FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What kind of dance should I do?

If your child is of preschool age, we recommending trying one of our Under Fives classes. These classes focus on the fundamentals of dance technique, presented in a fun, lively environment perfect for children of this age. 

If you are torn between Jazz (and other styles) and Classical ballet, it is important to realise that beginners undertaking either of these styles will focus on similar skill acquisition, and we almost always recommend starting with ballet as the learning environment is gentle and more focused. Contemporary dance is an excellent complement to any type of dance training, and ensures that the student has a good understanding of body-mind connection and a sense of weight and space. 

Please feel free to speak to one of our staff members or email us to find a class that is perfect for you or your child.

How do I know what level to choose?

For the most part with older students, the ideal level is judged by age and school level, though on occasion, if previous experience applies, one of our teachers would need to make an assessment on the appropriate level. This is usually done by making an initial class/level suggestion and making a determination from there. Our priority is to find a class that appropriately challenges the student so that they will never be put in a class that is not stimulating or too difficult.

Please feel free to speak to one of our staff members or email us to find a level that is perfect for you or your child.

Do you have classes "just for fun"?

Whether you or your child are looking for a career pathway in dance and performing arts or classes "just for fun", we can cater for you. Though we have Audition School and Extension Program arms of the school, we do not distinguish between classes that prepare students for examinations, competitions or recreation. We believe that, where physical training and the body in motion is concerned, the quality and standard of dance tuition should remain high. All our classes are devised for enjoyment in a friendly, social environment, while encouraging students to strive for their best and to achieve their goals. 

Can I do a trial class?

No matter what children’s* class you are looking at, their first class at Turning Point Dance is always free of charge. This enables you to make an informed decision about whether the class, style and level are right for you or your child, and there is no pressure to enrol on the spot. Your teacher will have a chat with you directly after class to see how you enjoyed it, and one of our friendly members of staff will follow up during the week following your trial to give you options and help you through the next step. We have a Fact Sheet available for any questions you may have!

*Unfortunately we are unable to offer free trial classes to adult students.

What is the uniform?

Please see our Uniform Guidelines for further information on uniform requirements. This sheet also outlines the dance wear stores we recommend. We have stock on hand in many uniform items including leotards and tights, and further orders can be made via our Parent Portal. Any store you choose will be able to assist you with your purchase, and all of our teachers are trained to give you advice about shoe fittings and other needs.

What are the costs?

Our fee schedule is available here. Classes are competitively priced and we offer the highest standard of dance tuition at beautifully appointed studio facilities. In addition to term fees we ask for a one-off, annual enrolment fee of $60 per student (discounts apply for families and siblings).

As a performing arts training establishment, we believe all students should have the opportunity to showcase their hard work and therefore expect that our students will participate in our end of year concert. While all other performance costs are built into our fee structure, we add a $30 fee per term, per enrolled dance genre to assist families in covering costume costs. We know our families appreciate these little details that help ease the financial burden at the end of the year.

Do you do competitions?

While we are not specifically focused on Competitions and Eisteddfods as an outcome, we encourage and support students to pursue performance opportunities that interest them providing they still represent the school. Competitions have guidelines and rules that must be followed in order for a student to be eligible for entry, and we insist that a student is enrolled in appropriate classes, enabling them to focus on technique and classwork rather than sacrifice their usual training regime for competition purposes. Training privately for competition solos will enhance a student's training. Please see a staff member or sign up to our newsletter to receive all the latest information on competitions.

WHAT about exams?

Turning Point Dance is unique in that it offers examination entry under two syllabi, Australian Conservatoire of Ballet (ACB) and the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). Not all students choose to undertake examinations, but those who do, generally participate in both modes and have an advantage in that they are likely to be more adaptable and resilient students who pick up new ideas and material more quickly. We require examination candidates to enrol in all the classes available to their class and level on the timetable (i.e: a minimum of 2 classical ballet classes per week for Pre-Primary to Grade Four students). Students choosing not to undertake examinations will not be at any disadvantage as our technique classes are all designed around these syllabi regardless.

Is there a performance?

If you are a fully enrolled student we assume that you will be participating in the annual performance and all Turning Point Dance students are encouraged to do so. As students of a performing arts discipline, we see that participating in a live performance experience makes sense and enables the student to fully appreciate and celebrate their hard work over the year. Please see our Studio Guidelines for other information regarding our annual performance.

How do I enrol and pay?

Enrolments, fee and other payments can be accommodated via our Turning Point Dance App. We encourage our families to take advantage of all the features of this software as we utilise it to communicate and assist our school community in many ways. Our Thebarton studio reception is also staffed on Saturdays and most evenings and while we do not accept credit card payments we accept cash payments and bank transfers. These details can be found on our fee schedule.