Summer School 2024 - exclusive offer

We hope to be able to offer all of the classes listed below, but reserve the right to cancel any should demand be insufficient. In such cases, dancers will be contacted in order to move to the most appropriate other class. Please select one option for each week to indicate which class you wish to join. The Schools Director, in consultation with your class teacher, reserves the right to move, up or down, anyone who, in their opinion would benefit from attending a different class. Only use the '2nd week' boxes if you are attending for more than one week.

Classes for all levels of Scottish Country Dancing are held during the mornings of Monday to Saturday at various venues throughout St. Andrews. All are within approximately 25- 30 minutes walking distance of University Hall.

This is a course of practical dancing and everyone is expected to actively participate in both morning classes for all six days. During the afternoons additional voluntary classes may be offered. The examination courses and music courses will involve morning and afternoon classes. There are no classes on Sundays. 

Step classes will be run in the afternoons.

This course is for those early in their dancing journey as well as those returning to dancing, who are interested in working on the fundamentals of dancing and wanting to improve all aspects of their technique. The class will focus on improving foot work, and explore social aspects of dancing such as teamwork, the use of hands, phrasing, good eye contact etc. It will build confidence and understanding of common formations. To benefit from this class, it is important that you have a basic understanding of the formations in List 1.

This course is for dancers, who are more experienced with a good standard of footwork, technique with good phrasing and teamwork, who wish to improve and develop their dancing and knowledge. Dancers must be able to sustain a good level of energy and a commitment to improving their performance. To take part in this class, it is essential that dancers can dance all the formations in List 1 without a walk through and have a good dancing knowledge of the formations in List 2.

This course is for dancers who can perform at the highest level of dance, with excellent footwork, handing, and technique and who wish to be challenged further. This is a high impact, physically demanding, class and requires a very good level of physical fitness. To take part in this class, dancers are expected to dance without a walk through, all the formations in List 1 and List 2, as well as having a good dancing knowledge of the formations in List 3.

This course is for dancers, who no longer wish the physical intensity of high impact but still wish a challenge in the dancing/ dances. They will have a very good knowledge of formations and technique, but may have sustained an injury or are unable to perform high impact footwork. Dancers should still retain an excellent understanding and delivery of the technical elements of dance. The course will incorporate low-impact techniques, but those attending should be actively involved in all aspects of dance. It is expected that those taking part will have a comprehensive knowledge of most of the formations in lists 1, 2 and 3.

This course is for dancers, who have several years’ experience along with a reasonable level of fitness. These dancers would prefer to dance at a lower energy level. The class will continue to provide help and support with the more complex formations. Technique will still be covered in terms of phrasing, covering, handing, eye contact and posture to improve the overall execution of the dance but at a physically less demanding level. Dancers should be able to dance the formations in Lists 1 and 2, but may need a walk- through of some formations in List 3.

Unit 5 of the RSCDS Teaching Certificate, taught over weeks 1 and 2. Candidates are required to attend both weeks.

Closing date 28th March 2024. Applications after that will only be accepted up until end of April, if places are available. Remember to apply to attend Summer School as well as sending in your Unit Exam application form.

Tutor for Group A: Janet Johnston

Tutor for Group B: Andrew Nolan

Taking place only in afternoons. Please register your interest on your application form.

Taking place only in afternoons. Please register your interest on your application form.

Lead down middle and up             Figure of eight                              Reel of three on sidelines

Set and cast off                                Hands round and back               Reel of three across

Petronella turn                                Hands across and back               Promenade for 2 or 3 couples

Allemande for 2  or 3 couples       Right and lefts for 2 couples       Poussette  in reel or jig time       

Grand chain for 3 couples             Ladies chain                                  Turn corners and partner

All formations in List 1 plus:

Figure of 8 for 2 couples                          Set to and turn corners                      

Mens’ chain                                                Set to corners and partner (hello goodbye)

Double triangles                                       Reel of three after set to and turn corners                 

Strathspey poussette                              Reel of three after set to corner and partner             

Set and rotate for 2 or 3 couples          Reel of four on the diagonal   

Knot for 2 or 3 couples                            Reel of four across starting from sidelines  

All formations in List 1 and List 2 plus:

Bourrel for 2 or 3 couples                         Reel of three in tandem changing lead

Corners pass and turn                              Reel of four across including progressing one place

Espagnole                                                     The spoke

Petronella turn in tandem                        The targe

Rights and lefts for 3 couples                  The tourbillon

Set and rotate for 3 couples                    The tournee                                                               

The Chain progression for 2 or 3 couples 

The Summer School 2024 Booklet will be posted here closer to the event.

The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society is under no obligation whatsoever in respect of any personal injury which you may sustain and you agree to conform to any rules or regulations which may be made from time to time and which govern your visit to Summer School.

Bookings will be accepted on the basis that this is a practical dancing course and your physical fitness should allow you to participate fully in both morning classes for all six days.

You may attend for one week or for a maximum of any two weeks. We hope that each week will offer something special but, if you choose to attend for two weeks there may be some duplication in content and staffing.

Attendees who decide to reside in accommodation other than University Hall or Agnes Blackadder Hall will be considered to be Non-Resident. 

Non-Residents have the opportunity to attend all classes and social events, having booked the accommodation of their choice. The Tourist Information Centre (01334 472021) can provide information on alternative accommodation in the town.

It is recommended that under 18 year olds attend Summer School during week 3. This will enable them to interact with other young dancers, as well as the general dance community at Summer School.

They must be accompanied by a responsible adult who must be either:

• Parent or legal guardian
• Grandparent
• Aunt or uncle ie sister or brother of a parent

There are discounts available as indicated for members of the RSCDS. 

If you have any questions please contact the Events Manager, Moira Thomson: moira.thomson@rscds.org 

Refunds

Every effort will be made to provide refunds up to 31st March 2024. Refunds will not be made for cancellations after this date. All refunds will be subject to an administrative charge of £80 per person. Attendees are strongly advised to have suitable insurance to cover any loss of fees in the event of illness, injury or other unavoidable circumstance.

Cancellation Policy

If, due to circumstances outside our control, we are required to cancel the Summer School event then we will inform all attendees and a full refund will be provided. The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society shall assume no liability for any losses resulting from individual pre-booked travel. Please check your personal travel insurance policy.

Insurance

Attendees are strongly advised to have suitable insurance to cover any loss of fees in the event of illness, injury or other unavoidable circumstance.

Covid Precautions

Please do NOT attend if you have received a positive Covid test result or have been instructed by the NHS to self-isolate in the week prior to Summer School.

All Covid rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland, but the virus has not gone away so please use 'Covid sense' to help protect yourself and others

Whilst vaccination is strongly encouraged, it is not mandatory for this event. Hand sanitisers will be made available at all dancing venues.

Photography & filming

Please note that filming/photography will take place during Summer School for promotional and archival purposes. The photographs and recordings may appear on our website, social media platforms or other publications.  If you would prefer not to be photographed or filmed then please inform the Marketing Officer, Lyndsay Walker (lyndsay.walker@rscds.org) or photographer on the day.

Summer School registration opens at 4pm every Sunday during the event period. Room keys can be picked up from the desk in the foyer of University Hall. Attendees arriving early are welcome to leave their bags.

Attendees staying in Agnes Blackadder Hall can check in at this building from 3pm onwards, then make their way to University Hall to register at the RSCDS office.

When departing please ensure that your room is cleared by 10am. Luggage may be left in the Music Room in the Lumsden wing until departure time. Please return your key to the University Manager’s office.

Attendees can opt to stay in either University Hall or Agnes Blackadder, both of which are located at St. Andrews University.

Summer School is based in University Hall, Kennedy Gardens. This is an historic building in its own attractive grounds near the University playing fields. The rooms are study bedrooms, either single or twin, many have wash-hand basins, but all other bathroom facilities are shared. 

Accommodation can also be booked in Agnes Blackadder Hall (formerly New Hall) for adults only. This venue is approximately 15 minutes from University Hall. All bedrooms have an en-suite shower, toilet and wash-hand basin. Most of the bedrooms have one double bed and can be occupied by one or two dancers. These rooms are compact when used for double occupancy and couples may prefer to have a room each. All rooms have a television. Agnes Blackadder Hall has a bar, spacious foyer and dining room, where breakfast is served.

The RSCDS Office, pop up shops and most social functions are based in University Hall.

Included in the booking fee is breakfast, lunch and dinner (dinner on the day you arrive and breakfast on the day you depart is also included). All meals are buffet style and dietary restrictions can be observed, so please make sure to let us know in the booking form.

Agnes Blackadder residents: please note that other than breakfast all meals will be eaten at University Hall in the Dining Hall. 

All university bedrooms are serviced daily and are provided with towels, and of course, bedlinen. Coffee/tea-making facilities are available in nearby well equipped kitchens.

Attendees who decide to reside in accommodation other than University Hall or Agnes Blackadder Hall will be considered Non-Resident.

Other University accommodation can be booked directly through St Andrews University and there are a number of hotels, B&B and caravans available in or near the town.

WiFi access

There is free WIFI access throughout University Hall and Agnes Blackadder Hall.

Laundry

Facilities available include washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. Washing machines and dryers operate by a downloadable app, Washstation. Details are displayed in the laundry rooms.

Please note - Scholarship applications for Summer School 2024 are now closed.

Unsuccessful applicants will still be able to get the early bird price.

Additionally, you can help spread the cost if you choose to pay via PayPal at time of booking. You can select 'Pay Later' and you won’t pay any interest on your balance for 4 months.

New Family Scholarship

Available for families with under 18-years-old dancers.

Family Scholarship - Information

Applications for Summer School 2024 Family Scholarship are now closed.

There is social dancing for all dancers attending Summer School on most evenings. This is held in University Hall and/or elsewhere. There is also a ceilidh each Friday evening which you may wish to join.

Every Thursday there are public dances in the Younger Hall. Dancers attending Summer School, (except morning only dancers) will not be required to buy a ticket as it is included in the Summer School fees. Tickets for non Summer School attendees will be released late May.

On these evenings there will be a ‘Nice and Easy’ dance in the Common Room at University Hall.

The designated responsible adult for Summer school MUST accompany young dancers aged 8 – 17 years to all social dances. Only dancers aged 8 years and above may be on the dance floor during social dancing.

Branches and Groups nearby also offer opportunities for social dancing during Summer School and details will be available from the RSCDS Office in University Hall. 

Dance Programme

The smooth running of Summer School is successfully achieved through the collaborative efforts of RSCDS Office staff members, the Summer School teachers and musicians, as well as through the volunteer support generously given by attendees. If you wish to help, for example, by assisting at registration or in the pop up shop or by selling raffle tickets, then please select the appropriate box on the online booking form.

It would be very much appreciated if ALL dancers attending Summer School could give at least one hour to help make up the classes required for the practical teaching part of the examinations held at the end of Week 2 and Week 4. Some classes will be expected to do this as part of their morning tuition.

Location & venues

The venues for Summer School classes are located in both University Hall and around the town of St. Andrews. After breakfast at University Hall or Agnes Blackadder there is more than enough time to get to your class as the venues are located centrally in town - a maximum walk of approximately 25 – 30 minutes.

University Hall: Kennedy Gardens, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9DL

Agnes Blackadder Hall: North Haugh, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9XW

Travel Information

If you plan to travel by road please consult the AA, RAC or equivalent on the best route and road conditions. 

If you plan to travel by air, Edinburgh Airport is nearest although onward travel by train and/or bus is available from Glasgow and Prestwick.

The nearest train station is Leuchars, where buses or taxis are available for onward travel.

Stagecoach and Strathtay Buses come to St. Andrews bus station.

The following website may help with your travel plans:

www.visitstandrews.com

It is very easy to become a member of the RSCDS, just follow these four simple steps:

1. Use the Branch & Group Finder to find a Branch closest to your location
2. Visit their website for membership information and email the Branch secretary to tell them you would like to join
3. Fill out a membership form (or download from their website) and send it in with the subscription fee
4. Enjoy the benefits of RSCDS membership!

If you don't have a branch near you, why not join HQ, the International Branch or the Youth Branch! 

We hope to be able to offer all of the classes listed below, but reserve the right to cancel any should demand be insufficient. In such cases, dancers will be contacted in order to move to the most appropriate other class. Please select one option for each week to indicate which class you wish to join. The Schools Director, in consultation with your class teacher, reserves the right to move, up or down, anyone who, in their opinion would benefit from attending a different class. Only use the '2nd week' boxes if you are attending for more than one week.

Classes for all levels of Scottish Country Dancing are held during the mornings of Monday to Saturday at various venues throughout St. Andrews. All are within approximately 25- 30 minutes walking distance of University Hall.

This is a course of practical dancing and everyone is expected to actively participate in both morning classes for all six days. During the afternoons additional voluntary classes may be offered. The examination courses and music courses will involve morning and afternoon classes. There are no classes on Sundays. 

Step classes will be run in the afternoons.

If you have not discovered the fun of Scottish county dancing or have very little experience, then come and experience this class. You will be taught the basic steps, formations and simple dances. Some dances from the evening programmes will be taught.

This course is for those early in their dancing journey as well as those returning to dancing, who are interested in working on the fundamentals of dancing and wanting to improve all aspects of their technique. The class will focus on improving foot work, and explore social aspects of dancing such as teamwork, the use of hands, phrasing, good eye contact etc. It will build confidence and understanding of common formations. To benefit from this class, it is important that you have a basic understanding of the formations in List 1.

This course is for dancers, who are more experienced with a good standard of footwork, technique with good phrasing and teamwork, who wish to improve and develop their dancing and knowledge. Dancers must be able to sustain a good level of energy and a commitment to improving their performance. To take part in this class, it is essential that dancers can dance all the formations in List 1 without a walk through and have a good dancing knowledge of the formations in List 2.

This course is for dancers who can perform at the highest level of dance, with excellent footwork, handing, and technique and who wish to be challenged further. This is a high impact, physically demanding, class and requires a very good level of physical fitness. To take part in this class, dancers are expected to dance without a walk through, all the formations in List 1 and List 2, as well as having a good dancing knowledge of the formations in List 3.

This course is for dancers, who no longer wish the physical intensity of high impact but still wish a challenge in the dancing/ dances. They will have a very good knowledge of formations and technique, but may have sustained an injury or are unable to perform high impact footwork. Dancers should still retain an excellent understanding and delivery of the technical elements of dance. The course will incorporate low-impact techniques, but those attending should be actively involved in all aspects of dance. It is expected that those taking part will have a comprehensive knowledge of most of the formations in lists 1, 2 and 3.

This course is for dancers, who have several years’ experience along with a reasonable level of fitness. These dancers would prefer to dance at a lower energy level. The class will continue to provide help and support with the more complex formations. Technique will still be covered in terms of phrasing, covering, handing, eye contact and posture to improve the overall execution of the dance but at a physically less demanding level. Dancers should be able to dance the formations in Lists 1 and 2, but may need a walk- through of some formations in List 3.

Unit 2 and Unit 3 of the RSCDS Teaching Certificate, taught over weeks 3 and 4. Candidates are required to attend both weeks.

Closing date 28th March 2024. Applications after that will only be accepted up until end of April, if places are available. Remember to apply to attend Summer School as well as sending in your Unit Exam application form.

Tutor: Andrew McConnell

Shadow Tutor: Eric Finley

Learn how to play for a Scottish country dance class. Led by a senior summer school musician, this course will give you the opportunity to shadow and learn from the musicians on staff during the morning classes followed by an afternoon session to review what you’ve seen and also discuss, review and learn how to provide the best music for the dance classes in your area. With strictly limited places, this course can be shaped to fit the attendees particularly needs or interests.

Tutor: Luke Brady

Week 1 and Week 3, Monday - Wednesday afternoons

There have been many teachers asking when the next course will be available to train new tutors. The answer…Summer of 2024.

The new course has been designed to train qualified teachers who would like to teach candidate courses for units 2, 3 and 5. As an RSCDS teacher or assessor you might want to progress your development beyond teaching local classes. This course will provide you with the training to be able to confidently lead candidate courses either locally or at Summer Schools.

Part 1 of this course will be delivered via zoom prior to attendance at Summer School, with Part 2 being delivered over 3 afternoons at Summer School. The combination of online video training as well as in-person sessions will allow participants to deliver practical tutoring. This Summer the in-person sessions will be held in St Andrews in the afternoons of week 1 (14th to 21st July) and week 3 (28th July to 4th August). This will allow Summer School attendees to still attend their morning classes as usual either as a member of staff or as a class member. If you are not coming to Summer School in St Andrews next year you can still attend the course in the afternoons. The online sessions will be held in advance of attending St Andrews. Teachers on Summer School staff 2024, can be timetabled to allow attendance at this course.

The course will also be offered next year at TAC Summer School in Ontario, Canada, with afternoon in-person sessions (29 July to 4 August). You will need to register your interest on your TAC application form. Following the taster sessions which we held at St Andrews Summer School in 2023 we know that there is also interest from teachers in other parts of the world and we will be arranging further courses according to demand so please register your interest on the form below.

To attend this course at St Andrews you will need to register your interest in advance of the school as we will need sufficient prospective tutors to be able to hold the course.

Please register your interest in attending a course by completing this form.

REGISTER NOW

8* – 11-year-olds

It is recommended that under 18-year-olds attend Summer School during week 3. This will enable them to interact with other young dancers, as well as the general dance community at Summer School.

Junior Summer Camp offers a great opportunity to learn Scottish country dancing, together with some ceilidh dances and highland steps. The daily Junior Summer Camp activities will include crafts, outdoor games, challenges over the week such as creating a dance, compiling a word board, word searches and maybe even a quiz. There may also be the opportunity to attend a beach party (weather dependent) and other social events. On the last day there might even be an extra special surprise! The daily timetable for classes / activities is outlined below;

Daily Timetable

*8th birthday to be attained before or during the week at Summer School.

To find out more information about our new Junior Membership check our Young Dancers page.

Those attending JSC can become non-subscribing members when coming to Summer School.

12* – 17-year-olds

It is recommended that under 18-year-olds attend Summer School during week 3. This will enable them to interact with other young dancers, as well as the general dance community at Summer School. However, 12-17-year-olds may attend any week of Summer School.

Young dancers will attend a class of their ability along with the other Summer School dancers. There will be opportunities for this age group to get together with peers in some afternoons.

*12th birthday to be attained before or during the week at Summer School.

To find out more information about Young Dancers' membership check our Young Dancers page.

Taking place only in afternoons. Please register your interest on your application form.

Taking place only in afternoons. Please register your interest on your application form.

Lead down middle and up             Figure of eight                              Reel of three on sidelines

Set and cast off                                Hands round and back               Reel of three across

Petronella turn                                Hands across and back               Promenade for 2 or 3 couples

Allemande for 2  or 3 couples       Right and lefts for 2 couples       Poussette  in reel or jig time       

Grand chain for 3 couples             Ladies chain                                  Turn corners and partner

All formations in List 1 plus:

Figure of 8 for 2 couples                          Set to and turn corners                      

Mens’ chain                                                Set to corners and partner (hello goodbye)

Double triangles                                       Reel of three after set to and turn corners                 

Strathspey poussette                              Reel of three after set to corner and partner             

Set and rotate for 2 or 3 couples          Reel of four on the diagonal   

Knot for 2 or 3 couples                            Reel of four across starting from sidelines  

All formations in List 1 and List 2 plus:

Bourrel for 2 or 3 couples                         Reel of three in tandem changing lead

Corners pass and turn                              Reel of four across including progressing one place

Espagnole                                                     The spoke

Petronella turn in tandem                        The targe

Rights and lefts for 3 couples                  The tourbillon

Set and rotate for 3 couples                    The tournee                                                               

The Chain progression for 2 or 3 couples 

The Summer School 2024 Booklet will be posted here closer to the event.

The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society is under no obligation whatsoever in respect of any personal injury which you may sustain and you agree to conform to any rules or regulations which may be made from time to time and which govern your visit to Summer School.

Bookings will be accepted on the basis that this is a practical dancing course and your physical fitness should allow you to participate fully in both morning classes for all six days.

You may attend for one week or for a maximum of any two weeks. We hope that each week will offer something special but, if you choose to attend for two weeks there may be some duplication in content and staffing.

Attendees who decide to reside in accommodation other than University Hall or Agnes Blackadder Hall will be considered to be Non-Resident. 

Non-Residents have the opportunity to attend all classes and social events, having booked the accommodation of their choice. The Tourist Information Centre (01334 472021) can provide information on alternative accommodation in the town.

It is recommended that under 18 year olds attend Summer School during week 3. This will enable them to interact with other young dancers, as well as the general dance community at Summer School.

They must be accompanied by a responsible adult who must be either:

• Parent or legal guardian
• Grandparent
• Aunt or uncle ie sister or brother of a parent

There are discounts available as indicated for members of the RSCDS. 

If you have any questions please contact the Events Manager, Moira Thomson: moira.thomson@rscds.org 

Refunds

Every effort will be made to provide refunds up to 31st March 2024. Refunds will not be made for cancellations after this date. All refunds will be subject to an administrative charge of £80 per person. Attendees are strongly advised to have suitable insurance to cover any loss of fees in the event of illness, injury or other unavoidable circumstance.

Cancellation Policy

If, due to circumstances outside our control, we are required to cancel the Summer School event then we will inform all attendees and a full refund will be provided. The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society shall assume no liability for any losses resulting from individual pre-booked travel. Please check your personal travel insurance policy.

Insurance

Attendees are strongly advised to have suitable insurance to cover any loss of fees in the event of illness, injury or other unavoidable circumstance.

Covid Precautions

Please do NOT attend if you have received a positive Covid test result or have been instructed by the NHS to self-isolate in the week prior to Summer School.

All Covid rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland, but the virus has not gone away so please use 'Covid sense' to help protect yourself and others

Whilst vaccination is strongly encouraged, it is not mandatory for this event. Hand sanitisers will be made available at all dancing venues.

Photography & filming

Please note that filming/photography will take place during Summer School for promotional and archival purposes. The photographs and recordings may appear on our website, social media platforms or other publications.  If you would prefer not to be photographed or filmed then please inform the Marketing Officer, Lyndsay Walker (lyndsay.walker@rscds.org) or photographer on the day.

Summer School registration opens at 4pm every Sunday during the event period. Room keys can be picked up from the desk in the foyer of University Hall. Attendees arriving early are welcome to leave their bags.

Attendees staying in Agnes Blackadder Hall can check in at this building from 3pm onwards, then make their way to University Hall to register at the RSCDS office.

When departing please ensure that your room is cleared by 10am. Luggage may be left in the Music Room in the Lumsden wing until departure time. Please return your key to the University Manager’s office.

Attendees can opt to stay in either University Hall or Agnes Blackadder, both of which are located at St. Andrews University.

Summer School is based in University Hall, Kennedy Gardens. This is an historic building in its own attractive grounds near the University playing fields. The rooms are study bedrooms, either single or twin, many have wash-hand basins, but all other bathroom facilities are shared. 

Accommodation can also be booked in Agnes Blackadder Hall (formerly New Hall) for adults only. This venue is approximately 15 minutes from University Hall. All bedrooms have an en-suite shower, toilet and wash-hand basin. Most of the bedrooms have one double bed and can be occupied by one or two dancers. These rooms are compact when used for double occupancy and couples may prefer to have a room each. All rooms have a television. Agnes Blackadder Hall has a bar, spacious foyer and dining room, where breakfast is served.

The RSCDS Office, pop up shops and most social functions are based in University Hall.

Included in the booking fee is breakfast, lunch and dinner (dinner on the day you arrive and breakfast on the day you depart is also included). All meals are buffet style and dietary restrictions can be observed, so please make sure to let us know in the booking form.

Agnes Blackadder residents: please note that other than breakfast all meals will be eaten at University Hall in the Dining Hall. 

All university bedrooms are serviced daily and are provided with towels, and of course, bedlinen. Coffee/tea-making facilities are available in nearby well equipped kitchens.

Attendees who decide to reside in accommodation other than University Hall or Agnes Blackadder Hall will be considered Non-Resident.

Other University accommodation can be booked directly through St Andrews University and there are a number of hotels, B&B and caravans available in or near the town.

WiFi access

There is free WIFI access throughout University Hall and Agnes Blackadder Hall.

Laundry

Facilities available include washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. Washing machines and dryers operate by a downloadable app, Washstation. Details are displayed in the laundry rooms.

Please note - Scholarship applications for Summer School 2024 are now closed.

Unsuccessful applicants will still be able to get the early bird price.

Additionally, you can help spread the cost if you choose to pay via Paypal at time of booking. You can select 'Pay Later' and you won’t pay any interest on your balance for 4 months.

New Family Scholarship

Available for families with under 18-years-old dancers.

Family Scholarship - Information

Applications for Summer School 2024 Family Scholarship are now closed.

There is social dancing for all dancers attending Summer School on most evenings. This is held in University Hall and/or elsewhere. There is also a ceilidh each Friday evening which you may wish to join.

Every Thursday there are public dances in the Younger Hall. Dancers attending Summer School, (except morning only dancers) will not be required to buy a ticket as it is included in the Summer School fees. Tickets for non Summer School attendees will be released late May.

On these evenings there will be a ‘Nice and Easy’ dance in the Common Room at University Hall.

The designated responsible adult for Summer school MUST accompany young dancers aged 8 – 17 years to all social dances. Only dancers aged 8 years and above may be on the dance floor during social dancing.

Branches and Groups nearby also offer opportunities for social dancing during Summer School and details will be available from the RSCDS Office in University Hall. 

Dance Programme

The smooth running of Summer School is successfully achieved through the collaborative efforts of RSCDS Office staff members, the Summer School teachers and musicians, as well as through the volunteer support generously given by attendees. If you wish to help, for example, by assisting at registration or in the pop up shop or by selling raffle tickets, then please select the appropriate box on the online booking form.

It would be very much appreciated if ALL dancers attending Summer School could give at least one hour to help make up the classes required for the practical teaching part of the examinations held at the end of Week 2 and Week 4. Some classes will be expected to do this as part of their morning tuition.

Location & venues

The venues for Summer School classes are located in both University Hall and around the town of St. Andrews. After breakfast at University Hall or Agnes Blackadder there is more than enough time to get to your class as the venues are located centrally in town - a maximum walk of approximately 25 – 30 minutes.

University Hall: Kennedy Gardens, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9DL

Agnes Blackadder Hall: North Haugh, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9XW

Travel Information

If you plan to travel by road please consult the AA, RAC or equivalent on the best route and road conditions. 

If you plan to travel by air, Edinburgh Airport is nearest although onward travel by train and/or bus is available from Glasgow and Prestwick.

The nearest train station is Leuchars, where buses or taxis are available for onward travel.

Stagecoach and Strathtay Buses come to St. Andrews bus station.

The following website may help with your travel plans:

www.visitstandrews.com

It is very easy to become a member of the RSCDS, just follow these four simple steps:

1. Use the Branch & Group Finder to find a Branch closest to your location
2. Visit their website for membership information and email the Branch secretary to tell them you would like to join
3. Fill out a membership form (or download from their website) and send it in with the subscription fee
4. Enjoy the benefits of RSCDS membership!

If you don't have a branch near you, why not join HQ, the International Branch or the Youth Branch! 

We hope to be able to offer all of the classes listed below, but reserve the right to cancel any should demand be insufficient. In such cases, dancers will be contacted in order to move to the most appropriate other class. Please select one option for each week to indicate which class you wish to join. The Schools Director, in consultation with your class teacher, reserves the right to move, up or down, anyone who, in their opinion would benefit from attending a different class. Only use the '2nd week' boxes if you are attending for more than one week.

Classes for all levels of Scottish Country Dancing are held during the mornings of Monday to Saturday at various venues throughout St. Andrews. All are within approximately 25- 30 minutes walking distance of University Hall.

This is a course of practical dancing and everyone is expected to actively participate in both morning classes for all six days. During the afternoons additional voluntary classes may be offered. The examination courses and music courses will involve morning and afternoon classes. There are no classes on Sundays. 

Step classes will be run in the afternoons.

This course is for those early in their dancing journey as well as those returning to dancing, who are interested in working on the fundamentals of dancing and wanting to improve all aspects of their technique. The class will focus on improving foot work, and explore social aspects of dancing such as teamwork, the use of hands, phrasing, good eye contact etc. It will build confidence and understanding of common formations. To benefit from this class, it is important that you have a basic understanding of the formations in List 1.

This course is for dancers, who are more experienced with a good standard of footwork, technique with good phrasing and teamwork, who wish to improve and develop their dancing and knowledge. Dancers must be able to sustain a good level of energy and a commitment to improving their performance. To take part in this class, it is essential that dancers can dance all the formations in List 1 without a walk through and have a good dancing knowledge of the formations in List 2.

This course is for dancers who can perform at the highest level of dance, with excellent footwork, handing, and technique and who wish to be challenged further. This is a high impact, physically demanding, class and requires a very good level of physical fitness. To take part in this class, dancers are expected to dance without a walk through, all the formations in List 1 and List 2, as well as having a good dancing knowledge of the formations in List 3.

This course is for dancers, who no longer wish the physical intensity of high impact but still wish a challenge in the dancing/ dances. They will have a very good knowledge of formations and technique, but may have sustained an injury or are unable to perform high impact footwork. Dancers should still retain an excellent understanding and delivery of the technical elements of dance. The course will incorporate low-impact techniques, but those attending should be actively involved in all aspects of dance. It is expected that those taking part will have a comprehensive knowledge of most of the formations in lists 1, 2 and 3.

This course is for dancers, who have several years’ experience along with a reasonable level of fitness. These dancers would prefer to dance at a lower energy level. The class will continue to provide help and support with the more complex formations. Technique will still be covered in terms of phrasing, covering, handing, eye contact and posture to improve the overall execution of the dance but at a physically less demanding level. Dancers should be able to dance the formations in Lists 1 and 2, but may need a walk- through of some formations in List 3.

Unit 2 and Unit 3 of the RSCDS Teaching Certificate, taught over weeks 3 and 4. Candidates are required to attend both weeks.

Closing date 28th March 2024. Applications after that will only be accepted up until end of April, if places are available. Remember to apply to attend Summer School as well as sending in your Unit Exam application form.

Tutor: Andrew McConnell

Shadow Tutor: Eric Finley

Taking place only in afternoons. Please register your interest on your application form.

Taking place only in afternoons. Please register your interest on your application form.

Lead down middle and up             Figure of eight                              Reel of three on sidelines

Set and cast off                                Hands round and back               Reel of three across

Petronella turn                                Hands across and back               Promenade for 2 or 3 couples

Allemande for 2  or 3 couples       Right and lefts for 2 couples       Poussette  in reel or jig time       

Grand chain for 3 couples             Ladies chain                                  Turn corners and partner

All formations in List 1 plus:

Figure of 8 for 2 couples                          Set to and turn corners                      

Mens’ chain                                                Set to corners and partner (hello goodbye)

Double triangles                                       Reel of three after set to and turn corners                 

Strathspey poussette                              Reel of three after set to corner and partner             

Set and rotate for 2 or 3 couples          Reel of four on the diagonal   

Knot for 2 or 3 couples                            Reel of four across starting from sidelines  

All formations in List 1 and List 2 plus:

Bourrel for 2 or 3 couples                         Reel of three in tandem changing lead

Corners pass and turn                              Reel of four across including progressing one place

Espagnole                                                     The spoke

Petronella turn in tandem                        The targe

Rights and lefts for 3 couples                  The tourbillon

Set and rotate for 3 couples                    The tournee                                                               

The Chain progression for 2 or 3 couples 

The Summer School 2024 Booklet will be posted here closer to the event.

The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society is under no obligation whatsoever in respect of any personal injury which you may sustain and you agree to conform to any rules or regulations which may be made from time to time and which govern your visit to Summer School.

Bookings will be accepted on the basis that this is a practical dancing course and your physical fitness should allow you to participate fully in both morning classes for all six days.

You may attend for one week or for a maximum of any two weeks. We hope that each week will offer something special but, if you choose to attend for two weeks there may be some duplication in content and staffing.

Attendees who decide to reside in accommodation other than University Hall or Agnes Blackadder Hall will be considered to be Non-Resident. 

Non-Residents have the opportunity to attend all classes and social events, having booked the accommodation of their choice. The Tourist Information Centre (01334 472021) can provide information on alternative accommodation in the town.

It is recommended that under 18 year olds attend Summer School during week 3. This will enable them to interact with other young dancers, as well as the general dance community at Summer School.

They must be accompanied by a responsible adult who must be either:

• Parent or legal guardian
• Grandparent
• Aunt or uncle ie sister or brother of a parent

There are discounts available as indicated for members of the RSCDS. 

If you have any questions please contact the Events Manager, Moira Thomson: moira.thomson@rscds.org 

Refunds

Every effort will be made to provide refunds up to 31st March 2024. Refunds will not be made for cancellations after this date. All refunds will be subject to an administrative charge of £80 per person. Attendees are strongly advised to have suitable insurance to cover any loss of fees in the event of illness, injury or other unavoidable circumstance.

Cancellation Policy

If, due to circumstances outside our control, we are required to cancel the Summer School event then we will inform all attendees and a full refund will be provided. The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society shall assume no liability for any losses resulting from individual pre-booked travel. Please check your personal travel insurance policy.

Insurance

Attendees are strongly advised to have suitable insurance to cover any loss of fees in the event of illness, injury or other unavoidable circumstance.

Covid Precautions

Please do NOT attend if you have received a positive Covid test result or have been instructed by the NHS to self-isolate in the week prior to Summer School.

All Covid rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland, but the virus has not gone away so please use 'Covid sense' to help protect yourself and others

Whilst vaccination is strongly encouraged, it is not mandatory for this event. Hand sanitisers will be made available at all dancing venues.

Photography & filming

Please note that filming/photography will take place during Summer School for promotional and archival purposes. The photographs and recordings may appear on our website, social media platforms or other publications.  If you would prefer not to be photographed or filmed then please inform the Marketing Officer, Lyndsay Walker (lyndsay.walker@rscds.org) or photographer on the day.

Summer School registration opens at 4pm every Sunday during the event period. Room keys can be picked up from the desk in the foyer of University Hall. Attendees arriving early are welcome to leave their bags.

Attendees staying in Agnes Blackadder Hall can check in at this building from 3pm onwards, then make their way to University Hall to register at the RSCDS office.

When departing please ensure that your room is cleared by 10am. Luggage may be left in the Music Room in the Lumsden wing until departure time. Please return your key to the University Manager’s office.

Attendees can opt to stay in either University Hall or Agnes Blackadder, both of which are located at St. Andrews University.

Summer School is based in University Hall, Kennedy Gardens. This is an historic building in its own attractive grounds near the University playing fields. The rooms are study bedrooms, either single or twin, many have wash-hand basins, but all other bathroom facilities are shared. 

Accommodation can also be booked in Agnes Blackadder Hall (formerly New Hall) for adults only. This venue is approximately 15 minutes from University Hall. All bedrooms have an en-suite shower, toilet and wash-hand basin. Most of the bedrooms have one double bed and can be occupied by one or two dancers. These rooms are compact when used for double occupancy and couples may prefer to have a room each. All rooms have a television. Agnes Blackadder Hall has a bar, spacious foyer and dining room, where breakfast is served.

The RSCDS Office, pop up shops and most social functions are based in University Hall.

Included in the booking fee is breakfast, lunch and dinner (dinner on the day you arrive and breakfast on the day you depart is also included). All meals are buffet style and dietary restrictions can be observed, so please make sure to let us know in the booking form.

Agnes Blackadder residents: please note that other than breakfast all meals will be eaten at University Hall in the Dining Hall. 

All university bedrooms are serviced daily and are provided with towels, and of course, bedlinen. Coffee/tea-making facilities are available in nearby well equipped kitchens.

Attendees who decide to reside in accommodation other than University Hall or Agnes Blackadder Hall will be considered Non-Resident.

Other University accommodation can be booked directly through St Andrews University and there are a number of hotels, B&B and caravans available in or near the town.

WiFi access

There is free WIFI access throughout University Hall and Agnes Blackadder Hall.

Laundry

Facilities available include washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. Washing machines and dryers operate by a downloadable app, Washstation. Details are displayed in the laundry rooms.

Please note - Scholarship applications for Summer School 2024 are now closed.

Unsuccessful applicants will still be able to get the early bird price.

Additionally, you can help spread the cost if you choose to pay via Paypal at time of booking. You can select 'Pay Later' and you won’t pay any interest on your balance for 4 months.

New Family Scholarship

Available for families with under 18-years-old dancers.

Family Scholarship - Information

Applications for Summer School 2024 Family Scholarship are now closed.

There is social dancing for all dancers attending Summer School on most evenings. This is held in University Hall and/or elsewhere. There is also a ceilidh each Friday evening which you may wish to join.

Every Thursday there are public dances in the Younger Hall. Dancers attending Summer School, (except morning only dancers) will not be required to buy a ticket as it is included in the Summer School fees. Tickets for non Summer School attendees will be released late May.

On these evenings there will be a ‘Nice and Easy’ dance in the Common Room at University Hall.

The designated responsible adult for Summer school MUST accompany young dancers aged 8 – 17 years to all social dances. Only dancers aged 8 years and above may be on the dance floor during social dancing.

Branches and Groups nearby also offer opportunities for social dancing during Summer School and details will be available from the RSCDS Office in University Hall.

Dance Programme

The smooth running of Summer School is successfully achieved through the collaborative efforts of RSCDS Office staff members, the Summer School teachers and musicians, as well as through the volunteer support generously given by attendees. If you wish to help, for example, by assisting at registration or in the pop up shop or by selling raffle tickets, then please select the appropriate box on the online booking form.

It would be very much appreciated if ALL dancers attending Summer School could give at least one hour to help make up the classes required for the practical teaching part of the examinations held at the end of Week 2 and Week 4. Some classes will be expected to do this as part of their morning tuition.

Location & venues

The venues for Summer School classes are located in both University Hall and around the town of St. Andrews. After breakfast at University Hall or Agnes Blackadder there is more than enough time to get to your class as the venues are located centrally in town - a maximum walk of approximately 25 – 30 minutes.

University Hall: Kennedy Gardens, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9DL

Agnes Blackadder Hall: North Haugh, University of St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9XW

Travel Information

If you plan to travel by road please consult the AA, RAC or equivalent on the best route and road conditions. 

If you plan to travel by air, Edinburgh Airport is nearest although onward travel by train and/or bus is available from Glasgow and Prestwick.

The nearest train station is Leuchars, where buses or taxis are available for onward travel.

Stagecoach and Strathtay Buses come to St. Andrews bus station.

The following website may help with your travel plans:

www.visitstandrews.com

It is very easy to become a member of the RSCDS, just follow these four simple steps:

1. Use the Branch & Group Finder to find a Branch closest to your location
2. Visit their website for membership information and email the Branch secretary to tell them you would like to join
3. Fill out a membership form (or download from their website) and send it in with the subscription fee
4. Enjoy the benefits of RSCDS membership!

If you don't have a branch near you, why not join HQ, the International Branch or the Youth Branch!