Here you will find guidance from PBS Ballet Teachers and hand-picked video clips to help you with pointe work

Expectations of the ‘dancer en pointe’.

Once trained in how to sew and tie your shoes, you are expected to be ready, in your shoes before the start of class. Ideally you will have warmed up before class.

You must be dressed in the appropriate uniform for class, with your hair in a bun and jewellery removed as usual for all classes. 

You should attend all classes – even with injury – as your teacher can advise on how to rehabilitate quickly.

Everybody’s pointe journey is different and you should not be surprised if you move slower or faster than dancers who started at the same time.  Some dancers benefit from having the ‘ideal’ body or feet for pointe work which make progress easier. Pointe progress is improved with regular exercises and dedicated ballet study, we will always review your progress with safety as the first priority, and always help you to reach your potential.

Off-pointe exercises to be completed at home

These exercises will help support your progress en pointe. No matter what level you are (beginner to advanced) we’d recommend regular exercises such as these (click here)

How to sew your shoes

You may be advised by your teacher to add elastic as well – but please wait for their guidance in class once they’ve seen you in your shoes with ribbons. Click here for our suggestions for sewing ribbons on your first pair of pointe shoes. 

How to tie your shoes

click here for our suggestions for new dancers. As you progress, you will find techniques (with the help of your teacher that suit you)

Additional items that might help your pointe work

Various toe accessories like pinky pads, toe spacers, wool, toe pads might make your pointe shoes more comfortable.
Please check with your teacher first. These items reduce space in the shoe and so can add pressure/discomfort.
Elastic – this can help keep the pointe shoe on the foot your teacher will advise if they would like you try this
Pointe Shoe Bag – a breathable bag is required to help prolong the life of a pointe shoe, keeping them out of plastic 
Suede toe tips (not recommended for beginners) please ask your teacher before you consider these. In our experience, it’s rare that the life of the shoe is extended with these and they can cause accidents if they come loose.
Occasionally teachers may suggest and provide products to help maintain pointe shoes (such as shellac). In this case it is expected that parents will supervise/help with application and do so at their own risk.