Why Choose Us

At Leaping Lizards, we believe dance should be joyful, not stressful. We’ve created a supportive space where kids can be themselves, make friends, and discover the excitement of dance — without the pressure of exams.

Why your child will love Leaping Lizards

A group of five children in green t-shirts, posing in gymnasium-based dance studio
Group of children and teenagers, some in balancing poses, posing for a photo in a dance studio, with a purple wall and wooden ceiling.

No exams, no pressure — just pure enjoyment

We do not offer exams or stick to a set syllabus. This means we can plan our lessons to suit each group, there is no stress about passing an exam or attaining perfection and the classes are never dull or boring! Our teachers are creative and innovative and offer the best tuition with their up-to-date, original lesson plans. Leaping Lizards gives children a strong, fundamental dance technique but focuses on the love and joy of dance and movement.

Group of young girls in green ballet costumes performing a dance on stage with black curtains in the background.
Two women in matching outfits holding a trophy, smiling, standing against a yellow background.

Memorable performance opportunities

Every child gets the chance to perform, whether in a relaxed showcase or a big production

  • Biannual theatre show: a full-scale production with original story, choreography, costumes, props, and set

  • Showcase and Awards Night: a relaxed celebration in alternate years, where dancers show off their skills and are recognised for their growth

  • Community performances: from local fairs to special events, our performance troupes bring the joy of dance to Wellington audiences

  • Competition opportunities: for those who want an extra challenge, performance troupes and dedicated solo dancers can compete at local and national events, gaining valuable stage experience and confidence

A young girl in a red sequined dress performing a jump on a dance stage with studio lights overhead.
Young girl dressed as a fairy practicing with a hula hoop in a gymnasium.

Classes for every age and stage

  • Toddlers & Pre-schoolers: playful first steps into dance

  • Kids: multiple dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop and Lyrical

  • Teens: classes suitable for both beginners and experienced dancers

  • Adults: thanks to our sister school, Spiritus Dance Company, teens who have “aged out” of Leaping Lizards but are not heading into tertiary dance programmes can continue dancing recreationally as adults

Group of children and a young woman smiling in a gymnasium, some wearing green T-shirts with 'Leaping Lizards School of Dance' logo.
A young girl dressed as a fairy with pink wings balanced on a curved rainbow-colored stepping stone in a gymnasium while an adult woman holds her hand for support.

Creative, caring teachers

Our teaching team brings fresh, original lesson plans to every class. With Lorna’s 20+ years of teaching experience at the heart of it all, we focus on inspiring kids while building solid technique and a lifelong love of dance.

Two young girls with colorful hair bows hugging and smiling.
Young girl dancing and smiling at dance practice, holding red pom-poms, wearing a purple lei, black t-shirt, and blue patterned leggings.
Three young girls wearing matching black t-shirts and black shorts standing together in a gymnasium, smiling and posing for the photo.

A supportive dance community

  • Annual school disco, dress-up days, and themed classes

  • Family-friendly events where everyone can join in

  • A welcoming, non-competitive environment where children make lasting friendships

Group of young female dancers in purple sequined costumes posing backstage at a dance competition.

Why Families Choose us

  • Two Wellington locations (Churton Park and Wellington City)

  • Convenient class times with after-school and weekend options

  • Something for every dancer with classes in Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Lyrical

  • Performance and competition pathways for dancers who want to take it further

  • A lifelong pathway from toddlers through to teens — and even into adulthood with Spiritus Dance Company

  • Supportive, inclusive environment where every child feels valued

Come dance with us

See why so many Wellington families choose Leaping Lizards. Book a free trial class today — and watch your child light up with the joy of dance.

Free trial class