FAQs

ABOUT US

FAQs

We've put together a list of FAQs to help you along the way. Take a look below:


UNIFORM FAQS

  • Do students wear a uniform

    Yes but there is no need to buy new uniform until the student has outgrown anything they are currently wearing.  Likewise you don’t need to buy new uniform just because your child moves up a class.  Uniform info can be found here:  

  • Do you sell second hand uniform?

    There is a Facebook page for parents to swap/sell second hand items.  You can request to join the group here


  • Where can I get your merchandise?

    There is a link on the website to the merchandise seller 

  • Where can I buy uniform?

    Our nearest dancewear stockist is Dancia in Ewell Village though there are various online stockists too.  Click here for more information

    The only thing that we would definitely recommend buying in person would be ballet shoes as these need to fit closely.

FEES FAQS

  • What are your fees?

    Click here to view class fees.

  • Can I do PAYG or in instalments?

    PAYG sessions are only available for the Adult Ballet class and are charged at a higher rate.  There is, however, the option to pay the termly fees in instalments for all classes.

  • Do you give refunds for missed classes?

    Sorry no, there are no refunds unless the class  is cancelled by the school.  Partial credits may sometimes be given in exceptional circumstances and at the Principal’s discretion.

  • Is there a notice period?

    Yes, half a term’s notice is requested or half a term’s payment in lieu of notice.

EXAM FAQS

  • Are exams compulsory?

    Not at all, but we find that most children enjoy the experience and the sense of achievement.  Not taking an exam, however, will not hinder a student's progression

  • When will my child take an exam?

    There is no set timetable.  Students are always working towards progression but how long it takes them depends on how many classes a week they do, how they are finding the current level of work and other factors such as show work which usually takes up the majority of one term.  Some students might not be ready to take a full exam but could participate in a Class Award which is a less formal assessment, though still in front of an examiner.  Some might prefer to progress to the next class without any formal award.

  • What kind of exams do you do?

    We offer RAD ballet exams and ISTD Tap & Modern exams.  Sometimes a child won't be confident enough to take a full exam (ie without a teacher present) and may opt to take a Class Award instead.

SHOW FAQS

  • How often do you do shows?

    Approximately every two years, usually in the spring term

  • Does everyone take part in the show?

    No.  Children under school age are not asked to take part and for everyone else it’s a choice, though most students love the experience of performing to a live audience full of their enthusiastic supporters!  Most show preparation takes place during class time with additional rehearsals at weekends; students not participating in the show usually enjoy learning the dances with their peers but are not required to attend any other rehearsals.

  • Is there a show fee?

    Yes, an additional fee is requested from those participating in the show to cover upfront costs such as rehearsal venues and costumes

GENERAL INFO FAQS

  • Do you offer free trials?

    Yes we do.  To book a trial ontact the school via our website  or via Facebook or Instagram  You will then be sent a link to register for a free trial.  If you are not sure which is the right class just tell us in your message what you are looking for and we will advise you

  • What does a student wear to a trial?

    Trial students of any age can wear anything which is comfortable to move in, eg leggings and a t-shirt.    Try not to wear anything too baggy.  If you don't have dance shoes please just dance with bare feet, which is safer than dancing in socks, and don't wear any fashion ballet slippers or supermarket ballet shoes which are always far too big.

  • When do your classes run?

    See our term dates here

  • Where are your classes held?

    We hold classes in various Ashtead venues, easily reached from neighbouring areas.  The A24 links Ashtead to Epsom, Ewell and Worcester Park one way and Leatherhead and Dorking the other way.  We can also easily be reached from Bookham and Cobham.  Venues

  • Can we join part way through a term?

    Yes, you can join at any time, subject to availability, and will be charged pro rata.

  • My child is shy - can I stay and watch?

    We hold parents’ watching days once or twice a year when you are invited to come and observe a normal class, as opposed to a show or presentation class.  Otherwise parents are requested to remain outside the class, except in the case of very young children who are struggling to settle or if a child has other needs which require the presence of a parent.  Generally speaking children settle and focus much more quickly if parents are not in the room!

  • What do we need to bring to class?

    It’s a good idea to have a “dance bag” for everything to live in so that items are not forgotten.  Everyone should bring their dance shoes and outfit, if they’re not already wearing it, and any additional items such as hair pins, spray, etc.  A bottle of water is also fine.  There is an Ashtead Ballet School branded bag available which is ideal for this: Merchandise

    Please don't wear dance shoes outside as this ruins the soles.  Treat them like slippers - indoor use only!

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