Frequently Asked Questions

What age can my child begin Highland Classes?

 

For the 2024-2025 season, we'll be accepting children ages 4+.

 

 

What age is too old?

 

No age is too old if you are physically fit, and are able to practice on your own time at home.

 

 

How big are the classes?

 

Up to 6 students per class.

 

 

What do I need to wear for class?

 

Primary/Beginners (ages 4-8):  Body Suit & Tights or Knee socks, Highland Ghillies.
Beginners - Adults (ages 8-adult):  Shorts (above the knee), t-shirt/tank, knee socks, and Highland Ghillies

 

No jewelry allowed.  Hair MUST be pulled back into a ponytail or braid and off your face.

 

 

Can I watch my child while they're in class?

 

As I teach from my home, and in the basement, I do not have a separate space for parents to stay and watch.  Parents are encouraged to bring their child to the many Dance Outs (performances) throughout the year.

 

 

What if my child is sick or cannot attend class?

 

Please refrain from bringing a sick child to class.  If they are unable to participate or are contagious, they should not be attending.

 

 

If we miss a class, can we come for another one?

 

There will be NO refunds for missed classes and NO make-up classes.

 

 

Why only 1 class a week?

 

Students are asked to practice on their own time to develop their skills, technique, steps and dances.  Beginner Dancers should practice a minimum of 3 times a week, whereas Advanced Dancers (and competitive dancers) should practice 4-5 times a week.

 

 

Is the instructor qualified?

 

Yes,  Andrea Goral is a qualified Highland Dancing Instructor with the BATD (British Association of Teachers of Dancing).  Andrea is an RECE as well (Registered Early Childhood Educator).  For more information, please check out 'About Andrea Goral' tab.

 

 

I heard there are Exams.  What are these and when are they?

 

Andrea Goral follows a Syllabus with the BATD.  Andrea encourages dancers to take exams each year to broaden their knowledge of Highland Dancing.  We prepare for the examinations throughout the year.  These exams are NOT included in your yearly fees.

Dance Bag Checklist

Dance Garment Bag

 

Highland Outfit

 

  • Kilt
  • Highland Hose/socks
  • Vest/Jacket
  • Blouse or Lace Dickie
  • Black Undies – Full Bum
  • Highland Shoes
  • Garters (elastics) - to hold up socks/hose
  • Suspenders

 

National Outfit

 

  • Aboyne Outfit or white dress
  • Blouse
  • Petticoat
  • Tartan Sash
  • Brooch
  • Skirt
  • White Undies – Full Bum
  • Plaid
  • Vest
  • White Knee Socks or Pantyhose

 

 

Miscellaneous (in your dance bag)

 

For All (indoor/outdoor) Competitions:

 

  • ScotDance World-Wide Registration Card (if competing) – without it you cannot compete
  • Safety Pins
  • Bobby Pins/Hair pins
  • Hair nets
  • Hairspray and/or gel
  • Elastic bands
  • Shoes laces or elastics
  • Nail clippers
  • Make-up
  • Baby Powder
  • Pain Killers
  • Hair brush or Comb
  • Sewing kit
  • Scissors
  • Change of clothes and shoes

 

For Outdoor Competitions:

 

  • Umbrella and lawn chair
  • Sunscreen
  • Overshoes = clogs/flip flops
  • Sand paper
  • First Aid Kit
  • Hand towel
  • Water bottle with water!
  • Small tarp
  • Dance mats – Foam

 

For Recreation/Recitals:

 

  • Name Tag
  • Change of clothes and shoes
  • Sand paper
  • Hair brush or Comb
  • Safety Pins
  • Bobby Pins/Hair pins
  • Hair nets
  • Hairspray and/or gel
  • Elastic bands
  • Shoes laces or elastics
  • Nail clippers
  • Make-up
  • Baby Powder
  • Overshoes = clogs/flip flops

 

AND MOST IMPORTANT BRING YOUR SMILE  😄

 

GOOD LUCK!!!