Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Ballet School in Brighton Since 1946
The Bertram School Of Dance was founded in 1946 by Molly Caulder, who began teaching at age 14 and established the school at 16. Over decades, it became a cornerstone of dance education in Brighton, specialising in Cecchetti Ballet and IDTA Ballet. The school operated from multiple venues, including the Joan Davey Studio and Hanover Community Centre, and nurtured generations of dancers, many from families with multi-generational ties to the institution. As a registered Cecchetti Society teacher and IDTA member, the school maintained rigorous technical standards while prioritising the joy of dance.After Molly Caulder's retirement in the 1990s, Wendy Tucknott assumed leadership, continuing the tradition of excellence until the school's closure in 2024. The school's legacy includes annual competitions, community performances, and a commitment to fostering artistic growth without pressure, reflecting its enduring dedication to dance education.
Services
Ballet Classes
Cecchetti Method
Dance Examinations
Competition Training
Community Performances
Details
- Year established: 1946
Highlights and features
- Established in 1946 with a legacy of dance excellence
- Specialise in Cecchetti Ballet methodology
- Multi-generational teaching expertise
- Registered Cecchetti Society instructors
- Community-focused dance education
Associations and certifications
- Cecchetti Society
- International Dance Teachers Association
What people say
Generational dance tradition
Dedicated instructors
Community performances
Technical excellence
Services
Ballet Classes
Offering structured ballet tuition for children and adults, focusing on Cecchetti and IDTA syllabi. Classes cater to all levels from beginner to advanced, with emphasis on technique and artistic expression. Provides a supportive environment for dancers to develop skills at their own pace.
Competition Training
Specialised preparation for dance competitions including solo and group routines. Trains students in stage presence, technical precision and performance stamina. Encourages participation while maintaining focus on personal progress rather than pressure to perform.
Community Performances
Regular theatrical productions at venues across Brighton including The Dome and local theatres. Offers students practical performance experience in front of live audiences. Builds confidence and stagecraft skills through collaborative productions.
People
Molly Caulder
Founder
Founded the school at 16, pioneering dance education in Brighton. Developed the Cecchetti method tradition and ran annual regional competitions. Taught generations of dancers before retiring in the 1990s.
Wendy Tucknott
Principal
Led the school from the 1990s until 2024, continuing Molly Caulder's legacy. Maintained Cecchetti Society standards while adapting to modern dance education needs. Retired after decades of dedicated instruction.
Questions
Why did Bertram School of Dance close?
The school closed in 2024 following the retirement of Principal Wendy Tucknott after decades of operation.
What dance styles were taught?
Primarily Cecchetti Ballet and IDTA Ballet techniques, with emphasis on classical training and performance skills.
Were examinations compulsory?
No, while we offered examination opportunities, participation was entirely optional and pressure-free.
How long did the school operate?
The school operated continuously from 1946 until its closure in 2024, spanning 78 years.
