Helpful Info
Frequently Asked Questions
We know every family is different, and every child is unique.
Here are some common questions about classes, payments, and how we do things at Evolve Dance Collective.
Children can begin their journey with us from age 2.5. I have extensive experience welcoming beginners and their families, ensuring every child feels safe and seen. Parents do not attend classes, as we find this helps little ones bond with their teacher and find their own rhythm. Every child is different, and I work with each family in a unique way to help them settle in comfortably. Sometimes we won't know if a child is truly ready until we dive in, so we can give it a gentle go together and see how they feel. If your child really cannot settle and it becomes clear it isn't for them, I will always let you know. Our goal is a positive experience for every dancer. Click here for information on our Tiny Dancer classes.
What age can my child start dancing?
How do I know which class is right for my child?
You don’t have to figure it out alone. With over 12 years’ experience teaching a wide range of ages and styles, Miss Sam can help match your child to a class that suits their age, experience and personality. You’re always welcome to contact us to chat about your child, their goals and any concerns, and we’ll recommend the classes we feel will be the best fit for them. In the first few weeks, we’ll also keep an eye on how they’re settling in and may suggest a different class if we feel they’d be more comfortable or better challenged in there.
Absolutely. Inclusion is at the heart of Evolve Dance Collective. Please contact us so we can chat about the best class and support for your child. We’ll work with you to understand their needs, make gentle adjustments where we can, and create a calm, encouraging space where they can participate at their own pace.
Miss Sam has experience working with children who are hearing‑impaired and use a radio microphone system that connects to their hearing aids, as well as children with ADHD, Autism and limb differences.
Because we are a small studio, we don’t have the staffing or equipment to safely provide one‑on‑one physical support (for example, lifting or holding children up, or moving them around the room), and we’re not able to accommodate wheelchairs in our classes. We’ll always be honest if we feel we can’t safely meet your child’s needs, to avoid wasted money and unnecessary disappointment for your child and family.
My child has additional needs. Can they join?
Does every child have to do competitions?
No, competitions are entirely optional. At Evolve, we ensure competition training is a separate extra, while our core weekly classes remain focused on pure technical training in each genre. Whether your child competes or not, they are 100% included in all other studio events like our annual concerts. We have no hierarchy here; every dancer is equally valued and has access to the same core opportunities. Choosing not to compete won't change the way they are celebrated in our dance family.
Do all children have to do exams?
Students have the option to take annual dance exams that are based on the work they are already learning in class each week. Participation is completely optional and can be discussed individually to decide what is best for each child and family.
Click here for more information.
Can parents watch the classes?
To support focus and confidence, we don’t have parents stay in the studio to watch every weekly class. It can be hard for children to concentrate with extra adults in the room, and many little dancers will naturally look to their parent for instructions instead of their teacher. It can also feel overwhelming for some children to have a room full of unfamiliar adults watching. Instead, we invite families to special viewing opportunities or 'open classes' and our showcases and performances throughout the year so you can see what your child has been learning.
What happens if my child misses a class?
We know life happens and children may sometimes miss a class. Because we run a small timetable with limited classes for each age and style, we’re not able to offer make‑up classes or refunds for missed lessons. Your child will simply continue with the group at their next scheduled class. We’ll gently support them to settle back in, revisit key steps where needed, and help them feel confident dancing with their class again, without any pressure to “keep up” perfectly.
Do you offer trial classes before enrolling?
Yes. We encourage new dancers to try a class so they can experience our studio, teachers and community before committing. Trial classes are relaxed and low‑pressure, and we’ll always check in with you and your child afterwards to see how they felt and answer any questions. Click here to contact us and book your trial classes.
Can my child start classes mid‑term?
Yes. If you join partway through a term, your tuition will be adjusted so you only pay for the remaining weeks. We’ll gently support your child to settle in, go over key steps where needed, and help them feel comfortable dancing with their new class, without any pressure to ‘catch up’ perfectly.
What payment options do you offer?
Lessons are invoiced by the term, with payment either in full or via a weekly direct debit agreement. Online transfer is our preferred payment method. We understand every family’s situation is different and want dance to be as accessible as possible. If you need a different arrangement or have a specific pay cycle, please reach out so we can chat about options that may work for your family. Click here for more information on lesson payments.
Do you offer sibling discounts?
Yes. We offer sibling discounts for the second child onwards. You can find the full details, including current rates, on our Tuition page. Click here to be taken directly to the information.
Do you have uniform requirements?
We do have a compulsory uniform so children feel like they belong and can move safely in class. This includes items such as leotards, tights, dance shoes and our studio branded outerwear.
When you enrol, we’ll contact you with clear information about what your child needs for their classes and how to order. We handle ths for you and have everything delivered to you at the studio to make the process as easy and stress free as possible for your family.
Are costumes included in tuition fees?
Costumes are not included in tuition fees. There is a separate costume charge for the end‑of‑year concert, usually one costume per dance style that your child participates in. Costumes for performance teams and solos are also charged separately. Click here for more information on approximate costs and payment arrangements.
Do parents have to make or find their own costumes?
No. Parents don’t need to make or source their own costumes. All concert costumes are handled in‑house to take the pressure off families. We take a lot of pride in this area and source or create high‑quality costumes with original designs and personal touches that are unique to our studio. Costumes are handed over fully completed, altered to fit your dancer, gemmed, steamed or ironed, and presented ready to wear on a hanger in a costume bag.