ABT William J. Gillespie Dance School

The Children's Division of the ABT Gillespie School focuses on building a solid foundation in ballet technique with an emphasis on proper placement and safe progression of movement while remaining sensitive to the developmental needs of younger dancers.

The Children's Division is subdivided into Pre-Primary & Primary Classes (ages 3-8) and Levels 1-3 (ages 8-12+). All classes feature live piano accompaniment by industry professionals, and are led by a talented team of faculty, all certified in the ABT National Training Curriculum.

Serious ballet students ages 8+ must audition for Levels 1 - 3 to pursue pre-professional training. ABT Faculty follow a specific graded curriculum designed to strengthen technique, stamina, and discipline through practical training. Classes are co-ed with the exception of Pre-Pointe/Pointe classes and Men's Class or unless otherwise noted. Pointe work typically begins in Level 3 in the National Training Curriculum. 

Terms and Conditions

The ABT Gillespie School is pleased to offer on-site classes for the 2023-2024 School Year. Students between the ages of 3 – 7 are able to enroll in Pre-Primary & Primary classes during Open Enrollment periods. Students ages 8 and above must be accepted and placed into Levels 1 and above in order to register. For more information, please visit our website or email ABTGillespieSchool@scfta.org. 

Once a class section is full, you will only be allowed to register in the alternate section of the class, or place your child on the waitlist for the desired section. If you are on the waitlist, there is no guarantee that a spot will open up in that desired section. In the event that a spot becomes available, a member of the ABT Gillespie School Staff will be in touch to walk you through the enrollment process. Payment plans are available; an initial deposit of 25% is due upon registration along with the non-refundable $150 registration fee. The remaining amount will be equally divided into payments that will be charged on the 15th of each subsequent month, with the final payment due February 15, 2024.

Pro-Rated refunds are only available for the first two weeks of classes; afterwards no refunds will be available, but all future payment plan installations can be cancelled. Students withdrawing due to injury or illness accompanied with a physician’s withdrawal recommendation may receive a refund. Students dismissed or withdrawing for other reasons are not eligible for a refund. More information on the withdrawal policy and tuition refunds can be found in the Family Handbook. 

Proof of Covid-19 Vaccination is not required for the 2023-24 School Year. All dancers are required to provide up to date immunization records, with standard immunizations.