On Saturdays 9.30am to 11am. What happens at each class? Class begins with a whole group warm up. Then we split into age/level appropriate groups where school age beginners would usually learn the Highland Fling. We stop for morning tea (provided) and then finish with the whole group practicing their dances to music together. We finish at 11am. At the end of the season we hold a concert. Who teach
es? We have a group of teachers who have diplomas in Highland and National Dancing. They have passed all of their exams and are qualified to teach and judge Highland dancing. We also encourage senior dancers to give teaching a go at the classes. These are students who are still in the process of fully qualifying and are sitting the senior exams. Who can come and watch? Anyone. Friends and family always welcome. If you have friends who would like to try it out, bring them along. Can we try it out before we join? Yes, the first week for beginners is free. Do I have to be there every week? No but we encourage as much attendance as possible so that the children have the maximum teaching time possible and are confident for the concert. Do the classes run during the school holidays? Yes, but we occasionally cancel classes when our teachers will be away at national dancing events. How much does it cost? It is $2 per child per Saturday. One parent must also join the Scottish Society for the year which costs $25. Does my child have to enter competitions? No. We run a competition at the end of the season. If you wish to enter the competition, there is a Piping and Dancing Registration fee, competition entry fees and a minimum dress code – see www.piping-dancing.org.nz for more information. What does my child have to wear? Tidy t-shirt/singlet and shorts/mid -thigh length leggings. Socks or bare feet can be worn initially and then children will feel more comfortable in dancing pumps. There are usually second hand pumps available. Long hair needs to be tied up neatly. We have a stock of costumes we use for the concert. What do you have for pre-schoolers? We run a programme for pre-schoolers which is fun and teaches movement to music. How old do children need to be? The preschool programme is suitable for 3-5 year olds. Older children can start with the Highland Fling. What will my child learn? School age beginners usually start with learning the Highland Fling. Come along and give it a try
