The intermediate and middle school years are filled with growth, change, and new opportunities. Our Intermediate & Middle School dance program provides a positive, encouraging environment where dancers can continue developing their technique while building confidence and nurturing a growth mindset, resilience, and lifelong friendships.

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As dancers mature, classes become more challenging and rewarding, encouraging students to set personal goals, work as a team, and discover what they're truly capable of as artists, athletes and people. Just as importantly, they become part of a supportive community where they develop communication skills, learn to encourage one another, navigate friendships, and experience the sense of belonging that comes from being part of something bigger than themselves.

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Whether your dancer is training recreationally or dreaming of performing at a higher level, our experienced faculty provide personalized instruction that helps every child feel successful.

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These years help form strong dancers who become confident leaders, supportive teammates, and resilient individuals who carry the lessons they learn in the studio into every aspect of their lives.

Junior 1 

Age 10 by Oct 1

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Building Confidence Through Challenge

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Junior 1 dancers continue strengthening their technique and physical abilities. Students develop greater strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and body awareness while learning more complex movement patterns, and expanding their dance vocabulary. As their confidence grows, dancers also begin refining and growing their musicality, performance quality, and artistic expression as emerging artists.

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Just as importantly, Junior 1 encourages greater independence and personal responsibility. Students are challenged to embrace new skills, persevere through obstacles, and celebrate progress along the way. Every accomplishment helps build the confidence that comes from discovering, "I can do hard things."

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Classes Offered:

• Jazz/Lyrical Combo

• Ballet

• Acro

• Tap

• Hip Hop

• Aerial

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Junior 2 

Age 11 by Oct 1

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Growing Stronger Together

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As dancers continue to grow, they continue refining both their technique and their artistry. Junior 2 encourages students to think critically, support one another, develop their artistic creativity and identity, and develop the discipline that leads to long-term success. Strength and flexibility, of body and mind are developed. Every class helps dancers build confidence while strengthening friendships and a true sense of belonging.  In this level, the bridge between learning steps and understanding dance is beginning to form for some dancers.

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Classes Offered:

• Jazz/Lyrical Combo

• Ballet

• Acro

• Tap

• Hip Hop

• Aerial

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Preteen 1

Age 12 by Oct 1

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Discovering Their Potential

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Preteen 1 is a time of tremendous growth, both as dancers and as individuals. As students mature, they continue refining their technique while developing greater strength, stability, flexibility, and control. Dancers are introduced to more advanced movement, longer and more intricate combinations, increased turns and leaps, and greater emphasis on artistry, musical interpretation, and performance quality. They also learn to apply corrections independently, developing the confidence and discipline that lead to long-term success.

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These years often bring new challenges both inside and outside the studio. Our teachers create a positive environment where dancers feel supported as they navigate change, build resilience, and learn that progress comes through patience and consistent effort. Along the way, students strengthen leadership skills, encourage their teammates, and discover that their greatest potential comes not from being perfect, but from believing in themselves and continuing to grow.

flourish.

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Classes Offered:

• Jazz/Lyrical Combo

• Ballet

• Tap

• Acro

• Hip Hop

• Aerial

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Preteen 2

Age 13 by Oct 1

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Rising to the Challenge

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Preteen 2 serves as the bridge between our middle school and high school programs, helping dancers prepare for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. At this level, students continue refining their technique while building greater strength, control, flexibility, endurance, and artistry. Classes emphasize precision, quality of movement, performance skills, and the ability to execute more challenging combinations with confidence and intention. Dancers are encouraged to take ownership of their training by applying corrections independently, setting personal goals, and developing healthy habits that support continued growth.

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Beyond technical development, Preteen 2 is about preparing young people for success both inside and outside the studio. As dancers become role models for younger students, they strengthen leadership skills, learn to communicate respectfully, support their teammates, and contribute to the positive culture that makes NHAD feel like home. Through every class, they build resilience, self-discipline, and the confidence to embrace new challenges.

 

By the end of Preteen 2, dancers finish the year with more than stronger technique. They leave with the character, work ethic, and self-belief to thrive in high school and in our High School Program.

 

Classes Offered:

• Jazz/Lyrical Combo

• Ballet

• Tap

• Acro

• Hip Hop

• Aerial

 

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Your Intermediate & Middle School Dance Questions, Answered!

 

Is it too late for my child to start dance in middle school?

Not at all! While some students have been dancing for years, it's not uncommon to seek out a new activity in late elementary or middle school. Our teachers create a welcoming environment where dancers are encouraged to learn at their own pace, build confidence, and celebrate progress. In our upper levels, we have different levels to accommodate different levels of interest and experience.   We can help place your child in the class where they'll feel challenged, supported, and successful.

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What if my child has danced before but is returning after taking a break?

Welcome back to dance! It's very common for students to return to dance after trying other activities. We'll evaluate your child's previous experience and recommend the level that will help them rebuild confidence while continuing to grow.

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My child is involved in sports and other activities. Can they still dance?

Absolutely! Many of our dancers successfully balance dance with sports, theater, music, and other extracurricular activities. Dance complements many activities by improving strength, flexibility, coordination, balance, discipline, and confidence.  We have different levels and commitments that work for everyone!

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My child is shy or having a hard time socially. Can dance help?

Many parents find that dance becomes a place where their child truly feels they belong. Through teamwork, shared goals, and supportive teachers, dancers develop friendships, communication skills, and self-confidence in an environment where they are encouraged to be themselves. The studio often becomes a second home during these important middle school years.

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Does my child have to compete?

Not at all. Our dancers receive high-quality instruction in a supportive environment without any expectation to compete. For dancers who are interested in additional performance opportunities, we'll happily discuss our competitive programs and help determine if they're the right fit.

 

What should my dancer wear to class?

Each dance style has its own dress code to ensure dancers can move safely and instructors can provide proper technique corrections. You can view our complete dress code here, and our onsite boutique carries everything your dancer needs for class. You can also shop our online boutique here!

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