First things first… don’t panic.

This does happen sometimes, especially with younger children, and we always meet each child where they actually are.

If they’re just a little nervous, we’ll often suggest they sit and watch for a few minutes first. Once they can see what’s happening, many children settle much more quickly than parents expect.

If they’re completely overwhelmed, we’d usually take a gentler approach, perhaps a tour first, then the option to come back another week.

And if it’s clearly just too much, we’ll refund your taster.

We want that first experience to feel supportive… not forced.

Absolutely – especially on that first week.

Parents are always welcome to stay, and we have a reception area where you can wait while your child settles in.

We don’t usually have parents stay in the actual room, simply because we find children often engage much better once they’re able to focus on the session rather than checking back constantly.

Usually, having you nearby (but not in the room) gives children that balance of reassurance and space.

Many settle far quicker than parents expect once they get going.

For lots of children, that’s actually exactly how they start.

It’s very common for children to arrive not knowing anyone at all, which is why we make sure they’re not just left to figure it out alone.

From the start, we’ll usually pair them with a buddy, so they’ve got someone to go around with straight away.

Often, having just one friendly face early on can make a huge difference.

We also do lots together as a group, so children are naturally meeting others throughout the session rather than being left on the sidelines.

And very often… children leave having already mentioned two or three new names by the end of that first day.

Our groups are split by age (6-8, 9-11 and 12-18) so once your child has arrived, met their buddy and is ready to get started, we make sure they know exactly where they need to be.

When it’s time to begin, we call each group by name and make sure new students are with their buddy and heading to the right class first.

So they’re not left standing there wondering where everyone’s going… we help those first few moments feel clear, organised and much less overwhelming.

For their first session they need to wear comfortable clothes they can move in. No Jeans or Skirts. Footwear wise, trainers or pumps are fine.

All they need with them is some water and a small snack.

They can go to the toilet at any point during the session.

Our buildings are secure, so it’s just us in there, and on their first week we always make sure children know where the toilets are.

If they ask to go and aren’t quite sure where they’re going yet, we’ll either point them in the right direction or send someone with them.

For our Minis, one of our team always accompanies them.