Millie3

Thanks for info - think we'll head off to Bristol for the day.

Can anyone recommend a decent fitter in Cardiff who stock a wide range of shoes for dd to try? Thanks

Worktolive - As I stated dd attended a number of years ago. Many of the students at that time already knew a number of the teachers - good to hear class sizes are now smaller.

DD did Yorkshire Assemblies a number of years ago now - her opinion at the time was that the teaching was OK, she felt the children already known to the teachers got the majority of their attention (quite a few of the Yorkshire scholarship students attend). Class sizes were also fairly large, but then this seems to be the trend at a lot of summer schools. However, it was one of the most friendliest courses she has attended - she went on her own. Also the school and grounds are lovely and they were fed well! Can't comment on OPES dd trying that one this year.

DD at 5 started the local dance school - only one in the town. Wouldn't have even thought about looking elsewhere. She always achieved by far the highest marks in all her exams and at 10 went off to audition for vocational school - there we saw the huge range of abilities and found out how competitive the ballet world is. DDs dance school, although supporting her application, never encouraged the children to take part in anything out of their own school. It was a huge money making machine - all costumes/shoes etc bought through the teacher and you had to buy them to take part in the shows (up to 4/5 costumes required each time). DD wanted to do more ballet, so we looked at an associate scheme - however she was told not to mention to anyone that she attended. They did agree for her to attend another school for vocational grades. It was at this school that we realised how very different the teaching was - original school packed them to the rafters, had "helpers" teaching the lower grades and all girls were sold the same pointe shoes. Both schools taught RAD - but what a difference! If you have no knowledge of ballet and have no comparison - I guess local is where people will head.

Are you thinking in terms of ballet or for general dance?

Thank you very much for your comprehensive response swanprincess - It sounds perfect for my dd, I shall forward your reply to her - it's a shame there isn't a class between the inters and seniors, for those working at an advanced level but not currently at vocational school.

DD looking for a different summer school to try this year, which needs to be towards the end of the holidays - from the website this one looks interesting. Has anyone got any first hand experience? Especially regarding class size, accommodation (dormitories or single rooms), general standard of participants ( I note no photos are required), also how many older 16+ students attend?

On the website it says 24th of March.

Was going to say the same 2dancersmum - go up a size, even if the sizing chart indicates you are wearing the correct size. DD went through a stage of laddering all her tights the first time she wore them - now they last for ages

Just a word of warning re ibis budget - it can be full of weekend revellers, so can be very noisy throughout the whole night. It's also very basic - it was like sleeping in a cell with the painted breeze block walls. I'm all for economy rooms, especially when the costs add up so much, but it was the worse night I have ever spent anywhere (and we often go camping!). Perhaps stay there during the mid-week nights then transfer somewhere else for the Friday night. There is a premier inn, near the new arena, which isn't too far to walk each day and 2 children can eat breakfast for free with one paying adult. Otherwise take your earplugs! Trip advisor post over

Lisadebs - has been photo application for those in full-time training and attending associate schemes for Easter school for last few years, not sure about Summer School though.

Yes - Dance activities are in the curriculum for both KS2 and KS1. The coverage of which is most probably very much dependent on the individual schools. My previous school employed a fantastic specialist dance teacher, who taught each year group for half a term. They then performed in the local theatre or other public event- depending on the time of year. However, besides learning the Hakka and a one off class of Indian dancing - I don't think my own children did any dance at their primary school! Another consideration is the removal of funding at a local government level. The county did had a very inclusive dance programme that went into schools, but as with the music it has been disbanded - now ran by private individuals, but nowhere near as comprehensive. I have to agree that in comparison to when I was a child at school, there are more children who really are not co-ordinated (and dare I say unfit!). I had a child in year 3 once who couldn't even do a sideways roll, she could only rock. Too many child spend free time watching TV, playing playstations etc and not participating in any physical activity which in turn does not develop their motor skills etc. Lots of children don't even walk anywhere either - and that goes for the parents too!

MVOBE - dd auditioned for year 7 at all 4 schools - was offered 2 places but without funding. We had never even heard about associate schemes before applying, She was only attending an hour of ballet classes a week at the local dance school - read about the RBS and wanted to go. Her offers just made her more determined to apply for sixth form. I have to admit I thought she'd grow out of it - but no! Spent the next five years driving her around the country to easter/summer schools and associate classes. Also found her a fantastic ballet teacher, although this entailed a long round trip each week - we lived out in the sticks! So basically saying - don't give up (unless ds wants to of course). There are plenty of wonderful opportunities out there for them to progress out of full time training - and you get to keep them at home too! DD was successful at her sixth form auditions and now thoroughly enjoying herself.

Poppy, the train to Taynuilt leaves from Glasgow Queen street - a short walk from Glasgow Central. The school itself is a bit of a hike from the station though!

Interested Parent - For the past few years if DCs attend an associate course they don't have to audition, just send in photos - assume it's the same for this year too.

Rizzo - congratulations to your dd

mad house have sent you a pm

Balletmum20 The first class is ballet then they move on to pointe/body conditioning. Class size varies and I'm sure they will be different from last year. Tea/coffee and biscuits are available if waiting around. If not the area is lovely to explore with lots of walks - across to the park, down the canal or over the downs. Good luck to all new starters, the teaching is great and studios first class, I'm sure you'll all enjoy.

Thanks lildancer - both the date and venue are still to be confirmed according to the letter I received. Can you remember roughly how long they actually dance for? It's going to be quite a logistical undertaking to get there-so want to make sure it's worthwhile before accepting. Thanks

Has anyone's dd/s ever taken part in this? I was just wondering what the actual format is, how long they dance for and whether parents can watch? This is a new one for us - so any further info would be very much appreciated. Thanks Millie

Also dropped dd off for the first time. Hope they all settle quickly.

I hadn't even thought of a student account for dd. She also has the Lloyds TSB account - they can't go overdrawn on it (it automatically stops-so no fees). Unlike student accounts there is no overdraft facility etc. I have suggested that she opens another account with a bit of money in it just in case she loses her card/purse - so she still has access to money. It's just another thing to add to the list to think about! However, it's been great this week as dd has been practising cooking all her favourite meals for us before having to fend for herself. Spag bol being prepared as I type .

The leotard's been sold. Millie

Wear Moi, plum coloured thin strapped leotard for groups 4,5 and 6. Size: ladies small Very good condition. £8 including postage within UK. pm if interested Millie