THE SCHOOL AT
Refining Technique. Developing Artists.
The School at MBT offers a structured ballet curriculum for students committed to their training. Through progressive instruction, individualized guidance, and high expectations, dancers develop the technique, artistry, and discipline needed for advanced study and performance.
Lower Division
Designed for dedicated young dancers, the Lower Division emphasizes proper technique, musicality, and healthy physical development. Students build the skills and confidence needed to progress through the ballet curriculum at a pace that supports long-term success.
Age ranges are approximate as a general guide.
Foundations
Ages 6-8
Builds the fundamentals of ballet through proper technique, coordination, musicality, and classroom discipline.
Level 1
Ages 7-9
Introduces more structured ballet training while developing strength, alignment, flexibility, and technical precision.
Level 2
Ages 9–11
Expands technical vocabulary and artistry as dancers build greater strength, control, and confidence through increased training.
Level 3
Ages 11–12
Serves as the bridge to pointe work, emphasizing advanced technique, pre-pointe conditioning, artistry, and performance readiness.
Dancers are placed in either Level 3B for pre-pointe training or Level 3A for pointe work based on faculty recommendation.
Upper Division
Designed for dedicated dancers, the Upper Division emphasizes technical refinement, artistic growth, and performance excellence. Students continue to strengthen their technique while advancing their pointe work, exploring additional dance styles, and participating in expanded performance and competition opportunities.
Level 4
Strengthens pointe technique while expanding artistry, versatility, and technical proficiency through increased training and additional styles.
Level 5
Refines advanced technique, artistry, and performance quality while building the strength and stamina required for higher-level training.
Level 6
The Pre-Professional Standard at MBT
Represents the highest level of the School, emphasizing technical excellence, artistic maturity, and pre-professional preparation through rigorous training and performance experience.
Program Details
The School
The MBT School provides progressive, pre-professional ballet training for dedicated dancers, with levels designed to prioritize readiness over age, technical mastery over speed, and confidence through consistency. The School is divided into Lower Division (Foundations–Ballet 3) and Upper Division (Ballet 4–Ballet 6), with training increasing in intensity and focus as dancers progress.
Consistent ballet training supports the development of strength, alignment, coordination, artistry, and technical precision, while expanded training and performance opportunities allow dancers to continue challenging themselves. Level 6 represents MBT’s pre-professional standard, preparing dancers for continued professional training, a career in dance, or personal mastery.
Students in The School are eligible to perform in The Nutcracker, the Spring Ballet, and the end-of-year Spring Performance. Informal and community-based performances may be available throughout the year.
All School programs require faculty placement. Students may schedule a free placement class to determine the appropriate level.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Every dancer's journey is unique. Our faculty will help determine the class that best matches your student's age, experience, and readiness. Schedule a free placement class today and discover the next step in your dancer's training.