Our Mission

SJSHD strives to be an active participant in the Scottish community and share the Scottish cultural heritage through participation in private events, public events and performances.

• We believe that dancers grow in skill and character when they participate in competitions.

• We encourage our competition-ready dancers to participate in 4 local competitions per year.

• We are affiliated with the British Association of Teachers of Dance (BATD) for medals tests and teacher training.

• We strive to have an open, respectful, and focused learning environment.

Dancer Development

Medal Testing

In addition to competitions, dancers also have the opportunity to track their dancing progress through medal tests. Usually offered once a year, these tests measure a dancer's progress against a "standard" level rather than against other competitors. The higher the testing level, the more difficult the standard.

Teacher's Exam

In addition to medal tests, dancers may study and take Grade Level theory exams. These exams are usually offered once a year just like medal tests, and they measure a dancer’s progress with Highland Dance theory. These exams also progress in terms of difficulty, culminating with the Teacher’s Exam. Many dedicated dance students finish up their competitive dancing careers by taking the Teacher’s Exam and then continuing the tradition and art form of Highland Dancing by teaching new students.

Judges

In addition to medal tests, dancers may study and take Grade Level theory exams. These exams are usually offered once a year just like medal tests , and they measure a dancer’s progress with Highland Dance theory. These exams also progress in terms of difficulty, culminating with the Teacher’s Exam. Many dedicated dance students finish up their competitive dancing careers by taking the Teacher’s Exam and then continuing the tradition and art form of Highland Dancing by teaching new students.