The graceful silhouette of a ballerina balancing delicately on the tips of her toes is one of the most iconic images in dance. To the audience, it looks effortless. Elegant arms, poised posture and pristine pointe shoes gliding across the stage. But behind the beauty of pointe work lies a question that many aspiring dancers and curious onlookers ask. Does it hurt to go en pointe?

In York, finding a school that offers GCSE Dance is no easy feat. Yet, at En Pointe, we’ve made it possible—and exciting—for young dancers to earn a nationally recognised qualification in a subject they truly love.​

When it comes to auditions for the country’s most prestigious dance schools – including Tring Park, Kings International Ballet Academy, London Vocational Ballet School, The Royal Ballet School and Elmhurst – preparation really is everything. While each school has its own set of requirements, from specific video submissions to in-person auditions and professional photographs, one thing remains true across the board: these moments are an opportunity to show your potential, not just your technique.

A Top Of The Pops Dance Performance Is Coming To York — And You Don’t Want to Miss It

A ballet class at En Pointe is more than just dance—it’s a foundation for confidence, discipline, and lifelong friendships. From their very first plié to the thrill of performing on stage, children develop grace, strength, and resilience that extend far beyond the studio. Our nurturing environment encourages creativity and self-expression, helping young dancers believe in themselves and their potential. Whether they pursue dance professionally or simply carry its lessons into everyday life, the experience shapes them in ways that last a lifetime.

Ballet is often seen as a beautiful and graceful art form, but its value goes far beyond elegant movement. Whether for children or adults, ballet classes offer a wealth of benefits, from improving physical health to boosting confidence and discipline. If you’ve ever considered starting ballet, you may have some key questions. Let’s explore what ballet classes can offer and answer some common queries along the way.

At En Pointe, we believe that finding the perfect dance class should be an exciting and stress-free experience. That’s why we offer trial classes, giving you the opportunity to explore the magic of dance before committing to a regular schedule. For just £15, you can try two of our classes and get a real flavour of what it’s like to be part of the En Pointe family. Even better, bring a friend along and share the fun together!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer, having a well-packed dance bag is essential for staying prepared, comfortable, and focused. We know that being ready for class or a performance can make all the difference. But what should you keep in your dance bag? Let’s take a look at the must-haves—both the obvious and the not-so-obvious.