The Royal Ballet School
London · WC2E 9DA
The Royal Ballet School is the world's leading centre for classical ballet training, housed in London's West End with a legacy spanning over a century. It operates as a specialist performing arts school where academic education is integrated with elite professional dance training across multiple levels. The school attracts exceptionally talented young dancers from the UK and internationally, offering structured pathways from junior associates through to professional dancer preparation. As a registered charity, it combines rigorous classical ballet technique with a broad curriculum, preparing students for careers in dance and beyond.
- →World-class classical ballet training integrated with academic education under one roof
- →Direct pathway to The Royal Ballet and major professional dance companies
- →Specialist boarding facilities in central London with strong duty of care protocols
- →Structured scholarships and bursary provision to support talented dancers from diverse backgrounds
Who thrives here
Exceptionally talented young dancers with serious professional aspirations, strong discipline, and commitment to classical ballet technique. This school suits pupils who thrive in specialist environments where dance is the central focus and who can manage the intensive training alongside academic work.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
46 Floral Street, Covent Garden
London
WC2E 9DA
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Lauren Cuthbertson
Principal Dancer, The Royal Ballet
Samara Downs
Principal Dancer, Birmingham Royal Ballet; choreographer
Marianela Núñez
Principal Dancer, The Royal Ballet
Carlos Acosta
Principal Dancer, The Royal Ballet; Director, Birmingham Royal Ballet
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
How do you get into The Royal Ballet School?
The Royal Ballet School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are The Royal Ballet School's exam results?
At The Royal Ballet School, 41.9% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is The Royal Ballet School a boarding school?
The Royal Ballet School offers boarding as well as day places.
What is The Royal Ballet School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated The Royal Ballet School “Excellent” (2022).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓World-class ballet training with access to professional mentors and Royal Ballet expertise
✓Supportive integration of academics with intensive specialist training schedule
✓Inclusive bursary and scholarship provision making elite training accessible across socioeconomic backgrounds
✓Strong pastoral care and safeguarding culture appropriate to boarding specialist school
✓Clear pathways to professional dance careers with direct links to major companies
Common concerns
!Intense competitive pressure and risk of burnout in high-achieving dance environment
!Academic education secondary to dance, limiting breadth for pupils who change career direction
!Boarding away from family during formative years; mental health impacts of professional scrutiny from young age
!Limited diversity of physical body types celebrated in classical ballet tradition
!Uncertainty about post-dance career support for pupils not entering professional companies