New Students. Enrolment. First Day Information

                                              When can Training Start?

We welcome anyone to start at any age with no prior experience and we will try to accommodate.

We start teaching children at the age of 3, which is a good stable age to start for safe practice, where musical appreciation and basic skills are taught which is an essential part of their development and training. So we introduce Ballet and 'Funky Feet' (where our timetable allows) as both classes are unisex and creative dance disciplines.

At the age of 4/5 years a child’s development and maturity increases, so we begin to introduce other dance styles that need adequate levels of discipline and concentration along with technical understanding and basic co-ordination, like tap, singing, jazz etc..

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                                              Who are the classes for?

We offer classes for those wishing to study just for enjoyment/fitness but also those wishing to improve their dance skills for academic exams (GCSE) and those wanting to persue a career in the industry.  Due to the teachers being professionals themselves plus also qualified teachers, the wealth of knowledge can suit any reason for taking up classes. 

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The more that is studied by a student the more beneficial and skilled they will become, which are lifeskills to help in the future.  All disciplines give different positive physical and mental strengths. Whether the discipline corrects posture, makes their co-ordination or rhythm better, makes their memory quicker or even if it keeps them fit etc.. all put together makes a versatile and more confident dancer, performer and person. 

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                                                    Enrolment Procedure

If you are interested in enrolling yourself / your child with Hertsmere Academy for a Trial, please follow these simple steps: 



Step 1

• Please check our Timetable/Venues page for what we offer. If you need help deciding we give descriptions of classes by clicking the  'Childrens Classes' or 'Adult Classes' button. We also offer DISCOUNT SCHEMES for children wanting to do more.

 

Step 2 

• To register for a Trial, send us an email via the 'Contact Us' button or call the office line between the Business hours.

• Please indicate the age and ability, what style/s of dance and the classes / days / times available for you. Plus if they have had previous experience or taken exams.

• Most classes get booked quickly and we keep to strict numbers. For Safety reasons we cannot accept any child into a class without having them booked in first. If a place cannot be found we have a waiting list and you will be notified ASAP when a space becomes available.

 

Step 3

•  For Adult Classes we have an Emergency Detail Form for you to fill in on your first day.

• For Children/Teens under 18 years, please print and fill in the appropriate enrollment form below and bring it with you on your first day. Please also read a copy of our Full Terms and Conditions to be aware of our Regulations, as you will need to sign the emergency form stating that you have understood them and are giving your concent. A pinpointed copy of the Terms & Conditions will be given to you on the first day as an extra aid. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 4

Trial Sessions:

Dance classes: For the first 2 consecutive weeks, a NEW student pays a reduced rate per class to allow assurance of their commitment and to try as many styles as they like within this time period.

Saturday Classes: As this is a long session, you pay the weekly rate for the first 2 weeks on a non-commitment basis.

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Step 5

We do have a set uniform for safe dance practice but on your trial classes please dress in something suitable ie...

Ballet (3-6years) can dress in a summer skirt/dress, bare feet and leggings for instance.

Other Classes: T-shirt, Leggings and trainers.

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Fee Information: 

 

Fees are paid Termly (approx. 10-13 weeks) and are paid in advance by the deadline given (normally the last date of term), this ensures your child’s place in the school is reserved for the following term. Any outstanding fees or late payment will be subject to a surcharge.

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      What does it take to become a Professional Dancer, Singer or Actor?

 

Please find here a brief idea of what to expect and the paths you can take when wanting to become a professional:

 

The reality is that this industry requires a lifetime of dedication, self discipline, commitment and extremly hard mental/physically demanding work. Only students with a passion and self drive to constantly improve to be the best they can be, learn and remain humble will be able to suceed to a certain level.  It is a skill that cannot be learnt quickly, or parts missed out and becoming famous within 5 minutes is only a dream.  

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It is easier for students to begin training from an early age as they gain knowledge and experience from the beginning and can become more accomplished in all different genres, so it is highly advised but it is not a rule as natural talent can be discovered and nurtured at a later age.  However, the basics fundermentals are key and even top professionals will return to beginner classes to correct vital technical skills. 

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If a child has a passion or flare for dancing and performing, they should be encouraged to study as many different genres as possible as they then can fall into any catagory below giving them the best chance. If a strength is discovered in one particular area then this can be enhanced and guided down the right path by their teacher.

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Currently there are 3 paths that students can follow to earn places in Professional Colleges to continue their training:

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1) 'Triple Threat'  This is Musical Theatre based and requires a High standard of Acting, Singing and all styles of Dance. This is for those wishing for jobs in West End Musicals, Cruise Ships, Disney and all round performing jobs in a theatre or on TV.  

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2) 'Dancers'  All dancers will be expected to have basic singing and acting skills anyway, however the main focus is on all the dance styles available.  The more versitile the dancer in different styles the better chance of getting a job.  These can be from commercials, joining dance companies, being backing dancers, choreographers and jobs where dance is the main focus.

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3) 'Specialists' These are performers who are specialists in one particular genre and will be at an exceptional standard to beat all other competition.  These performers are likely to go to specific colleges or Universities, such as:

Ballet dancers to the Royal Ballet,  Actors to the Guildhall school of Music and Drama, Singers to the Royal Academy of Music etc... They will then find jobs within their studied genre, such as Royal Shakespeare Company or Royal Opera house or Film, TV and Theatre.  

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Professional Colleges, Universities and Stage Schools expect an Intermediate level of drama, acting and dance, (mainly in Ballet, Modern/Jazz and Tap). Strength, Flexibility and a high level of technique in all disciplines are a must!  Showing competency in as many areas as possible will get you picked above the rest!

 

Most professional Colleges and Universities will also give opportunities to learn 'backstage' and other career building skills to ensure students can find jobs within the industry.  These are always highly advised to do as again they stand a performer apart from the competition.  

 

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