How do I join?

To join NHAD please use the contact page to tell us your child’s name, age, level of experience and what type of classes they would like to try. We will then email you back with suitable class times so that your child can come along to try classes for a couple of weeks, which will be completely free of charge. You must however submit the online registration form before your child attends so that we have any important information before teaching your child.

After your two free trial classes there is no obligation to continue however your child has a place in the class if they wish to join.

Which classes are suitable for new starters?

The following classes are all particularly suitable for new starters. There are also lots of classes on our timetable page for those who already have experience. If you cannot find what you are looking for, please message us. The age groups are approximate and students in these classes who have experience may be of a younger age.

Tuesday

5:30 - 6:15 - Acro - Year 2 and above

Wednesday

4:15 - 4:45 - Grade 1 Tap (Year 2)

4:45 - 5:30 - Grade 2 Ballet (Year 3 and 4)

4:45 - 5:30 - Grade 1 Tap (Year 2)

5:30 - 6:15 - Grade 2 Modern (Year 3 and 4)

5:30 - 6:15 - Grade 1 Ballet (year 2)

6:15 - 6:45 - Grade 2 Tap (Year 3 and 4)

Thursday

4:45 to 5:30 – Junior Jazz (Year 3 – 6)

5:30 to 6:15 – Junior Musical Theatre (Year 2 – 8)

Saturday

9:00 to 9:30 – Pre School Ballet (age 3 – 4 pre school)

9:30 to 10:00 – Pre Primary Ballet (age 4 – 5 reception)

10:00 to 10:45 – Primary Modern and Tap (Reception and year 1)

10:45 – 11:15 – Primary Ballet (Year 1 and 2)

Do you offer classes for adults?

We aren’t currently offering any classes for adults

How much do classes cost?

Please see our fees page.

Do I have to give notice?

Yes. 6 weeks notice or 6 weeks payment in lieu is required to withdraw from any class.

What should be worn for the trial classes?

When you try out classes you can wear any comfortable leotard/ t-shirt/ leggings/ shorts and bare feet. If you are trying out tap some school shoes are helpful.

New students should not feel rushed to buy uniform in the first few weeks. Your teacher will understand that you are new and this may take a little time to get in place.

Where to buy uniform:

• Basingstoke has a dedicated dance shop on Church Street called Tu Tu 2 Tango where all uniform can be bought.

• NHAD tracksuits can be ordered through the school. Please send us an email for more information.

• We also have a 2nd hand dance wear page on Facebook.

• Pointe shoes are purchased from Dancia International Crowthorn or Caversham. You will be emailed when your child is ready, so that you can make an appointment to have your shoes fitted.

Can I watch classes?

Parents of students grade 1 and below are welcome to come in to view your child’s trial classes however after that please wait in our foyer.

Very young students may need their parents for a little longer and we will endeavour to gradually build their confidence and our relationship with them so that they feel able to come into class independently at some point.

We have a watching week for parents to view classes every term. Parents are also invited to watch shows and other performances.

Exam coaching and exams are never open for parents to watch.

Do you provide singing lessons?

Many of our students take private singing lessons with the Emily Barham School of Singing online and Hayely Clover in person. Singing lessons cover anything from pop to musical theatre depending on your preference, and not only improve singing and technique but are also fun and focus on building confidence. Students also have the option of taking LCM Singing Exams. Lessons can be booked by contacting Emily directly on 07525 065353 or by email at: ebschoolofsinging@hotmail.com or Hayley Clover on

Who can do competitions?

In order to take part in competitions students must take ballet, modern and at least one other subject.

We will discuss the time and finances needed for competition work with these parents so that parents can decide if they would like their child to be part of the competition squads.

We give as many students the opportunity as possible and currently have many students across the junior, intermediate and senior teams.

How do exams work?

NHAD hold 2 RAD ballet and 2 ISTD modern and tap exam sessions per year so that anyone who wished to take part in exams may do so providing their attendance is good and they are ready.

When it is time for your child to take an exam you will receive and email with all the details.

Exams are a great goal to work towards and really aid improvement but are not compulsory and students can still progress through the levels without taking exams.

When do students get to perform on stage?

NHAD holds a whole school show every year and  musical theatre showcases at regular intervals. Please see our shows page for more details.

There are also other performance opportunities such as demonstrations, ISTD awards and events such as our performances at The Royal Albert Hall. Please see our performances page for more details.