Questions You May Have
Introducing something new naturally brings questions, and that's completely understandable.
We've brought together the answers to the questions parents are most likely to ask about Explore & Evolve. If you can't find what you're looking for, please don't hesitate to get in touch—we're always happy to help.
Understanding explore & evolve
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As Simply The Best Stage School continues to grow, we want to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn and develop in an environment that best suits them.
The new programmes recognise that children enjoy performing arts for different reasons and have different goals.
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Absolutely not.
Both programmes are equally valued. The difference is not ability—it's the level of commitment each programme requires.
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Not if they don't want to.
Many children will thrive in Explore throughout their time at Simply The Best Stage School, whilst others may choose Evolve because they are looking for additional challenge and are happy to commit to the expectations of the programme.
Both pathways are equally valued.
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Both programmes include drama, singing, musical theatre, confidence building and performance opportunities.
The difference isn't talent or ability.
Explore is about participation.
Evolve is about commitment.
Explore is ideal for children who enjoy performing in a fun, relaxed and supportive environment.
Evolve is designed for children who are looking for additional challenge and are committed to developing their performance skills.
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Yes.
Children grow, develop and change over time. If another programme would better suit your child in the future, we will always be happy to discuss this with you.
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That's completely okay.
If you're unsure which programme would best suit your child, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We will always be happy to discuss the options and help you choose the pathway where your child will thrive.
classes & commitment
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Yes.
Children are welcome to attend both Explore and Evolve if they would like to benefit from both learning experiences.
Children attending both programmes will also be expected to meet the commitment expectations of Evolve, including attending additional rehearsals where required.
Please see membership & fees below for more information
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Explore is a term-time programme and does not run during the school holidays.
Evolve is a year-round programme. Classes continue throughout the year, although days and times may occasionally vary during school holidays to accommodate rehearsals, performances and other events. Parents will always be given advance notice of any changes.
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No. There is no formal audition to join Evolve.
Most children will begin their journey in Explore, where they can develop their confidence, skills and love for performing arts. If a child expresses an interest in joining Evolve, we will assess whether they are ready for the additional commitment and expectations of the programme.
If we feel they would benefit from spending more time in Explore first, we will always discuss this with you. Our aim is to ensure every child joins Evolve when the time is right for them.
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Evolve is recommended for students aged 9–11. However, we understand that every child develops at their own pace. Where appropriate, we may invite younger students to join Evolve if we feel they are ready for the additional challenge and commitment. These decisions are made on an individual basis following observations in class.scription
Performances & OPPORTUNITIES
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Absolutely.
Children in Explore will continue to perform in productions, festivals and showcases as part of the ensemble.
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Children in Evolve may have opportunities for featured roles, solos and additional responsibilities where appropriate, but these are never guaranteed and will always depend on the production.
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Yes.
Children from both programmes remain part of the Simply The Best Stage School family and will continue to perform together in productions, festivals and showcases where appropriate.
The programmes simply provide different learning experiences whilst sharing the same values of confidence, creativity and a love of performing.
membership & fees
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Explore Membership
£20 per month (September–July)
Evolve Membership
£20 per month
Explore & Evolve Membership
£35 per month
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Explore is a membership programme that runs during the school term.
Your annual membership is spread evenly across September to July, so your monthly payment remains the same throughout the year, even though the number of classes may vary due to school holidays and term dates.
Your membership secures your child's place within the programme and covers the full year's term-time tuition, rather than paying for a specific number of classes each month.