Our classes are normally divided into four levels; from level one for the absolute beginner, through to level four for the more experienced dancers (dancers from elsewhere joining us for the first time are encouraged to visit a lower level to get used to the way we teach). Sometimes levels are combined or have their content changed temporarily because of special circumstances; in preparation for up-coming workshops, requests from our members, availability of floor space, and so on.

Otherwise the principal content of each level remains the same, so that you don’t miss out on anything as you move upwards. However, each of our teachers is encouraged to present the lesson in his/her own way. And because the teachers are rotated through the levels, the lessons remain fresh and interesting because of the different presentation. What is more, you are more likely to come across and adopt the style that suits you the most. You wouldn’t normally have this opportunity if you were being taught by only one teacher.

Level One
This level is for those who are new to salsa; either absolute beginners or those who have been dancing for a few weeks.
We help you form a salsa foundation with seven easy patterns: side-to side, back basic, turning basic, latin basic, cross basic, cucaracha and single right turn. Normally four patterns are taught per session and linked together. You also learn salsa timing; how to count yourself in, and dance to the music using these patterns.
Then comes the fun bit, when you get to dance the patterns with someone else. Actually you get to salsa with a lot of other people, since we change your partners very frequently.

Level Two
In level two you encounter a style we call “rueda” (meaning wheel) but not as you might know it. Our version describes the fine and wonderful art of dancing circles around your partner (see the FAQ).
Here you learn how to dance the salsa turns; to the left, to the right, be you man or woman, and how hands are changed before and during the turns. You are also taught how to dance the salsa walks, in straight lines and in curving patterns (making them as groovy as you want them to be). All of these form the building blocks for the fancier turn combinations that you will come across later. Bring a sense of creativity into this level and you’ll soon be making up moves of your own!

Level Three
There is so much stuff in level three that we can’t cover it all in one session, so we teach one half one week and the other half the following week. We alternate between the combinations most commonly found in Britain, and the essential moves of North American salsa, so that you get a taste of salsa from all over the world.

British combinations:
The moves taught here form the backbone of nearly all other combinations in the British style. They are: the arm wrap into cuddlehold (sometimes called the basket), the alternating cuddlehold breakthrough (sometimes called the octopus), and the figure eight. The names of the moves are more difficult to say than they are to do. But not only are they easy to dance, they look good too.

North American combinations:
The cross body lead (CBL) is the “key” that unlocks the North American combinations, and most moves that follow it have turns to the right. We tend to use an alternating turn combination tagged onto the end of the CBL called “she turns-he turns-she turns”. Knowing these moves will make your next holiday to Cuba and the United States enjoyable beyond measure!

Level Four
The stuffing in level four changes every week. There are more things in it than Imelda Marcos has shoes. Moves and combinations are taught individually, or as variations of each other, whichever makes it easier for you to remember and apply them. You’ll also pick up bits that help you make the most of what you already know. Being able to dance salsa and express yourself to music needs a variety in moves and the skill to do them. In level four you get both.