Dance classes for ages 3–7 years

Early Years Programme

Our Early Years Programme introduces young children to the joy of dance through creative movement, imaginative storytelling and age-appropriate dance techniques.

With Ballet, Tap and Jazz dance, our classes help develop confidence, coordination and foundational skills in a fun, encouraging environment.

Explore our three early years groups below to find the class that best suits your child.

Explore Age GroupsAbout The Programme

Little Dancers

(3-4 years)

Focus on:

  • Children not yet in school
  • Creative storytelling and imagination
  • Introduction to foundational dance movements
  • Ballet, Tap and Jazz

Mini Dancers

(4-6 years)

Focus on:

  • Developing confidence and coordination
  • Building on early dance foundations
  • Exploring Ballet, Tap, Jazz and Acro
  • Learning through fun and engaging activities

Rising Dancers

(5-7 years)

Focus on:

  • Developing dance technique and musicality
  • Building confidence and independence
  • Progressing foundational skills
  • Preparing for the next stage of dance learning

About

Building strong foundations through movement, play and connection 

Our Early Years Programme is carefully designed to support children through key stages of development. Beyond learning dance steps, children move, explore, communicate and build confidence, developing a positive relationship with movement from the very beginning.

Every element is developmentally appropriate. A three-year-old learns differently from a four, five or six-year-old, so activities, instructions, movement skills and expectations are tailored to each age and stage, helping children feel challenged and successful.

Through dance, music, imaginative play and purposeful activities, children develop gross and fine motor skills, coordination, balance, spatial awareness, musicality, listening skills, creativity and confidence. They also practise social and emotional skills, including taking turns, making choices, working alongside others and gradually becoming more independent.

 

Foundations that last 

These skills extend far beyond the dance studio. Our programme builds strong movement foundations while nurturing confidence, curiosity, independence and a love of learning.

As children grow, classes evolve with them, introducing greater structure, developing dance technique and encouraging independence while keeping the creativity and enjoyment that make early years learning so special.

Above all, we want every child to feel safe, seen, supported and excited to return.

Because in the early years, we’re building foundations for a lifelong love of dance.

Dance Class Timetable

Book 3 taster sessions in your chosen class for £20 via the timetable below.

Duckling Awards

(Little Dancers 3–4 Years) 

Our Duckling Awards are one of the sweetest days in the Early Years calendar! 

This special celebration gives parents and grown-ups the chance to step into the studio and see exactly what our Little Dancers have been learning. From ballet steps to imaginative adventures, it’s a lovely opportunity to watch their confidence and creativity shine. 

Every dancer receives their very own Duckling Award certificate, and of course, there’s time for plenty of photos with our much-loved Della Duck to make the memories last forever. It’s a joyful day full of smiles, proud moments and lots of celebrating! 

RAD Ballet Exams

(Mini & Rising Dancers) 

Within our Early Years Programme, we’re proud to offer Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet exams as an optional opportunity for our Mini & Rising Dancers. 

Exams are never compulsory, they’re simply a wonderful way for children to celebrate everything they’ve been learning in class. Dancers perform the work they know in a familiar, supportive environment and receive an official RAD certificate and medal, recognising their hard work and progress. 

As one of the world’s most respected ballet organisations, the RAD provides a fantastic foundation for young dancers. For those who choose to continue dancing into our Upper School, taking RAD exams is a great introduction to the exam pathway and helps build confidence for future grades. 

Our Bi-Annual Show

Lights, costumes… it’s showtime! 

Every two years, our dancers take to the stage for a spectacular performance, giving them the chance to experience the excitement of performing in a real theatre. From their very first costume to their final bow, it’s an unforgettable milestone for every child. 

Our show brings together the entire dance family, friends, parents, grandparents and siblings all cheering from the audience as our dancers shine with confidence and pride. It’s a celebration of hard work, friendships and the magic of dance, creating memories that last a lifetime. 

Meet Della Duck!

Our very own DN Early Years mascot!

Say hello to Della Duck, our friendly mascot who loves seeing our littlest dancers move, play and grow in confidence!

Keep an eye out because Della might pop into your dance class to say hello, and he loves joining us for our shows and Little Dancer Awards to celebrate all our little superstars.

Whether it’s their very first dance class or their big moment on stage, Della is always ready to cheer them on and make their dancing journey extra special!

EXPLORE DN DANCE

LOOKING FOR CLASSES FOR A DIFFERENT AGE?

Not quite the right age group? Explore our other programme to find the classes that best suit you or your dancer.

DN DANCE BABIES

Looking for classes for little ones under 3? Discover our fun and welcoming Baby classes, designed to introduce young children to music, movement and dance.

EXPLORE DN DANCE BABIEs →
MAIN SCHOOL 12+ YRS

Looking for classes for ages 12+? Explore our Main School programme, with engaging classes that help young dancers develop their skills, confidence and individual style.

EXPLORE AGES 12+ YRS→
MAIN SCHOOL 8-11 YRS

Looking for classes for ages 8–11? Explore our Main School programme, where young dancers can develop their technique, confidence and love of dance through a range of styles.

EXPLORE AGES 8-11 YRS →
ADULTS

Looking for classes for ages 18+? Discover our welcoming Adult programme, with classes for dancers of all abilities and plenty of opportunities to enjoy dancing and be part of our community.

EXPLORE ADULT CLASSES →
DN COMPANY

Ready to take your training further? Discover DN Company and our opportunities for dancers looking to develop their skills, performance experience and confidence.

EXPLORE DN COMPANY →

What people say..!

Amazing!

"Amazing dance school. Hugely enthusiastic and incredibly supportive dance teachers. Very happy dancers, everyone leaves buzzing!"

Happy kids

"My kids are happiest when they are in the studio with the amazing teachers."

Infectious enthusiasm

"Nicky and her team have made my daughter feel welcome from the start. Such a lovely atmosphere and great classes. Nick's enthusiasm is infectious!"

Community Spirit

"DN Dance has really made me feel a part of the local community"

Rediscovering the joy

"I gave up dance a few years ago but moving to Edinburgh as a uni student and finding DN Dance made me rediscover the joy again!" 

Professional & Welcoming

"Fantastic studio with a professional faculty who are so welcoming to people of all ages."

Highlight of my week

"I attend senior tap and couldn't be happier. Going to DN Dance is the highlight of my week!"

Friendly Staff

"My daughter has not long started tap/ballet and she loves it, and even more since she got the outfit. The staff are friendly and it’s a nice environment."

RAD Registered Teacher
ISTD