Ages 9–12 | Pointe Pathway Assessment

Is your dancer ready for the next step?

City Ballet of Maryland’s Pointe Pathway Assessment is designed for dancers ages 9–12 who are ready for more focused ballet training, stronger technique, and preparation for pointe work.

This assessment helps us understand each dancer’s current level, strengths, training history, alignment, coordination, flexibility, strength, and readiness for continued classical ballet development. From there, we recommend the best class placement and training path for the upcoming season.

The Pointe Pathway is ideal for dancers who are interested in ballet, pointe preparation, performance opportunities, and a more structured training environment.

Class Offerings

Dancers placed through the Pointe Pathway may be recommended for a combination of classes based on age, ability, and readiness.

Ballet

Ballet is the foundation of the Pointe Pathway program. Dancers focus on posture, alignment, musicality, placement, coordination, strength, flexibility, and classical ballet vocabulary.

This class helps dancers build the technical foundation needed for more advanced training, including pre-pointe and pointe preparation.

Pointe / Pre-Pointe

Pointe and pre-pointe training are introduced when dancers demonstrate the necessary strength, alignment, control, and consistency in ballet technique.

Dancers may begin with pre-pointe preparation before advancing to pointe work. The goal is to help dancers progress safely and confidently with proper technical support.

Modern

Modern dance helps dancers develop freedom of movement, strength, musicality, expression, and body awareness. This class supports ballet training by encouraging dancers to move with greater range, dynamics, and artistry.

Jazz

Jazz introduces dancers to rhythm, style, coordination, flexibility, and performance quality. This class helps dancers build confidence, stage presence, and versatility while continuing to strengthen their overall technique.

Acrobatics

Acrobatics focuses on strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and safe skill progression. Dancers work on age-appropriate acrobatic movement that supports confidence, body control, and performance versatility.

What We Look For During the Assessment

During the Pointe Pathway Assessment, dancers may be evaluated on:

Basic ballet technique
Posture and alignment
Turnout and placement
Core strength and control
Foot and ankle strength
Flexibility and coordination
Musicality and focus
Classroom readiness
Previous dance experience
Pointe or pre-pointe readiness

The assessment is not about perfection. It is designed to help us place each dancer in the best environment for their growth.

Who Should Schedule an Assessment?

This assessment is recommended for dancers who:

Are ages 9–12
Have previous dance experience
Are interested in ballet or pointe
Want stronger technique and training structure
May be transferring from another studio
Are ready for a more focused class environment
Need placement for the 2026–2027 season
Would like guidance on their next step in dance training

New students are welcome.

Assessment Details

Pointe Pathway Assessment | Ages 9–12
By appointment
Dancers should wear ballet attire and bring ballet shoes. Dancers who already own pointe shoes may bring them, but pointe shoes are not required for the assessment.

After the assessment, families will receive a recommended placement and next-step training plan.

Schedule Your Pointe Pathway Assessment