Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do if my child has additional needs?

Before booking a trial visit, we encourage you to discuss your child’s needs with a Team member. Balance & Beam is an Ofsted-registered venue offering Curriculum-Based Measurement (CBM) age-appropriate classes that support children’s physical, intellectual, emotional and social development. We incorporate the EYFS Key Stage 1 & 2 Framework and concentrate on encouraging motivation, physical motor skill development and cognitive learning. All coaches are well-equipped to support children with autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, hypermobile joints and coordination difficulties.

My child is nervous/anxious. Are your classes appropriate? 

Please talk to a Team member before booking a trial visit to discuss your child’s needs. Every Balance & Beam Programme supports children’s physical, intellectual, emotional and social development. We realise that many children can be nervous or anxious before class, not just their first. Our friendly coaches are welcoming and can allay any fears you or your child may have, before, during and after class.

Who is the Baby Bugs Course for?

A Baby Bugs Course is a Parent & Child Programme for parents of babies 4 months to walking.

How long is a Baby Bugs Course?

The course lasts for ten classes.

What happens when my Baby Bugs Course ends?

Once a course is complete, you can re-enrol your child into another Baby Bugs course or, if your child is now walking, the next age-appropriate class.

What happens if I cannot attend a Baby Bugs class?

Any missed classes will be tagged onto the end of your 10-week course so that you can still complete all ten classes.

What happens when I finish maternity leave and have to return to work?

Please speak with a Team member to discuss your options.

What happens at a Holiday Camp and how do I book?

Balance & Beam Holiday Camps take place during school holidays and can be purchased as a full or half-day. Camps are themed and qualified coaches supervise all activities. Healthy snacks are provided. Please visit our Camps page to see what we do and how to book.

Do I have to stay whilst my child is in Holiday Camp?

Nope, just drop off your little ones and go. Please remember to pick them up at the end of the session, though 🙂. We’ll have your number if we need to contact you during the day. To find out more and to book, please our Camps page.

Do I have to be a member to book a Holiday Camp?

No. Balance & Beam Holiday Camps are open to members and non-members. To find out more and to book, please visit our Camps page.

How big are Balance & Beam classes?

Balance & Beam classes are kept small with a ratio of 7:1 per coach. The maximum class size is 24 in the independent Pre-school and Primary School classes and 15 in Parent & Child classes. Some mid-week classes may be smaller depending on the day you choose to participate.

How long are Balance & Beam classes?

Parent & Child classes last 45 minutes and all classes from 3 years up last for one hour.


How frequent are Balance & Beam classes?

Balance & Beam classes run seven days per week.

How often can my child come to a class?

Children attend their chosen class once a week on a scheduled day and time. If you need to switch days due to shift patterns, holidays or sickness, we offer a cancellation/make-up policy so that you never miss a class.

What is the difference between a Programme and a Class?

A Programme is the group of classes your child belongs to, i.e. Parent & Child (4 months to walking), Pre School (3 – 6 years) or Primary School (6 to 12 years). A Class is the specific age-appropriate session they attend, i.e. Caterpillars or Speedy Spiders.

Do I have to stay whilst my child is in class?

For younger children (3-4 years), we recommend you stay in case of toilet trips, but if you have a confident child who won’t miss you, feel free to pop out. Just let us know and ensure you leave a contact number if we need to call you. For Parent & Child classes, you will be in the gym with the child… just saying 😊

Your classes are only up to age 12. What happens once my child reaches this age?

Sadly, 12 years is the age limit. Still, we hope your child has had a positive experience with the Balance & Beam Team and has gained the confidence to move on to other activities, whether team sports in or out of school or further gymnastics classes. Gymnastics is the single best physical grounding tool you can give to your child to help with balance and co-ordination – most other physical activities require this as a base.

I think my child is struggling – what can I do?

Speak to a member of the Balance & Beam Team. We want your child to be happy and have fun in their classes and we are here to help in any way we can. The more we get to know you and your child, the better we can understand their needs.

I think my child is too advanced for their class – what can I do?

Speak to a senior member of the Balance & Beam Team. Classes are kept age-appropriate to target motor skill development and mental agility during the correct phase of those all-important developmental years. When we feel your child is ready to move on to the next class, we will discuss the options with you. There may be reasons why we haven’t moved them, but the Team will always discuss these reasons with you.

What happens to my class if it falls on a Bank Holiday?

If your class falls on a Bank Holiday when regular classes run, you will be entitled to a make-up credit. The credit will show in your Member Dashboard. If the Bank Holiday falls during Christmas, the gym will be closed and no make-up credit will be required. A full list of our closures during some school holidays is available online.

What happens if my child misses a class?

If your child cannot attend a class due to holidays or sickness, you need to log into your Member Dashboard by 9:30 am on the day of your class to be entitled to a make-up credit. Once logged in, cancel the class and choose a suitable date for your make-up session. Unfortunately, if you cancel after this time, we cannot offer you a make-up credit.

When will my child move to the next class?

All our classes are age-appropriate.  A senior member of our team will assess your child and we will move them to the next age-appropriate class when we feel they are ready, based on their development, physically or mentally.  This will also depend on a space being available.  We will always discuss options with you

Why can't I cancel my class and receive a make-up credit if I cancel after 9.30am?

Balance & Beam work hard to ensure all classes run smoothly and that each session has the appropriate coach-to-children ratio. Staff rotas are structured according to the number of children booked into a class to avoid disruption and ensure each child gets the support they need.

Are your classes competitive?

Balance & Beam does not promote a competitive gymnastics environment. All classes are age-appropriate, with themes and activities to nurture happy, healthy children. Our format follows six engaging, interactive aspects for positive child development.

How do I find the right class for my child?

Balance & Beam Programmes are age-appropriate, for example, Parent & Child (4 months to walking), Pre School (3 – 6 years) or Primary School (6 to 12 years). Within each Programme, there are three separate classes based on age and ability. Please contact a Team member via our contact page if you’re unsure.

What is a Balance & Beam Event?

Balance & Beam Events are a range of fun, educational and supportive special classes, workshops and talks for our members and their families. The events will usually take place outside of our regular class timetable.

Who are Balance & Beam Events for?

The types of events on offer will vary. Some events will be for the entire family, whereas others will be specific for parents and carers. Full details will be included in the write-up for each event.

How much are the Events?

Most Balance & Beam Events are free to members and aim to support, inform and entertain your entire family as an added value service. It’s our way of giving back and saying thank you for trusting us with your child’s Early Years Development. Should any event require a fee due to external costs or materials, this will be highlighted before booking.

How do I book an Event?

You can book an event from your Member Dashboard.

Who will be teaching my child in class?

Balance & Beam have an incredible Team of coaches who love teaching your little ones. Head to the 'Meet the team' page to see who’s who.

Is there anywhere to get a drink?

Yes, we have a great coffee machine that offers a variety of hot drinks. Payment is required by debit or credit card or contactless Apple, Google or Samsung Pay, etc.

What clothing does my child have to wear during a class?

Your child will need to enter the gym barefoot and wear comfortable clothing that they can easily move in. Jeans, tights and restrictive clothing are not allowed.

Can I enrol more than one child if they are different ages?

Sure thing. Classes are available from 4 months to 12 years, so head to the classes page and review the timetable. From there, you can book a free trial.

Can I bring my other children to B&B if they aren’t enrolled in a Programme?

Yes, of course. We have a large lobby viewing area where you must always supervise your children. Our party room is available as a quiet room for carrying out school homework or eating snacks, but you will still need to supervise your children.

Can I work whilst I wait in the lobby area?

Yes, of course. If you need to catch up on your work, please feel free to use your laptop whilst on site and access our free Wi-Fi. Plug sockets can be found at various points throughout the lobby.

I’ve read about a parent viewing area – what is this?

Balance & Beam has a large lobby area where parents can sit and watch their child in the gym through the large windows. If you attend a Parent & Child class as two parents, one of you will be in the gym with your child and the other can sit and watch your activities from the viewing area.

Do you have a water machine?

A water machine with paper cups is available in the lobby. However, we recommend you bring your own named water bottle with you. Alternatively, purchase a fun Balance & Beam water bottle from the reception desk. 

Can I take a drink into the gym?

You can bring drinks into the gym, BUT only in a named water bottle. Cups are not allowed in the gym; we recommend water, not juice or fizzy drinks.


Can I use my make-up credits for Summer Classes during the August school holiday?

If you are enrolled as a member, any make-up credits accrued before the summer school holidays will be carried over and available from September when our regular timetable resumes. Any unused credits will be lost if your child un-enrols from the Programme.

Can I swap my make-up credits for a holiday camp?

Make-up credits can only be exchanged for a regular class during the weeks and months of our normal timetable.

How do I cancel a class?

You can cancel a class on your Member Dashboard. Click on ‘View classes/Badges’ and then click on the class you wish to cancel. If you cancel the class before 9:30 am on the same day, you will be entitled to a make-up credit to use another day for the same age-appropriate class. Classes must be cancelled on your Dashboard by 9.30am on the morning of your class for you to be award a make up credit.

How do I book a make-up credit for a cancelled class?

You can book a make-up credit from your Member Dashboard. Click on ‘view classes/badges’ then on your child’s classes. You will then see 'Book a Make Up class'. Click this button and then choose from the calendar when you would like to attend. Make-up credits entitle you to a book an alternative time slot or day for the same class.

I can’t see a 'Book a Make Up' Button on my Dashboard

Please follow the steps in How do I book a make-up credit for a cancelled class?

What happens if there is no class availability to book my make-up credit?

If you are unable to book a class to use your make-up credit, please contact a member of the Team to check availability.

Can I use my make-up credits against my monthly fees?

Make-up credits can only be exchanged for a regular class during the weeks and months of our normal timetable.

What is the Member Dashboard?

The Member Dashboard is where you access your personal account and see upcoming classes, reminders and payment information. You can sign in by clicking here if you're already a member.

How do I become a member?

If you want to join a Programme, please create an account to sign up for classes. Head over to our timetable and select the appropriate class for your child. At this point, you can arrange a free trial class or enrol your child immediately. 

When are you open?

Balance & Beam is open seven days a week. Monday to Friday, we’re open from 9.00 am until late, Saturdays from 8.30 am – 5.00 pm and Sundays from 8.30 am – 6.00 pm for classes and Parties. The gym is closed on all Bank Holiday days and for two weeks over the Christmas and New Year period.

Are you open during school holidays?

Balance & Beam classes run throughout the year and during some school holidays. Please check your local council school term time and refer to the Balance & Beam annual calendar. 

Easter break opening hours are usually from 9.00 am – 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday
Throughout August, opening hours are 9.00 am – 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday
Balance & Beam is closed for two weeks over the Christmas and New Year period

Where do I park?

Free parking is available on the Waterworld car park when you enter your correct vehicle registration into our tablet at reception.

Is car parking free?

Free parking is available on the Waterworld car park when you enter your correct vehicle registration into our tablet at reception.

What happens if I get a parking ticket from Waterworld?

You will need to appeal your parking ticket online. There’s nothing we can do if you have not entered your vehicle registration into the reception tablet at the time of your class. A reminder during all classes is given to help you remember. 

What happens at a Balance & Beam Party and how do I book?

Balance & Beam Parties are available for boys and girls of all ages (up to 8 years) and groups of up to 28 children. There are three party packages to choose from that include music, games, obstacle courses and laughter. Trained Party Hosts lead each party group to meet the unique needs of each child. Your Party Hosts will also set up the room and clear away the mess, so all you need to do is turn up and relax. Please head over to our Parties page to see what we do and how to book.

Can I book a party if I don’t attend classes?

You certainly can. Balance & Beam parties are open to members and non-members. Please learn more and book by visiting our Parties page.

How much do classes cost?

Balance & Beam classes cost £65 per month. For more information, visit our pricing page.

How do I pay for classes?

All monthly class payments are taken by direct debit.

Do you offer a sibling discount?

Sibling discounts are available for the third child enrolling.


What is the annual Family Membership fee?

The Balance & Beam Family Membership is an annual fee that covers the entire family whilst attending classes at the gym for insurance, car park and make-up credit fees.  Members will also receive exclusive discounts on Parties and Holiday Camps. For more details, please visit the pricing page.

What is continuous enrolment?

The Balance & Beam continuous enrolment eliminates the need for term-time re-enrolment. It ensures your child can join a Programme of weekly classes at any time throughout the year if space allows. We ask for an initial two month settling in period to let children get used to our classes and structure.


How do I cancel my membership?

If you wish to leave a Balance & Beam Programme, you must give us at least one month’s written notice. Please refer to our full terms and conditions.

Can I change my payment date?

Changing a payment date is possible, depending on the date you require and when your membership began. Please contact a Team member via your Dashboard by selecting ‘Got a Question’ to discuss your preferences.

I’m not here for a month. Do I still need to pay for classes?

Please contact a Team member via your Dashboard by selecting ‘Got a Question’ to discuss your circumstances.

Why has my payment been paused in August?

Your payment is automatically paused for August and will be reinstated from September when our regular timetable recommences. This allows you to enjoy the summer holidays without worrying about cancelling classes. If you want to book your child into a Summer Class, you can do this on your Member Dashboard by selecting ‘Book a Summer Class’. This button will only show from May to September.

I’m not here in August. Do I still need to pay for classes?

Your payment is automatically paused for August and will be reinstated from September when our regular timetable recommences. You can book Summer Classes on an ad hoc basis through your Member Dashboard by selecting ‘Book a Summer Class’. This button will only show from May to September.

Can I come to classes in August?

Our weekly timetable changes during August to accommodate attendance, holidays and work commitments. You can still book your child into a Holiday Camp or Summer Class. Please visit our Camps page or review the Summer Class timetable (which shows on a seasonal basis) to book.

What happens in a Trial Class?

Trials sessions occur during regular classes so you and your child can experience physical activities and wellbeing exercises suitable for their age, skills and ability. You will see the safe environment our purpose-built gym has to offer, get a feel for our culture and meet the Team.

Do I have to book a Trial Class?

It’s up to you. If you want to see what happens during a class and how they are run, it would be beneficial to visit the timetable and choose a day and time to experience a suitable class. Alternatively, if you’ve heard great things about Balance & Beam, you can sign up immediately by heading to the classes page and choosing an appropriate class. If the class is full, you may need to select another day.

I’ve booked a trial class, but now I can’t attend – what do I do?

If you can’t attend your trial session, please inform the Team by calling 01782 214452.