- What should I wear?
- What if I can't dance?
- What do I do if I don't have a partner?
- Which class should I go to?
- How much do lessons cost?
- How much does membership cost?
- What are medal tests?
- Are the medals an official qualification?
- Are dance exams compulsory?
- How do I know if I am ready to take a medal exam?
- How difficult are medal exams?
- What do I do if I have a question which isn't answered here?
What should I wear?
There is no need for any special clothing or footwear for classes, just make sure you wear something you feel comfortable dancing in and shoes that won't slip on the floor. Ladies may find it easier to dance in small heels. If you are planning on joining the team, we would encourage you to invest in a pair of dance shoes as you will find them much easier and comfortable to dance in, we can point you in the right direction if you're interested in purchasing a pair.
What if I can't dance?
There's no such thing as can't! That's what our beginners class is for - you might find you surprise yourself! Our classes are informal and friendly and there is plenty of help available during the classes and in our open practices where more experienced society members are more than happy to help you with anything.
What do I do if I don't have a partner?
Very few of our members join the society with a partner, so there is no need to worry, in fact, it is a much better way to meet new people if you don't have a partner. There will be lots of partner switching during the classes so you will have the chance to dance with lots of different people and you will always get the chance to dance with somebody. If you choose to join the team and dance competitively, then our teachers will find you a partner during team trials.
Which class should I go to?
If you have never danced any Ballroom or Latin American, then the Beginners class is for you. If you have done other types of dancing before, but not ballroom, or find the Beginners class too basic, then we recommend the Advanced Beginners. If you have passed your bronze level exam, have been dancing for approximately one year, or are finding the Advanced Beginners too simple, then you should try the Silver/Gold class. The Intermediate class is our highest level and open to anyone who is above Gold standard, has been dancing for multiple years and wants to learn the unrestricted syllabus. Our Technique, Argentine Tango and Rock 'n' Roll classes are open to all levels and the Acro Rock 'n' Roll class is for all those of you interested in lift work.
How much do lessons cost?
Lessons are approximately £2.50 an hour and can be paid on a termly basis for a reduced price. This money is used to pay for professional teachers, but please check the lesson timetable for a price breakdown by class.
How much does membership cost?
Annual membership to the society and the Guild of Students costs £5. This money is used for equipment and to cover insurance.
What are medal tests?
They are tests held by ABD which we work towards in classes. They give a formal assessment of your dance level and ability, aimed at social dancers and make a wonderful addition to your CV.
Are the medals an official qualification?
Yes! After your test you get a certificate and medal from ABD which recognises your ability and standard of dance at a particular level.
Are dance exams compulsory?
No. The exams are a qualification demonstrating that you can dance to an official standard and are completely optional.
How do I know if I am ready to take a medal exam?
The best person to ask is one of the professional dance teachers hired by the society. They will normally tell people when they are approaching the level required to do well in a medal test in lessons and they will never put forward anyone they are not confident will do well.
How difficult are medal exams?
If you are already at the level required the exam should not be too difficult, in fact you may even enjoy the opportunity to showcase what you have been learning during your classes.
What do I do if I have a question which isn't answered here?
If you have any more questions, please feel free to email the committee.