ballet
Throwback Thursday: Celebrating Our Brilliant Ballerinas at the RAD Exams
30 November 2025 · 3 min read · Updated 2 March 2026
TL;DR
MOUVE by Dancing with Louise in Hendon, NW London prepares children for official Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet exams — from Grade 1 through to Intermediate level. Our students recently travelled to RAD headquarters for their exams, demonstrating the poise, technique and confidence they have built through dedicated weekly training in our family-focused ballet classes.
Key Takeaways
- Students sit official RAD ballet exams at the Royal Academy of Dance headquarters
- Exam levels range from Grade 1 to Intermediate
- RAD syllabus develops technique, musicality, artistry and performance confidence
- Classes run within a 30-minute radius of Hendon, NW4
- Pre-school ballet through to advanced training available
More than a dance school, more like a family.
Last week was a truly unforgettable moment for our young dancers at MOUVE by Dancing with Louise, as our talented ballerinas travelled to the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Headquarters for their official RAD ballet exams. It was a day filled with excitement, elegance and the kind of confidence that only grows from genuine hard work and encouragement.
From our graceful Grade 1 ballet students to our dedicated Intermediate ballet dancers, each child stepped into the exam studio with poise, focus and a spark of joy that made us beam with pride. Their commitment to technique, musicality and performance truly shone — a testament to the exceptional standard of ballet training for children in NW4 that our community is known for. We are proud to offer kids ballet classes in North West London, ensuring every child has the opportunity to shine.
At MOUVE by Dancing with Louise, watching our dancers grow, progress and reach incredible milestones like these is at the heart of what we do. As a family-focused ballet school, we've always believed that nurturing confidence, belonging and friendships is just as important as nurturing beautiful dance technique. And last week, every student embodied that spirit. Learn more about our story.
Girls, you absolutely smashed it. Your teachers and the entire MOUVE family are so proud of you.
Why Do RAD Exams Matter for Young Ballet Dancers?
Parents looking for kids ballet classes in North West London often ask what makes RAD exams so special. The Royal Academy of Dance syllabus gives children structure, clear goals and a meaningful sense of progress.
Through preparation for RAD exams, dancers develop:
- Strong and safe classical ballet technique
- Musicality and artistry
- Confidence performing independently
- Discipline, commitment and resilience
- A deep love of dance that lasts a lifetime
These are exactly the qualities we nurture through our children's ballet classes in North West London, where every dancer feels supported, encouraged and celebrated. The benefits of dance for children extend well beyond the exam studio.
What Makes MOUVE Feel Like a Family, Not Just a Ballet School?
MOUVE by Dancing with Louise is more than a dance school, more like a family.
Parents choose us not just for our joy-filled ballet classes for kids in North West London, but for the friendships, belonging and community spirit their children experience every week. Our annual events and showcases are highlights of the year — giving every dancer a chance to perform on stage.
Whether your child is just starting their ballet journey or preparing for RAD graded exams, our warm and welcoming environment ensures they always feel encouraged to shine.
What Ballet Classes Does MOUVE Offer in NW4?
We offer a wide range of classes for children of all ages, including:
- Pre-school ballet — from 18 months in parent-and-child sessions
- Beginner and graded ballet
- RAD exam preparation
- Intermediate and advanced training
For older children, our teen dance programme keeps the momentum going as they progress through the grades.
Our classes run within a 30-minute radius of NW4, making MOUVE by Dancing with Louise one of the most accessible and community-focused choices for kids ballet classes in North West London.
To join our family and discover why so many parents recommend us as their preferred ballet school in North West London, get in touch:
Visit: www.makeamouve.com
Email: info@dancingwithlouise.com
Call: 0333 038 4858
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MOUVE prepare children for RAD ballet exams?
Yes — MOUVE by Dancing with Louise is a registered RAD exam centre. Children are prepared through structured weekly classes and sit their exams at the Royal Academy of Dance headquarters in London. Levels range from Grade 1 through to Intermediate.
What age can children start ballet at MOUVE?
Children can start ballet from 18 months old in our parent-and-child Tinies Ballet sessions. Pre-school ballet classes are available from age 3, with graded and exam-track ballet continuing through to teen and intermediate levels.
What does the RAD ballet syllabus teach children?
The Royal Academy of Dance syllabus builds strong classical technique alongside musicality, artistry and performance confidence. Children also develop discipline, resilience and self-belief through working towards clear exam goals.
Where are MOUVE ballet classes held?
MOUVE by Dancing with Louise is based in Hendon, NW4, and serves families across North West London. Classes run within a 30-minute radius, making it one of the most accessible choices for kids ballet in the area.
Can my child join ballet classes without doing exams?
Absolutely. While many of our students choose to work towards RAD exams, all children are welcome to enjoy ballet classes at their own pace. The focus is always on building confidence, friendships and a love of dance.
