FAQ
Find quick answers to common questions about our classes, enrolment, fees, and what to expect at Leaping Lizards.
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This is by choice and not because we can't.
Lorna has taught examination work previously in RAD, ISTD, 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 our classes are fun and not stressful for the students.
Did you know that dance schools in the USA 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 critique in class and are always available to offer written feedback or updates on the students if required.
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Yes! Leaping Lizards welcomes all children from age 2 and up, of all genders and abilities. We’re committed to creating an environment where every dancer can thrive. If your child has special needs, please let us know when booking your free trial so we can make sure they feel supported and comfortable.
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No dance experience is required. Our classes are designed for the child’s age and focus on having fun while building fundamental dance skills. Children find the moves get easier with practice.
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Trial classes are free, so your child can try different styles before you commit to a term. Start by having a read of the class descriptions. If you’re still unsure, feel free to contact us for advice.
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Class fees depend on the duration of the class and can be viewed on our pricing page.
Fees are charged by the term from the time your child enrols and are due before the term begins.
Your child’s trial class is free. If you decide to enrol afterwards, we’ll send you an invoice for the term fees, with payment required before your child’s next class.
All prices include GST. Late payment fees apply if invoices aren’t paid on time.
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Yes! Most Leaping Lizards classes have a uniform.
Wearing a uniform helps children feel a part of the group, keeps clothing simple and comfortable for dancing, and signals that class is starting — helping them focus and get “in the zone”.
Tying long hair back is part of the uniform, so it stays out of the way while dancing.
Hip Hop: Leaping Lizards uniform T-shirt. Black leggings, trousers or shorts. Non-marking sneakers.
Jazz/Lyrical: Leaping Lizards uniform T-shirt. Black leggings or shorts. Bare feet, Lyrical shoes or foot undies for Lyrical, Jazz shoes for Jazz classes.
Ballet - Uniform is typically a Leaping Lizards ballet dress for girls, or shorts and leotard for boys, however students may choose the option they're most comfortable in. Ballet tights or ballet socks are optional. All students must wear ballet shoes.
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Once your child decides to join Leaping Lizards, you can order a T-shirt or Ballet Dress as part of the enrolment process. We ask that the uniform be purchased within the term your child starts.
T-shirts and Ballet Dresses come in different colours for each age group, which makes moving up to a new class extra exciting — your child gets to wear a new colour as they progress!
We also have a private Facebook resource group where parents of enrolled students can buy and sell second-hand dance items. This link will be provided upon enrolment.
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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 sneakers for Hip Hop.
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.
You can order new dance shoes through Leaping Lizards for a much lower price than you will pay at a dance store. Please contact us for 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. Link will be provided upon enrolment.
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You can order your dance shoes through Leaping Lizards for a much lower price than you will pay at a dance store. Please contact us for 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. Link will be provided upon enrolment.
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Class sizes depend on the style of dance and the age of the dancers. Our classes are typically anywhere from 8-20 students per class.
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Yes. Leaping Lizards holds a full-scale theatre show every two years, bringing all classes together in a fun, energetic performance. In alternate years, we run a more relaxed Showcase and Awards Night to celebrate students’ progress.
For more dedicated students, Jazz troupes and Hip-Hop crews perform at local events and compete in competitions. Participation in these groups is by invitation or audition, and members are expected to attend regular Leaping Lizards classes.
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There is absolutely no pressure to be involved in the theatre show or showcase (although they are 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.
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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.