Choosing a dance school is a big decision. You want somewhere your child will be safe, well taught and happy, and somewhere they’ll look forward to going every week. But when every school’s website looks bright and friendly, how do you tell them apart?
We’ve been teaching dance in Sheffield since 2004, and these are the things we’d look for if we were choosing a school for our own children.
1. Teachers who are qualified in the style they teach
It’s worth asking what qualifications the teachers hold, and in which styles. Many dance teachers gain a single qualification and then teach every style on the timetable. Ballet, tap and acro each have their own technique, and a specialist will know how to build it safely and properly.
At Hype: our teachers are specialists, each qualified in the style they teach. Our graded classes follow International Dance Teachers’ Association (IDTA) (opens in a new tab) syllabuses, taught by teachers who know them inside out.
2. Safety and safeguarding you can see
Any good school should be able to tell you, without hesitation, how it keeps children safe. Look for DBS-checked teachers, proper insurance, first aid cover and clear safeguarding policies.
At Hype: every member of staff is DBS checked and insured, and our staff are first aid trained. We have a Lead Safeguarding Officer and a full set of written policies, including child protection, safeguarding, safe touch, photography and filming, and mental health and wellbeing. We’re also getting a public defibrillator outside our studios, thanks to the British Heart Foundation (opens in a new tab).
3. A chance to try before you commit
The best way to know whether a school is right is to try it. Be wary of anywhere that asks for a full term’s fees before your child has even taken a class.
At Hype: new starters in our termly classes can try three weeks pay as you go before committing to a full term.
4. Proper studios
Dance is physical, and the floor matters more than most people realise. A sprung floor absorbs impact, protecting growing joints and reducing the risk of injury. Hard floors, like concrete or tiles under thin flooring, aren’t suitable for regular dance. Look for mirrors and barres too, and a studio that’s warm in winter and cool in summer, so muscles stay safe and everyone stays comfortable.
At Hype: all three of our studios have sprung wooden floors, a full wall of mirrors, wall-mounted double ballet barres plus free-standing barres, and professional sound systems. They’re centrally heated for the colder months, with fans to keep everyone cool in summer.
5. Class sizes where your child gets noticed
In a very large class, it’s easy for a child to get lost at the back. Smaller classes mean the teacher can correct technique, encourage quieter children and get to know every dancer.
At Hype: our classes are small, usually up to 15, so teachers get to know every child and how they’re progressing.
6. Somewhere to grow
Think about the long term. Is there a clear path from first steps to more advanced levels? Can your child work towards exams if they want to, or just dance for fun if they don’t?
At Hype: children can start with Creative Dance & Play from age 3, then move on to IDTA graded classes, from the first pre-graded levels right through to Intermediate. Our junior and teen drop-in classes are a relaxed way to dance without the commitment of a term or the rigidity of a syllabus and exams.
7. Chances to perform
Performing builds confidence like nothing else, whether it’s a showcase for parents or a big stage. Ask how often children get to perform, and whether it’s open to everyone or only a few.
At Hype: our pupils have the opportunity to perform in an annual showcase and other smaller shows throughout the year. Our competition teams offer an extra challenge, and our dancers take part in events across Sheffield, from the nationwide Tapathon to opening a professional dance show at the University of Sheffield Drama Studio theatre.
8. A happy, welcoming atmosphere
This is the one you can only judge in person. Watch a class if you can. Do the children look happy? Are they encouraged rather than pressured? Does the teacher know their names? Are parents kept in the loop?
At Hype: we’re warm, welcoming and inclusive, and we always have been. Our online portal keeps everything you need in one place, from booking classes to keeping your child’s details up to date.
Questions to ask before you join
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Are the teachers qualified in the styles they teach?
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Are all staff DBS checked, and is there a safeguarding lead?
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Can my child try a class before I pay for a full term?
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What kind of floor do the studios have?
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How many children are in a class?
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Are there exams, shows or competitions, and does everyone get the chance to take part?
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How will you keep me updated about my child’s progress?
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Can I watch a class?
Why families choose Hype
For over 20 years, Hype Dance has helped children across Sheffield discover a love of dance. We’re a not-for-profit dance school in Shalesmoor, close to Kelham Island and the city centre, with classes for ages 3 and up in ballet, tap, modern jazz, acro, contemporary, commercial and musical theatre.
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Specialist teachers, each qualified in the style they teach
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DBS-checked, insured, first aid trained staff, with a full set of safeguarding policies
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Three well-equipped studios with sprung floors, mirrors, barres and professional sound
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Small, friendly classes
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A clear path from age 3 to Intermediate, plus relaxed drop-in classes
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Shows, competitions and performance opportunities throughout the year
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A three-week pay-as-you-go trial on termly classes
Our studios are on the first floor and there’s no lift, so if you have any access needs, please get in touch and we’ll do what we can to help.
Come and try a class
The best way to find out if Hype is right for your child is to come and see for yourself. Take a look at our timetable for kids and teens, or get in touch and we’ll help you find the right class.