In September 2021 Relevé Ballet School was founded by the school’s principal, Grace Buskell. Grace had taught ballet on and off for a number of years which inspired her to study for formal ballet teaching qualifications, which enabled her to become a Royal Academy of Dance qualified ballet teacher.

 

During her final year at university, Grace decided that teaching ballet was what she really loved and wanted to make a career out of.

 

Grace’s own ballet experience started at a very young age, when she joined her local ballet school as a four year old. By the age of ten Grace already knew that she wanted to dance professionally and then when she was a bit older she joined a full-time ballet school.

 

While at ballet school she was given her first contract with an American ballet company and then also danced professionally with the London Ballet Company.

 

In the summer of 2021 Grace worked at a kids camp, where she gave out leaflets for her new ballet school. She also advertised in local magazines and offered potential students a free trial day. Very soon after, Relevé Ballet School gained its first students. Classes take place at local venues including Oatlands Village Hall.

 

Today Relevé Ballet school has around 90 students, with the majority being under the age of nine years old. Grace explained that ballet is a good hobby for children to take part in because they can work towards a goal, for example an exam or a show. Ballet also helps their fitness, flexibility, focus and discipline, as well as helping close friendships to be made.

 

Since the school was founded Grace has already added new Pilates and contemporary classes run by specialist teachers. There are many future plans for the school including a show in June 2024, which will feature the hard work of all of the student and teachers. Grace also has the ambition to develop a Relevé branded uniform and secure its own dance studios.

 

I asked Grace what her favourite parts of teaching dance are. She said, “being able to teach other people what I love” and also “seeing the students progress.”

 

Relevé Ballet School has been a great new addition to the local community and has encouraged children to get out and be active after the Covid lockdowns.