With so many dance schools around it can be difficult for parents to choose the school that is the best fit for their child's lessons!
Here are a few considerations...
Dance styles. Typically school fall into a couple of categories; those that offer Ballet, Modern, Tap and commonly now; Acro, or those that offer Latin and Ballroom. What style of dance are you looking for?
Qualifications. Regardless of style, the school you attend should have teachers with a demonstrated commitment to their own education and training. These are some of the most common and trusted organisations who offer training for dance teachers; RAD, ISTD, IDTA, BBO, Acrobatic Arts. Additionally teachers may hold a BA Hons in a dance or theatre subject.
Exams. If you're looking for a class for your toddler, this might not be high on your agenda but it's always worth seeing what is on offer as they progress through the school.
Competitions. As with dance styles, again schools tend to fall into 2 categories; those that compete and those who don't. Latin and Ballroom traditions are rooted in competition but a lot of ballet, modern, tap, acro schools compete too.
Ethos / Expectations. Some schools are super serious, some are super recreational, some are happy mix. Things that may help you see where a school falls on this scale are; Does the school have rules on attending multiple classes? Does the school have a very strict dress code? Does the school complete nationally or internationally? Does the school have an agency? Where do they hold their annual shows?
Performing. Most dance schools produce some sort of annual or bi annual show, however the scale of these productions varies considerably... before enrolling in a school it would be useful to know what sort of rehearsal commitment is expected, costume costs, ticket costs, performance times so you don't encounter big surprises along the way!
Personnel. It is important that you respect and like your child's dance teacher! Do they communicate well with you and your child? Are they a positive role model? Do you trust them?
Best Fit. I'm a firm believer there is no "best" school or "best teacher" , rather there are lots of really good schools and really good teachers, what you need to find is the best fit for your child.
And lastly...when, where and how much are the classes?!
If you would like further information on the classes we offer, simply get in touch!
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