Everything you need to know for your first day here at En Pointe
Everything you and your dancer need to know before your first class.
New places can feel a little daunting. We want your dancer's first visit to feel relaxed, welcoming and exciting from the moment you arrive.
Before you arrive → When you get here → Your class → What happens next
1. Before your first class
What should my dancer wear?
There's no need to buy dancewear for your first visit. Comfortable clothing that allows your dancer to move freely is perfect. Depending on the class, bare feet or grippy socks are absolutely fine.
What should we bring?
A water bottle and anything specifically mentioned in your booking confirmation.
When should we arrive?
Aim to arrive around 10 minutes before the class begins. This gives you time to find us, get settled and meet your teacher without feeling rushed.
Medical information and additional needs
If there's anything you'd like our teaching team to know, please include it when booking. You're also very welcome to speak privately with your teacher when you arrive.
2. Finding us
Free parking available
En Pointe
Unit 2, Rose Ave, Acomb, York YO26 6RU
Once you pass Flipout the trampoline park on your right, we are then on your next left through the gates.
3. When you arrive
Come into reception and make yourself comfortable. If it's your dancer's first visit, let us know when you arrive and we'll make sure you know exactly where to go.
Comfortable reception seating
Free WiFi
Hot drinks available
Free parking
4. What happens in the class?
Every dancer reacts differently to their first class. Some can't wait to join in, while others prefer to watch for a little while first.
Both are absolutely fine.
Our teachers will welcome your dancer and give them the time and space they need to feel comfortable. There's no pressure to perform or prove anything. Their first class is simply about experiencing En Pointe and enjoying being in the studio.
5. Can parents watch?
Parents, grandparents and carers are welcome to relax in our reception area while classes take place. If your younger dancer is particularly nervous, speak to your teacher when you arrive, and we'll help make their first visit as comfortable as possible. If you’d like to watch the first class and be in the studio, you can, though we do have a window into the studios as well if you feel that helps with the introduction to the class.
Loved it? Join us.
If your dancer comes out smiling and wants to come back, brilliant. You can book their place online for the remainder of the current term.
Joining midway through a term? No problem. You'll only pay for the classes remaining in that block.
6. Loved the class? Here's what happens next
7. En Pointe uniform
No uniform needed for your first class.
Once your dancer decides to join En Pointe, our class uniform becomes compulsory. Don't worry about figuring it out yourself. Our team can help with sizing and make sure you get exactly what your dancer needs for their class.
8. How En Pointe terms work
How bookings and payments work
Classes are booked in half term blocks.
You book your dancer's place once for the block and they'll be added to the register for every class included.
Joining partway through?
You only pay for the remaining classes.
Need to miss a class?
Not a problem. You can email the teacher, and we’ll hope to see you in next time. We can not refund classes already booked.
9. Quick parent FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my child need any dance experience?
Not at all. We welcome complete beginners as well as dancers who have attended classes elsewhere. Our teachers will help your dancer settle in and work at a level that feels right for them.
What should my child wear for their first class?
There is no need to buy uniform before your first visit. Comfortable clothing that your dancer can move freely in is absolutely fine. Once you decide to join En Pointe, our class uniform is compulsory and we'll help you with everything you need.
Does my child need dance shoes straight away?
No. Please don't worry about buying shoes before you've tried the class. We'll let you know exactly what your dancer needs once they decide to join.
What if my child is nervous?
That's completely normal. Some dancers run straight into the studio while others need a little more time. Our teachers are used to welcoming new dancers and there is no pressure to join in immediately. Sometimes watching for a while is the best way to feel comfortable.
Can parents stay during the class?
Parents and carers are welcome to relax in our reception area while classes take place. If your dancer is particularly nervous or has additional needs, please speak to their teacher when you arrive and we'll do our best to help them settle in.
What time should we arrive?
For your first visit, we recommend arriving around 10 minutes before the class begins. This gives you time to park, find us, get settled and meet your teacher without feeling rushed.
Is there somewhere to park?
Yes. Free parking is available at En Pointe, so you don't need to worry about finding somewhere nearby before your class.
Can we join if the half term has already started?
Yes, providing there is a space available in the class. If you join partway through a block, you'll only pay for the remaining classes rather than the full half term.
What happens if my child loves their first class?
Wonderful! You can book their place for the remainder of the half term through our online booking system. Once they're officially joining us, we'll also help you with uniform and anything else they need. Then they're all set for their next class.
What to expect…
At En Pointe we pride ourselves on how we welcome dancers from the moment they step into the studios. We try and make it as natural as possible for the dancers so they feel comfortable in the new surroundings. The first day must be relaxed and enjoyable. We like to make sure your child doesn't feel pressured or even feel like he or she has to participate in any way. If watching is best for him or her then that is fine with us. Your child can wear anything comfortable for the first day: for example shorts, leggings, a skirt and top or dress is fine, and maybe grippy socks or bare feet.
We encourage you as the parent or guardian to observe the first ballet class as it allows you to see the dance class play out. After the lesson, no commitment is necessary. We like to allow you at the end to register for that class if he or she thinks En Pointe is right for them. We will also hand you a uniform order form to purchase our compulsory En pointe dance uniform, should you wish to take up classes.
After your first dance class at En Pointe
Once you decide that you just loved your dance class at En Pointe, then we recommend you visit our friendly reception staff to get sized up in our unique and compulsory En Pointe branded dancewear. Before you know it, you'll be more than ready for your next creative dance class.
We've now made it easier for you to purchase uniforms with contactless payments.
Oh please, tag us on Facebook or Instagram #TeamEnPointe as we'd love to see you in your brand new dance uniform
Also, just a note...
The school is running 3 terms a year as well as hosting opportunities for dancers to come to our Summer workshops and productions at Joseph Rowntrees Theatre once a year. Payment for classes is made on a half termly fee basis.