This is by choice and not because we can't. Lorna has taught examination work previously in RAD, I.S.T.D, NZAMD and Broken Beat syllabus in both the UK and New Zealand, and our teachers are very capable of learning syllabus work and teaching it to the children. At Leaping Lizards we strive for perfection whilst enjoying the freedom of dance. By not offering exams we can focus on sharing our love of dance through creative, original, up to date choreography that never gets boring. This means are classes are fun and not stressful for the student.
Did you know that Dance schools in the States do not teach set syllabus work? And they produce some of the finest dancers in the world!
Leaping Lizards teachers constantly offer feedback and constructive criticism in class and are always available to offer written feedback or updates on the students if required.
Can any child attend a Leaping Lizards dance class?
Yes! Leaping Lizards caters for 2 years and upwards, girls and boys and we are open to involving children with special needs, just ask!
Is previous dance experience necessary and how do I know which class my child will prefer?
No previous experience is required. Our classes are designed for the age of the child, and you can see the class descriptions on our "Classes" page. All classes are designed to be fun, as well as cover fundamental dance technique and children find the moves get easier with practice. Trial classes are free so your child can try them out before you commit to a term. If you still have questions, please contact Lorna for advice and answers.
How much are the classes?
The cost depends on the class duration. Please see our pricing page for details. All classes are charged for the term from when the child enrols and are required to be paid before the term begins/straight after the trial class. You will receive an invoice to pay internet banking. All prices include GST. Late fees are applied if applicable.
Is there a uniform?
Yes, there is a uniform for the majority of classes. A uniform is helpful in many ways. It makes the children feel part of the group, it is simple and appropriate to dance in, so there is no distraction of clothing and putting on the uniform and tying long hair back signals to the child that dance class is ready to begin and gets them in the zone.
Hip Hop - Leaping Lizards uniform T-shirt. Black leggings, trousers or shorts. Bare feet or non-marking sneakers.
Lyrical, Jazz and Tap - Leaping Lizards uniform T-shirt. Black leggings for girls. Trousers or shorts for boys. Bare feet or foot undies for Lyrical, Jazz shoes for Jazz classes, Tap shoes for Tap classes.
Ballet - Leaping Lizards uniform Ballet dress or shorts and leotard for boys and Ballet shoes. Ballet tights and Ballet socks are optional.
Where does my child get a Leaping Lizards T-Shirt or Ballet Dress from?
Once your child has decided they would like to join Leaping Lizards you can order a T-shirt or Ballet Dress through Lorna. You are asked to purchase the uniform within the term your child joins the school.
T-Shirts and Ballet dresses are different colours depending on the age group. Which makes moving up a class much more excited as they become a different colour!
We also have a Facebook resource group where you can buy and sell second hand dance items. Access to this is available to parents of enrolled Leaping Lizard students only.
Does my child need Ballet, Jazz or Tap shoes for their first class?
No. Students are welcome to try out the classes first before investing in dance shoes. For Jazz and Ballet classes bare feet are best and for Tap, sneakers will be fine. We understand that dance shoes can be expensive. Therefore, students may dance without the correct shoes for up to one term to give them time to know the class is right for them. There may also be an option to borrow some shoes depending on items we have in our collection.
We also have a Facebook resource group where you can buy and sell second hand dance items. Access to this is available to parents of enrolled Leaping Lizard students only.
You can order your dance shoes through Leaping Lizards for a much lower price than you will pay at a dance store. Ask Lorna for more details. We also have a Facebook resource group where you can buy and sell second hand dance items. Access to this is available to parents of enrolled Leaping Lizard students only.
Class sizes generally depend on the style of dance and the age of the dancers. Our classes are typically anywhere from 8-20 students per class.
Is there an opportunity to perform?
Yes. Leaping Lizards School of Dance puts on a yearly recital or showcase. This brings all the dance classes together in a fun, energetic show. There are also Jazz troupes and Hip-Hop crews for the more serious, dedicated, committed student and these groups compete regularly in competitions and entertain crowds at local events. Involvement in these groups is by invitation only or audition and members must also regularly attend Leaping Lizards dance classes.
Is it okay to take dance classes but not perform in the end of year show?
There is absolutely no pressure to be involved in the annual show, (although it is a lot of fun!). Dancers are welcome to continue with classes throughout show term even if they do not wish to be in the show.
Can parents watch their child's class?
Parents may watch their child's first class. After that parents are asked to either drop children off or wait in the designated area. We find this is much less distracting for the students and they behave and learn much better. We offer class viewings half-way through the term and at the end of the term where you can come and watch what we have been working on.
We do, however, understand that all children are different. If your child needs a little more time before attending the class without a parent in the studio we work with you to make this happen.