Established in 1939 by Australian performing arts pioneer Gertrude Johnson OBE, The National Ballet School (formerly National Theatre Ballet School) is one of Australia’s preeminent dance training institutions devoted to providing exceptional dance training to students of all ages.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Damian Smith, a renowned former Principal Dancer with the San Francisco Ballet, our diverse and highly accomplished teaching faculty delivers a comprehensive dance education based on Vaganova and Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) training.
The National Ballet School offers junior to senior classes for Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus, contemporary, jazz, tap and musical theatre, as well as school holiday programs, extension and elite classes.
The National Ballet School also offers a suite of pre-professional dancer training including full-time accredited courses (Certificate IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma of Dance) and the part time Elite Bridging Program. Selection to all accredited and bridging courses is by audition.
Located in the bayside suburb of St Kilda, the National Ballet School Melbourne aims to inspire a lifelong passion for dance. Students will experience the thrill of learning in our purpose-built studios and performing on The National Theatre’s very own heritage stage. Reap the rewards that come with taking part in the performing arts, build confidence and self-expression, meet new friends and enjoy a sense of achievement.
Pre-Professional Dance Training
Cultivating the stars of the future, The National Ballet School offers pathways to a professional career through our Elite Bridging programs that prepare students for full time study. Full time accredited courses in Dance (Elite Performance) include Certificate IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma qualifications.
2024 On Stage Ballet Summer School
Take a leap from the studio to the stage in this performance-based week of dance training.
Over six jam-packed days, The National Ballet School’s Artistic Director Damian Smith will guide students through the process of creating a ballet performance from concept and choreography to talent and technique.
Little Nashies
The Little and Mini Nashies ballet classes offer a weekly 45 minutes of instruction, practice and enjoyment for pre-school aged boys and girls.
Nashies of all ages learn the foundations of ballet; from posture, turn-out, coordination and line to the difference between a pirouette and a demi-plie.
Classical Ballet Classes
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Syllabus provides internationally-recognised levels of achievement and accreditation in classical ballet training for aspiring young dancers.
Nashies ballet classes for all age groups offer a regular weekly class where you can follow your passion, express creativity, meet new friends and have fun.
Dance Classes
Regular dance classes teach multiple genres including tap, jazz, character dance, contemporary dance and musical theatre.
These classes are great on their own or to complement other ballet and dance studies on your way to becoming a triple threat.
