BALLET teacher Dale Coles is so dedicated to her craft she has been passing on pointers for more than 26 years.

These holidays she has taken about 100 young ballet dancers under her wing to help perfect their skills.

Mrs Coles, principal of the Toowoomba School of Dance, said the vacation school gave a special opportunity to young dancers.

“The school gives them time to really focus on their ballet without the pressure of coming after school,” Ms Coles said.

The vacation school was host to about 100 young ballet students who included girls and boys from the age of four up to 19.

Many of the older students prepared for exams for the Royal Academy of Dance (London).

Isabella Hood, 15, will be taking this test along with an exam for stage eight of ballet.

“It's been a great help,” Miss Hood said

“Especially having Mrs Coles because she's very knowledgeable and gives a lot of help.”

Although most of the students worked for more than six hours each day on their dancing, Mrs Coles ensured that the students, and particularly the younger ones, were there for a good time as well.

“It is an enjoyable event and we all have a fabulous time,” Mrs Coles said.