Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child trial a class before enrolling?

Every student is able to complete two trial lessons before committing to enrolling for the year. We find that this is the best way to make sure that the class is suitable for you and your child and that they enjoy it. Register your interest today and we will get back to you as soon as we can to arrange your trial lessons.

Does my child need a uniform?

Uniform is compulsory for all students at our school from ages 3 and upwards (this excludes children in our 2 – 3 year old classes AND students taking part in our Adult Dance Programs). We have a uniform because we want all students to avoid the distraction of multiple costumes, frills, fabrics and straps. It is also important for the teacher to see how the dancer is implementing the technical aspect of the steps being taught, lines the dancer is making with their arms and feet and how all of the dancers are working together in a group. Finally, uniform makes all the dancers feel equal, prevents dance class feeling like a “fashion parade” with pressure to have the latest brand dance wear and above all builds respect and discipline for the art form. All uniform items are available for purchase from our Burwood studio (including leotards & shoes) however it is not necessary for your initial trial period. During trial periods at TDS, any comfortable clothing easy to move in is most appropriate (e.g. leggings, t shirt or any leotard you already own) and bare feet are fine if you do not own dance shoes yet. Our uniform shop opening hours are seasonal so it is best you contact us for current opening hours before popping in.

What does my child bring/wear to class?

• Necessary dancing shoes
• Dance clothes
• Bottle of water
• Extra pins and elastics
• Shoes to wear to and from class (different from dance shoes)

Does my child need to practice?

In order to improve we all need to practise especially when exams, competitions or shows are approaching. All dancers should practise at home each week and gently work on their flexibility each day to improve, build on their skills and achieve their dance goals. Ask your teacher how!

Does my child need to attend classes regularly?

It is essential that classes are attended consistently. If students frequently miss classes, it is difficult for them to catch up on what they may have missed and it is also difficult for other students to work around those who are missing. Dancing is a team sport like any other.

How is information relayed to parents and students?

We rely heavily on email and social media to get our information out! It is therefore important that we have your best email contact and that you please check your emails regularly. We often post on social channels with the latest news so make sure you like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram. Also keep an eye on the noticeboard in the waiting room as information is also relayed through this board. Other items of interest are also put on the board relating to outside workshops, summer & winter school, and specials on dance wear 🙂 

Is it compulsory to do examinations?

Examinations are not compulsory but are offered to those in the RAD stream. The Royal Academy of Dance is an independent dance education organisation examining Graded and Vocational ballet studies for students from 7 years of age. We also offer Internal Assessments to our classical students as well as Theatrical examinations and assessments. Exams give students and parents an idea of how they are progressing and the standard of their work. It also gives the students a standard to aim towards. Our students have a 100% pass rate for externally examined syllabi from the Royal Academy of Dance, with many students achieving Distinction and High Distinction marks, thus demonstrating a high standard of technical execution by students from The Dance Studio. Our school has a 100% pass rate for examinations with many students receiving high results up and thus our technical standard is quite high.

Do parents have to sew costumes?

There is no sewing required. We have extremely beautiful and high quality costumes for hire by the students at concerts and competitions at a fraction of the cost of buying. Parents really appreciate not having the expense of buying new costumes each year.

Can’t find the answer to your question?

We’ve done our best to address all of our most commonly asked questions – but if you feel we’ve missed something or you want to enquire further, please contact us by clicking here!