Uniform for classes:
Some dancing teachers require a uniform standard of dress to be worn for classes and these guidelines are given when contact is made with the teacher. Shorts and tee-shirts are usually acceptable for beginners.
New entrants are not required to have highland dancing pumps. The teacher will indicate when pumps are required. Parents are often encouraged to sit in on the lesson and this can be discussed with the teacher.

Fees:
There is not a standard fee for qualified teachers. Most terms are for 10 weeks and depend on the teacher. Classes are held once or twice a week and most new pupils are part of a group.
Many of the teachers have a circular setting out the fees, times of classes, group and private lessons, venue and require from the parents such details as parents' contact number. There are now a number of teachers who are full-time dancing teachers and others who combine teaching with their work and family commitments.
Learning dancing can be great fun and is also an excellent way for parents and all members of the family to meet others. It does not matter if there is not family Scottish background - just take the opportunity to learn to dance and enjoy the sound of the bagpipes. Music is such an integral part of highland and national dancing.

Competitions:
Highland and national dancing competitions are held throughout New Zealand and competitors must be registered with the Piping and Dancing Association of New Zealand. Current registration fee is $20.00, Junior under 18 years, $40.00, Senior. The fee is paid annually for the period, 1st July to 30th June. The teacher will discuss with the parent the advantages of being involved in competition in their own centre or further afield. There is a standard of dress and parents need to be aware that there are costs of costume, plus entry fees into all competitions. Bylaws of competitions are available on receipt of registrations. The first-time Junior registrations are required to produce a birth certificate, details of name and address plus $20.00 to the centre secretary, who then forward the details and money to the Piping and Dancing Association of New Zealand, P O Box 6448, Te Aro, Wellington.

Dress:
Teachers are the experts on standard of dress and always discuss with parents the options available for purchasing kilts and Irish and Hornpipe costumes.

Examinations:
Teachers also encourage their pupils to enter into the the New Zealand Academy of Highland and National Dancing examinations. These are usually held in May and September each year. The dress standard for entry into the examinations is governed by the New Zealand Academy. Entries close 1 March and 30 June and there is a scale of costs from "Getting Started" right through to the Advanced Examination some 10-12 years later. Certificates are awarded for each examination. these examinations qualify dancers to teach and also adjudicate at dancing competitions.

Entertainment: Children love to give dance items for entertainment. Teachers encourage this community participation as well as the indoor and outdoor competitions held on a regular basis.