As promised by our motto, the Surbiton & District Caledonian Society offers “joy through dancing” every week from September to June. We are a thriving club with 4 or 5 sets dancing every week and our Thursday evenings have a special format designed to maximise the enjoyment of all our members, whatever their level. We start with a half an hour tuition session led by one of our own certified RSCDS teachers, open to all and at no extra cost, which is a great way to improve steps and formations without committing to a more formal class. Then we move on to the social dancing where our idea is to colour code the dances on the published programme for each week: black for everyone to join in, blue for dancing with an experienced partner and usually one red dance for experienced dancers only (although we’ll often dem and drag). All our dances are walked through first to refresh our memories or allow beginners to learn the pattern. During the evening we have a short tea break to mingle and chat. We are known for our friendly welcome to new members, and for the encouragement and support we give to beginners. Our yearly calendar includes some special events such as Burns Supper and a ceilidh, and we also run twice-yearly family dances on a Saturday afternoon as well as hosting dances on the Tartan Jigsaw circuit. In 2018 we celebrated our 70th Anniversary!