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Pre-pointe and Pointe Policy

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines and safety standards for dancers who wish to engage in pre-pointe and pointe work. Pointe work is an advanced ballet technique that requires specialised training and physical readiness. This policy aims to ensure the wellbeing and safety of our students while participating in pointe work, promoting injury prevention, and maintaining a high standard of dance education.

Scope

This policy applies to all ballet teachers at Dragonfly Dance, and all students who wish to engage in pointe work. It covers the requirements, procedures, and responsibilities related to pointe work training and participation.

Definitions and Acronyms

Students

Anyone who participates in dance classes, workshops or masterclasses at Dragonfly Dance.

Classes

‘Classes’ is used to refer to classes, workshops, masterclasses, and rehearsals organised by Dragonfly Dance.

Teacher

Anyone contracted to teach dance activities for Dragonfly Dance.

The studio

Dragonfly Dance studio space.

Pointe work

A ballet technique in which a dancer supports their body weight on the tips of fully extended feet, wearing specially designed pointe shoes, either at the barre or in the centre.

Pre-Pointe

The stage of training before beginning pointe work, focusing on building strength, alignment, and technique required for dancing en pointe.

Pointe readiness

The physical and technical prerequisites a dancer must meet before commencing pointe work to reduce risk of injury.

Pointe syllabus

A document that outlines the progressive training and exercises designed to develop a dancer’s skills and technique in pointe work. The syllabus may include specific exercises, combinations, and variations tailored to different levels of proficiency.

Policy

Readiness for pointe assessment

Before beginning pointe work, all students must undergo a comprehensive pre-pointe assessment to assess the student’s physical condition, strength, alignment, and technique.
The assessment considers age, training history, pointe range, foot/ankle control, intrinsic foot and calf strength, pelvic/core control and ballet technique.
The assessment is conducted using the Dragonfly Dance ‘Readiness for Pointe’ assessment checklist by an experienced ballet and pointe teacher at Dragonfly Dance.
The assessment generally takes about 30-45 minutes.

Acceptance into pre-pointe and pointe class

Before commencing pre-pointe or pointe class:

A student must have at least a couple of years ballet technique training before commencing pre-pointe.
If the student is an existing Dragonfly Dance student, they should initially talk to their regular ballet teacher, who will have a discussion with the pre-pointe or pointe teacher.
If a student is new to Dragonfly Dance, they must undergo a pre-pointe or pointe assessment to ensure the class is suitable for them.
If a student has done pointe previously, they do not need a pointe assessment, but Dragonfly Dance reserves the right to take them out of pointe shoes if the pointe teacher believes they do not possess the physical condition to perform pointe work safely.

Pre-Pointe Training

Dancers who express an interest in pointe work but are not yet ready will be encouraged to participate in pre-pointe training classes. These classes will focus on strengthening the feet, ankles, legs, and core, along with improving overall ballet technique.

Physical Condition and Age

While the studio caters to adult dancers, it is essential to recognise that age can still be a relevant factor in pointe work.

Adult bodies may have different physical considerations and limitations compared to younger dancers. Therefore, all adult dancers, regardless of age, must undergo a thorough physical evaluation to determine their readiness for pointe work.

Individualised Approach

Recognising that adult dancers have unique physical characteristics and varying levels of prior dance experience, the transition to pointe work will be approached with an individualised plan.

The teacher will consider each adult dancer's specific needs and adjust the training accordingly to promote a safe and gradual progression to pointe work.

Age-Appropriate Modifications

The teacher will take into account the age of adult dancers when planning pointe classes.

Age-appropriate modifications and considerations will be incorporated to accommodate potential differences in strength, flexibility, and recovery abilities among the adult student population.

Injury prevention and conditioning

Given that adult bodies may require additional conditioning and preparation, the studio will emphasise injury prevention techniques.

Warm-up exercises, strength training, and conditioning drills will be included in classes to help adult dancers develop the required muscle strength and control necessary for pointe work.

Pointe Shoe Fitting

Students must be fitted with appropriate pointe shoes by a professional fitter to ensure proper support and fit for each dancer's unique foot structure.

Progressive Training

Pointe work will only be introduced to students who have demonstrated sufficient strength, technique, and control during their pre-pointe training.

The transition to pointe work will be gradual and progressive, with a focus on injury prevention.

Injury Reporting

In the event of an injury related to pointe work, students must report it to their teacher or the studio director immediately. Appropriate measures, such as rest, medical attention, or rehabilitation, will be implemented as needed.

Responsibilities

Director of Dance

Setting the policy and procedures around pre-pointe and pointe training.
Ensure the policy adheres to safe dance practices.
Approve the policy and review annually.
Consult with teachers and students as to the relevance of and adherence to the policy and amend the policy as and when required.
Circulate the policy to teachers and students and publish the policy in a manner which is accessible to members of the general public.
Take reasonable steps to ensure the policy is adhered to in all dance activities overseen by Dragonfly Dance, either directly or through delegated authority.

Ballet and pointe teachers

Be aware of the Dragonfly Dance Pointe Policy and related policies and procedures.
Adhere to the guidelines and procedure outlined in the policy.
Communicate the policy to others if required.
Advise the Directors if the policy requires amendment.

Regular Ballet Teacher

The regular ballet teacher is responsible for assessing the student's progress and readiness for pre-pointe and pointe work during regular ballet classes.

They shall communicate with interested students about the pre-pointe training process, including any specific exercises or preparations needed before transitioning to pointe work.

Pointe Teacher:

The pointe teacher, if different from the regular ballet teacher, will be responsible for conducting the specialised pointe training classes.
They must closely monitor students during pointe classes, provide individualized corrections, and ensure the students' proper development and safety while dancing on pointe.
Provide appropriate pointe and pre-pointe training that adhere to safe dance practices and are based on the individual needs of each dancer.
Closely monitor students during pointe class and provide adjustments and support as required to maintain a safe and effective training environment.

Communication and Collaboration

The regular ballet teacher and the pointe teacher should maintain open communication regarding each student's progress and challenges during the pre-pointe and pointe training.

They should collaborate to create a comprehensive training plan that addresses the individual needs and goals of the student, ensuring a seamless transition into pointe work.

Students

Adult dancers must actively participate in the physical assessment process and follow any recommendations made by teachers or health care providers (eg dance physiotherapist).
They should communicate openly with their teachers about any physical discomfort, concerns, or injuries related to pointe work.
Be aware of the Pointe Policy and adhere to the guidelines and procedure outlined in the policy.

Procedure

Procedures for teachers:

Communication: It is important that the student’s regular ballet teacher and pre-pointe/pointe teacher communicate about the student’s progress. The regular ballet teacher must be consulted before a student starts pre-pointe or pointe.

Conduct assessment: Conduct a thorough pointe readiness assessments for students expressing an interest in pointe work, using the Dragonfly Dance document ‘Readiness for Pointe Assessment’.

Provide feedback: Offer individualised feedback to each student based on the assessment, outlining areas of improvement and recommendations for further training.

Monitor Progress: Regularly assess students' progress in pre-pointe training and communicate with the Director of Dance about potential candidates for pointe work.

Approve Progression: Jointly decide with the Director of Dance whether a dancer is ready to begin pointe work based on the established criteria.

Syllabus: Design classes and units based on the Dragonfly Dance pointe syllabus (class format and approach, levels, and exercises).

Procedures for Students:

Express interest: Inform your ballet teacher if you are interested in starting pre-pointe or pointe work. Your teacher will advise you of the process, and give you an initial indication of whether pointe work may be suitable for you. As your regular teacher knows your physical condition and technique best, they should be your first pointe of call, not the pointe teacher.

Pointe readiness assessment: Participate in the pointe readiness assessment as scheduled by the studio.

Pre-pointe training: If not yet ready for pointe work, attend pre-pointe training classes as recommended by your teacher.

Progression to pointe: Follow your pointe and regular ballet teacher’s guidance and work diligently to achieve the required level of strength and technique for pointe work.

Demi pointe shoes: It is recommended that students purchase demi pointe shoes to wear in their regular ballet class (at least at the barre) to help strengthen their feet and get them used to the feeling of pointe shoes. However, demi-pointe shoes are not required.

Shoe fittings: Dancers should make a booking at a reputable point shoe fitter to be fitted for both demi-pointe and pointe shoes.

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Dragonfly Dance Studio Director of Dance and amended as appropriate.