🩰 Pointe Program

Strength • Artistry • Dedication

Pointe work is a refined and advanced form of ballet, known for its grace, precision, and strength. While it may appear light and effortless, pointe requires years of technical training, physical readiness, and unwavering commitment.

Dancers must develop the muscular strength and body alignment necessary to support their full weight on the tips of their toes—on an area no larger than a square inch—while maintaining poise, balance, and control. Proper preparation and technique are key to progressing safely and successfully.

Who Is Ready for Pointe?

Pointe is not just about age—it’s about readiness. Only students with:

• A strong foundation in ballet technique

• Sufficient core, ankle, and leg strength

• Consistent alignment and turnout

• Instructor approval based on safety and physical development

…will be invited to begin pre-pointe or pointe training.

With expert instruction and properly fitted pointe shoes, students can safely progress from foundational exercises to advanced variations—with elegance and without injury.

Our Program Structure

At FDS, we offer four levels of pointe training, designed to meet dancers at their current skill level and help them progress at a healthy, individual pace. Class placement is determined by:

• Technique and strength evaluation

• Age and experience

• Instructor assessment

• Commitment and consistency in ballet classes

Dancers may remain in the same level for multiple sessions to ensure mastery before moving forward.

Pointe Class Notes

• Pointe students are required to take multiple ballet classes per week

• Ongoing evaluation ensures students are progressing safely

• Pre-pointe students begin with conditioning and barre work before transitioning to full pointe

• Pointe shoes must be approved and professionally fitted before first use

Pre-Pointe Readiness Checklist

Before beginning pointe work, dancers should demonstrate consistent strength, technique, and discipline. Use this checklist to determine if a dancer is ready to begin Pre-Pointe Training:

Technique & Alignment

✅ Can maintain proper ballet alignment at the barre and in center work

✅ Demonstrates correct turnout from the hips, not the knees or feet

✅ Holds posture with engaged core and elongated spine

Strength & Control

✅ Has strong ankles, feet, and toes with visible muscle engagement

✅ Can rise slowly and steadily in relevé on one foot

✅ Has solid balance and control in demi-pointe positions

✅ Shows strength and stamina in jumps and center combinations

Ballet Training Commitment

✅ Has at least 3–4 years of consistent ballet training

✅ Attends 2+ ballet technique classes per week

✅ Follows classroom etiquette and applies corrections

🩰 Pointe Shoe Fitting Guide

Properly fitted pointe shoes are essential for safety, comfort, and healthy progress. To make sure every dancer is set up for success, FDS will schedule the pointe shoe fitting appointment for you, and your ballet teacher will attend to guide the process.

What to Expect

• FDS will coordinate your fitting appointment with a trusted professional pointe fitter

• Your FDS ballet teacher will attend the appointment to ensure the selected shoes are appropriate for your foot shape and technique level

• Please bring ballet tights and wear your usual classwear

• Allow 30–45 minutes for a personalized fitting experience

What We Look For

• Snug but not painful fit—no toe curling, gaping, or pressure points

• Proper coverage with toes lying flat inside the box

• Platform should sit flush with the floor in relevé

• Heel stays securely in place—no slipping

• Shoe selection is based on individual strength, alignment, and anatomy

📝 Pointe Training Agreement & Parent Acknowledgment

Supporting Safe & Successful Pointe Progression

As part of our commitment to safety, excellence, and dancer development, FDS requires all students enrolled in Pre-Pointe or Pointe Training to complete a Pointe Training Agreement & Parent Acknowledgment Form.

This form outlines our expectations, safety protocols, and training standards—ensuring every dancer is prepared, every parent is informed, and every teacher is supported in guiding progression responsibly.

What’s Included in the Agreement

✅ Weekly class attendance requirements

✅ Instructor evaluations and readiness criteria

✅ Injury prevention and communication expectations

✅ Shoe fitting, maintenance, and instructor approval policies

✅ Dancer commitment to focus, safety, and respect

✅ Parental support and studio policy acknowledgment

How to Complete the Form

The agreement is available for download below.Please download, print, and sign the form, then return it to the FDS office at your earliest convenience—prior to your dancer’s first pointe-related class.

If you have any questions or need assistance with the form, our staff will be happy to help during class hours or via phone/email.

Thank You for Partnering With Us

Pointe is a beautiful and challenging next step in a dancer’s journey—and your support helps make it a safe, empowering experience. We’re excited to guide your child as they rise with strength, confidence, and grace.

Important Information

📌 Classes are subject to change or cancellation based on enrollment and teacher availability. Families will be provided with suitable alternative options if needed.

Elevate Your Ballet Journey

Pointe work represents a significant milestone in a dancer’s journey—one of discipline, grace, and achievement. When a dancer is truly ready, the experience is both safe and magical.

👉 Inquire About Pointe Placement or Enrollment