and ties

Please do not rely on other families to provide these items.

CHANGEROOMS

A female changeroom is located off the student lounge and is for female students only.
• Male students should use one of the two individual washrooms located in the main hallway.
• Limited lockers are available for students dancing two or more days per week—ask the office if interested.

PARKING & DOOR CODE

Free parking is available on-site.
• Please do not idle or park directly in front of the entrance.
• Students under 10 must be escorted in and out of the building.
• All ADP families receive a new door code each season. If you’re unsure of the current code, contact the office.

WEATHER CLOSURES

Safety is our priority. In case of inclement weather:
• We may close the studio early or cancel classes
• We may attempt to offer a Zoom or alternate make up class time, though this cannot be guaranteed
• Notifications will be sent via email by 3:30 PM and posted on Instagram: @QuinteBalletSchoolADP
• Please email us if you do not plan to attend due to weather

📞 Note: Phone calls are not the most effective way to reach us, as staff may be working remotely.

MAKE-UP CLASSES

In the unlikely event of a teacher being ill or having a professional conflict:
• A substitute teacher may be provided
• A make-up class or class extension may be offered
• Make-up classes may not be held on the same day/time as the original class

WATCHING WEEK

Offered in Terms 1 & 2, Watching Week invites parents and caregivers into the studio to observe classes.
Siblings and friends are welcome but must not cause disruptions.

PERFORMANCE FEES

These fees cover venue rental, costume cleaning/adjustments, hair pieces, props, rehearsals, and technical crew.
Performance fees are non-refundable.

FUNDRAISING

QBSC is a non-profit organization. All funds raised go directly back into programming and the maintenance of the studio.
We are deeply grateful for your support, but participation in fundraising is optional.

PERFORMANCES

By choosing to participate in performances, students commit to:
• Regular class and rehearsal attendance
• Prioritizing QBSC during performance weeks, including attending extra rehearsals
• Following appearance guidelines: no jewelry or nail polish; clean, hole-free pink tights and shoes required for both performances and photos

Teachers/choreographers reserve the right to exclude students from performances due to lack of attendance or preparedness.

PHOTOS, VIDEO & SOCIAL MEDIA

Parental permission is required for QBSC to use your child’s image in social media or promotional materials
• Please avoid posting photos/videos of other students without their consent
• Professional photos and videos will be available for purchase
• Individual photo sessions are offered for the June performance

COMMUNICATION

You will receive regular email blasts (eBlasts) with updates—please read them to stay informed.

For inquiries:
• General questions and uniform orders: Contact Amy at admin@QuinteBalletSchool.com
• Class placement, performance, teacher-related questions: Contact Blythe Graziano at blythe@QuinteBalletSchool.com

📞 Phone: (613) 962-9274 ext. 23

STUDENT PLACEMENT IS AT THE DISCRETION OF THE DANCE COORDINATOR; AGE POSTED IS A GUIDELINE ONL

For more information please contact our Dance Coordinator: Blythe@QuinteBalletSchool.com

PETITES ASSEMBLÉS PROGRAM (Age 3-5)

Our Petites Assemblés Program is for the very young and is meant as an introduction to the Assemblé Dance Program (ADP). We develop the imagination and creativity of our young students in addition to the strength, focus and stamina needed for Ballet 1. Creative Dance and Primary students will have an opportunity to perform for their family and friends in a calm, inviting environment in our Petites Assemblés Spring Show and Tea!

For more information, go to the drop down menu and select “Petites Assemblés”