The Judith Keyes School of Ballet was established in 2016 by Founder and Artistic Director, Miss Judith Keyes. Since then, it has grown into a place where children and young people not only learn to dance, but also build confidence, form lasting friendships, and develop a lifelong love for movement and the arts. Each pupil is encouraged to develop both emotionally and artistically as they progress through the school.

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A defining strength of JK Ballet is its seamless progression pathway, from walking age through to pre professional level. Regardless of age, ability, or ambition, the school offers a complete and supportive journey for every dancer. Classical Ballet is taught through the Associated Board of Dance A.B.D. syllabus, where we proudly maintain a sustained 100% examination pass rate, with all pupils in the Summer 2025 session achieving Merits or Distinctions. Pointe work is delivered through the NPAA syllabus, providing a structured and progressive approach to advanced classical training. Alongside this, we are equally committed to those who dance for enjoyment, fitness, and friendship, offering non examination classes that focus on confidence, wellbeing, and a genuine enjoyment of dance.

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Every class at JK Ballet is personally taught by Miss Judith, giving families the reassurance of continuity, individual attention, and consistently high quality training. As a fully qualified teacher with both the Associated Board of Dance (A.B.D.) and NPAA, with extensive experience preparing pupils for examinations, performances, and competitions, she brings both expertise and care to every class.

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Under her guidance, dancers continue to achieve outstanding results. Pupils have excelled in A.B.D. examinations, performed at the A.B.D. Scholarship Awards in Birmingham, and gained national recognition. Most recently, two JK Ballet pupils were ranked among the Top 100 dancers in the UK at the 2025 UK Young Dancer Classical Awards.

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The school’s achievements have been recognised across the dance community. JK Ballet was named a finalist for Highest Performing Ballet School at the 2024 NI Dance Awards. In 2025, Miss Judith was nominated for Dance Teacher of the Year at the Golden Dance Awards, while the Judith Keyes School of Ballet was named a Finalist for Ballet Dance School of the Year.

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Dancers at JK Ballet benefit from a wide range of opportunities, including recreational classes, graded examinations, medal tests, competitions, and stage productions. Our most recent showcase took place in December 2025 at the Courtyard Theatre, and we look forward to returning in December 2026. Alongside training, we place strong emphasis on the social side of dance, offering discos, themed camps, and special events that allow pupils to build friendships and lasting memories.

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Beyond ballet, Miss Judith is a Northern Ireland and Ulster Champion Irish dancer and founder of the Judith Keyes School of Irish Dance, a proudly cross community school that welcomes dancers from all backgrounds. Many pupils train in both disciplines, developing versatility, musicality, and performance strength. She is also a qualified Level 3 Personal Trainer and Level 2 Group Exercise Instructor, bringing valuable knowledge of strength and conditioning to support dancers in building resilience, stamina, and overall performance.

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At JK Ballet, every dancer is known and valued, and given the attention needed to progress with confidence. While we take pride in our achievements and the quality of training we provide, we are equally focused on developing each individual, helping them grow in confidence, creativity, and self belief within a positive and motivating environment.

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Based in the heart of Glengormley, Newtownabbey, JK Ballet welcomes families from across a wide surrounding area. Many pupils travel significant distances to train with us, reflecting the reputation and results the school consistently delivers. Whether just beginning or continuing their training, every dancer will find a professional and welcoming environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive.