support information for students at bodens performing arts

From what age can you start Bodens Performing Arts?

Our classes are open to students aged 3 to 19 years: our preschool dance classes for 3 years,  our STARter Performing Arts for 4-6 years, and the remainder of our timetable is suitable for children and young people aged 7-19 years.

Can I try Bodens before committing to a full term?

We offer a free trial in all of our classes. We then recommend that parents pay on a weekly basis for the first few weeks to give them time to settle before moving onto monthly or termly payments.

How long is a term at Bodens?

Our term lengths vary depending on the London Borough of Barnet school term dates, ranging from 12-15 weeks, including a break for half term.

How much does it cost to attend classes at Bodens Performing Arts?

Prices range from our cheapest thirty minute classes at £6.00 per session, up to our three hour classes priced at £24.00. 

When do Bodens classes take place?

We offer classes seven days a week; evening classes running from 4pm-8.30pm weekdays, and weekend options taking place from 9am-6pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Classes take place during the Barnet School term.

What does my child need to wear at Bodens?

While we have branded Bodens merchandise available, students can also attend in any casual clothes that don’t restrict their movement. Syllabus dance classes have a uniform that is available for purchase at the studios from other dancewear stockists.

Does my child need to bring anything with them?

There is a short break midway through our longer performing arts classes, and so we recommend students bring a drink/snack; we have a vending machine on site at our Barnet studios. Students should use a journal/notebook to record their classes and bring a folder to keep hold of scripts, lyrics and worksheets.

What should we do if we are unable to attend one of our Bodens classes?

It is useful if you can contact the office on 020 8447 0909 or at info@bodens.co.uk so that we can let the class tutors know. Students are more than welcome to make up for any session missed, by attending an alternative session that week, though this must be arranged in advance.

What payment methods are available at Bodens Performing Arts?

Payments can be made by cash, cheque, card, childcare voucher or BACS using the following details: Bodens Performing Arts, Sort: 09-01-28, Acc: 47558952

Do you accept childcare vouchers?

Yes, please contact the office on 020 8447 0909, or info@bodens.co.uk to discuss this payment method, to ensure you have the correct provider references.

Are there any discounts available at Bodens Performing Arts?

Yes, there are three schemes available. 

Siblings: 25% off the second child’s fees, 50% off the third child and so on.

Multiple Classes: Students attending multiple classes at Bodens, get the third one half price

Recommending a Friend: Current students get 25% of what their recommended friend pays in their first term, off the following term’s fees.

How do you safely recruit teachers?

As part of our Safer Recruitment Programme, and in line with our Safeguarding and Risk Assessment Policies, new staff members complete a full induction process and probation period.

The Senior Management Team review all CVs, conduct a face-to-face interview and undertake reference checks in the first instance. On completion of this, potential candidates participate in training to support the guidelines outlined by the DofE, ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education,’ which includes Safeguarding and Prevent training. DBS Checks, and a review of Bodens Performing Arts’ policies also take place at this stage. As part of the probation period, tutors run workshops, which are observed by a member of staff and once appointed, our tutors are monitored regularly within our CPD Programme, which includes training in Lesson Planning, Class Delivery and Student Feedback to ensure our students are able to achieve their potential throughout their time at Bodens Performing Arts. Tutor Observations are undertaken by a member of the Senior Management Team on a regular basis to ensure high standards are maintained, and learner progression is effective.

Do you do exams/dance syllabus?

We provide students with the opportunity to participate in a variety of classes; some aimed at taking exams, and others focused on performances and our tailored programme to support student progression. With regards to our syllabus classes, we are accredited by the Royal Academy of Dance (Ballet), Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (Tap & Modern) and Trinity College (Acting & Musical Theatre).

Are you Ofsted Registered?

Yes, we are, and our registration number is EY461575.

Do you offer Holiday Courses?

We provide week-long holiday courses throughout the summer, ranging from Film Production Acting Courses, through to Musical Theatre. More information can be found using the Summer Courses link at the top of our website.

What if my child is considering leaving classes at Bodens?

Please contact a member of our team on 020 8447 0909, who will be happy to discuss the options available.

Can they bring a friend?

Absolutely! We offer free trial classes, which can be booked in advance by contacting the office on 020 8447 0909. There is a discount available, enabling current students to get 25% of what their recommended friend pays in their first term, off the following term’s fees.

Are you associated with an Agency?

Yes, for over forty years, Bodens Agency has been representing children and young people for professional work in Theatre, Film and Television. We represent talented and capable young actors with experience and an ability to deliver real and truthful performances, on stage or screen. Our staff recommend students to our lead agents regularly throughout the year.

Why do you separate the children into classes of smaller age groups than other performing arts providers?

Within our classes, the groups are determined by a child’s school year to enable our staff to prepare lessons targeting specific learning objectives, most appropriate for the age group. We see the best progression when the age bracket remains smaller, as the teaching approaches, repertoire and styles used are specifically designed to enhance the learning experience of the individuals in that class.

Do you do shows?

Our students work towards productions on a regular basis; ranging from contemporary and classical plays through to musicals throughout the year, we also provide termly watch-week sessions for our dance classes, certificate presentations for our examination students and an annual awards ceremony. Many of the shows take place in our own Scaffold Theatre, although we also provide students with the opportunity to perform in other venues, most recently Jacksons Lane (Highgate) and Cockpit (Marylebone).

What development can I hope to see in my child?

The majority of children and young people in our classes show varied improvement in the development of their confidence and communication, knowledge and application of techniques, and overall improvement in their ability as a performer. The level of growth in these areas depends on the individual student and their initial capabilities and confidence.  Just as important as these areas are the transferable skills the classes also target: creativity, focus, grit and determination, empathy and self belief. Through the teaching approach at our school, the students learn to confidently perform as themselves.