Question 1

Why don’t you offer trial classes?

Accepted Answer

One or two classes is not enough time for a student to truly judge whether this is an activity that is right for them.
 
There is too much that is new to them, not enough time to make friends and be comfortable in new surroundings.
 
Class may be discontinued after a semester, when the next tuition instalment is due which gives the student a fair and reasonable time to make an assessment.

Question 2

Are we committed to the full year?

Accepted Answer

Classes may be discontinued after a semester, when the next tuition instalment is due.

Question 3

May we begin classes mid-year? When is it too late (age-wise) to begin classes?

Accepted Answer

Enrolments are accepted throughout the school year, space permitting. We do our best to place a late starter in the most appropriate class for them. There is no age restriction on the onset of classes - our oldest student is over 65.

Question 4

May my child switch dance forms during the school year?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if there is an appropriate level available and space in that class.

Question 5

Will my child be in a class with her friend?

Accepted Answer

Many factors are considered when placing children in the most appropriate classes. Age is only one factor.
 
Children are placed in the class where they will have the best opportunity to learn, so your child may or may not be at the same level as their friend.

Question 6

How is placement determined?

Accepted Answer

The factors considered are previous training, physical and artistic ability, age, ability to focus and work ethic.

Question 7

Why are there no viewing windows or parents allowed in the classroom?

Accepted Answer

This is very distracting for the students and hinders their focus and learning, even if a viewing window is oneway.
 
Parents are invited to observe regular classes during our Open House before the Christmas Break and again at the end of our year in May/June. In a performance year the June Performance supplants the Open House.

Question 8

Why do you do a year-end Performance every three years?

Accepted Answer

The focus in class is on the learning of dance technique and artistry as opposed to rehearsing and perfecting a dance for a third of the school year. The cost to the families of the costumes, tickets etc. (which has been rapidly rising!) can be a bit much sometimes and so adding these expenses only triennially is a relief to many families!
 
When we do a Performance we can put a great deal of effort into creating a professional show since it is not done every year.

Question 9

Is participation the Performance mandatory?

Accepted Answer

No, all students have the option to not be in the show. “Our Dance Time” students (2-3year old class) do not participate.

Question 10

Why is there a uniform?

Accepted Answer

Uniforms maintain equality and unity and allow students to focus on their work in class as opposed to their wardrobe. Form-fitting, non-distracting attire helps the faculty to assess and correct students’ body alignment and placement. A dress code instills a sense of discipline and a sense of inclusiveness in the class. Proper grooming and attire demonstrates a respect for the art form of dance and the dancer his/herself.
 
Read about our uniform policy.

Question 11

Why no jewellery or nail polish?

Accepted Answer

Jewellery is distracting and is dangerous in a physical activity. Small stud earrings only may be worn.
 
Nail polish is very distracting to the lines of dance. Dance is a visual art form and appearance is important.

Question 12

How will I know the progress of my child?

Accepted Answer

The studio has an Open House before the Christmas Break and again at the end of our year in May/June when parents may observe their children’s regular classes.
 
Students in the Primary and Junior Ballet, Jazz and Acro classes receive a Progress Report in December and June. In a Performance year there is no June Progress Report.
Please feel free to speak to the director regarding your child’s progress.

Question 13

If my child is ill or we are away for holidays do we still pay for classes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are paying for a spot in the class for the school year. See our tuition policy re: refunds.
 
Missed classes may be made up in an appropriate class, if available.

Question 14

When may my child begin pointe?

Accepted Answer

This very much depends on the individual, but no younger than 11 or 12, and only if the student has developed sufficient strength in the feet and ankles.
 
Postural alignment and core strength are also important factors. Bones and growth plates are still developing at this age and so the commencement of pointe must be carefully considered. A student beginning pointe later than their peers can quite feasibly catch up to the students already on pointe. RCSB will advise on pointe shoe fittings and where is best to shop.

Question 15

Are there any other fees other than tuition and uniform?

Accepted Answer

Additonal fees may include:
Performance (every three years and optional participation) costumes in a Performance year.
Performance photos and DVDs (optional purchase)
Performance tickets
Exam fees (optional participation), exam coaching an mock exam.

Question 16

Where can I purchase studio uniforms?

Accepted Answer

Uniform information.

Royal City School of Ballet and Jazz

Frequently Asked Questions About Royal City School of Ballet and Jazz