CHOOSING A SCHOOL
Find the Class That Fits
You’ll get more from a shortlist when you compare teaching and everyday logistics, rather than relying on performance photos, exam results or trophies alone.
You can use this guide to prepare questions for your teacher or school. It doesn’t replace medical, developmental or admission advice.
Start with your family’s priorities
You might be looking for an enjoyable weekly class, structured learning, performance experience or a more intensive training route. Writing down your priorities can help you compare schools, and those priorities can change over time.
- How does the journey time fit alongside class time?
- How are new beginners placed and supported?
- Are exams and performances optional?
Ask about the teaching
It’s worth asking about the teacher’s relevant training and experience, the typical class size and how students progress. You’ll also want to know how the school handles questions, feedback and a child who needs more time to settle.
- Which syllabus or teaching approach is used?
- Who normally teaches this class, and who covers absences?
- How will the school keep you informed about progress and concerns?
Compare the full commitment
A written fee breakdown and policy summary can help you compare the commitment. The advertised term fee may not tell you everything about the costs or time involved.
- What will you pay for registration, uniforms, exams, costumes and performances?
- How do make-up lessons, term dates and notice periods work?
- Are you comparing the same type of class across your shortlist?