Summer Training
Find the right summer intensive: a guide for 11–16-year-old dancers (and their parents)
Summer intensives are more than “extra classes.” For young dancers they’re a powerful way to accelerate technique, study with new teachers, and get a taste of vocational training — all in a concentrated, supportive environment. But “big name” doesn’t always mean “best fit.” Below is how to think about intensives, what to look for, and some respected programs in Canada, the U.S., and the U.K.
Why train in the summer?
Focused progress. Intensives often give daily, extended technique classes plus variations, pointe, partnering and contemporary work — more repetition and variety than school-year lessons, which speeds improvement.
Try different teaching methods. Summer lets you test a school’s teaching style (and whether you respond to it) without committing to a full year or residence program.
Audition and networking opportunities. Many schools use summer programs to identify students for year-round training or scholarships.
Experience life as a pre-professional. Longer class days, performance rehearsals, and masterclasses simulate what vocational training or company life feels like.
(Programs vary in length, intensity and age ranges — always check individual program pages for dates, age cutoffs and audition requirements.)
Don’t choose size or prestige alone — pick the fit
Big names have great faculty and exposure, but the best program for a young dancer is the one that matches:
Your current technical level (not just age),
Teaching style (strictly Vaganova, Balanchine, mixed methods, emphasis on Ballet or Contemporary, etc.),
Goals (audition for vocational school vs. broaden experience vs. performance practice),
Practical needs (cost, travel, residential vs. day program),
Health & wellbeing support (injury prevention, nutrition, psychological support).
Ask: Will you feel challenged and supported? Does the schedule allow time to recover (sleep, have down time)? Is there clear communication about audition criteria, fees, and scholarships? These questions matter more than a famous logo. (Example: some schools audition at different ages; the Royal Ballet School has adjusted its entry pathways in recent years — a reminder that age policies and entry points can change, so always check current info.)
Programs to explore (short intro + what they’re known for)
Below are some well-regarded programs — a mix of Canadian, U.S., and UK options. Use each school’s site for exact dates, age groups, audition rules and fees.
Canada
The National Ballet School (Toronto) — 4 weeks of intense Ballet training as part of its second stage audition for the professional Ballet/Academic Vocational school. Also offers shorter dance intensives.
Royal Winnipeg Ballet School (Winnipeg) — Two- or three-week summer intensives and summer sessions; often identifies students for its year-round programs
Arts Umbrella (Vancouver) — Strong pre-professional intensives and a full-time training pathway with contemporary and classical balance; offers an International Summer Dance Intensive for older teens.
Goh Ballet (Vancouver) — Well-established summer intensive attracting international students; often mixes classical technique, repertoire and performance work.
Alberta Ballet School (Calgary) — Offers summer intensives and pre-professional training with company connections and performance opportunities.
United States
Boston Ballet School — Offers Junior and Senior Summer Dance Programs tailored by age and level, strong faculty and clear pathway into their year-round academy.
Joffrey Ballet School (Grainger Academy & summer intensives) — Intensive programs in New York and Chicago (and other cities) with broad repertory exposure and options for various ages; good for dancers who want diverse stylistic training.
United Kingdom (useful if considering travel or international exposure)
The Royal Ballet School (London)
English National Ballet School (London)
Northern Ballet / Northern Ballet Academy (Leeds)
Elmhurst Ballet (Birmingham)
How to choose — a short checklist
Level alignment: Does the program explicitly state the technical/years of training they expect? Don’t stretch too far beyond your current base.
Hours & schedule: Are they full-day (e.g., 6–8 hours) or half-day? Can your body handle it?
Faculty & guest teachers: Who will teach you? Guest artists can be valuable — find bios if possible.
Audition & acceptance: Is it by audition only? Is there a pre-screening video option? Deadlines matter.
Support systems: Medical staff, nutrition guidance, and mental health support are important for intensive weeks.
Cost & scholarships: Fee ranges vary widely. Check early for scholarship/auditioned-place options.
Practical tips for young dancers
Prepare physically: keep consistent week-to-week training in the months before summer; add cross-training and conditioning to reduce injury risk.
Bring the essentials: proper class wear, spare tights, sewn-in name tags for shoes, water bottle, nutritious snacks, and a small first-aid kit.
Mind recovery: prioritize sleep and short rest breaks; a summer intensive is not a sprint you “power through” without recovery.
Use it as a research project: record what you like/dislike — faculty style, class tempo, feedback tone, boarding life — so you can compare programs objectively.
Talk to alumni: read recent student reviews and, if possible, contact past participants for honest impressions.
Final thought
A well-chosen summer intensive accelerates learning and helps a dancer discover the training environment that suits them best. Don’t let prestige alone decide, prioritize fit, health, and measurable progress