Frequently asked questions for workshops
What should my kids wear to the workshop?
As the StarTime workshops are highly active, we ask that children wear comfortable clothing and bring layers i.e. a cardigan for break time when they may cool down. It is StarTime’s policy to ensure all children are wearing appropriate footwear i.e. enclosed shoes, which have ankle support, preferably sneakers if they are participating in hip-hop dance classes.
Do you supply food and drink?
No the workshop is not catered for, however there will be water provided at the workshop. We stop for 3 breaks on each day of the workshop; Morning tea, Lunch and Afternoon Tea. There are no canteens or shops to buy food, so please ensure your child brings along with them whatever you feel is adequate for the day. It is also advisable to pack a drink bottle and/or water bottle. StarTime takes no responsibility for the food consumed at the workshops. It is StarTime’s policy to guarantee our best effort to ensure children eat their food. We realise how important it is to these growing bodies that they replenish their energy levels at break time. We have therefore introduced a procedure to regulate this. At Break time the StarTime Break Monitor will encourage the kids to sit down and eat their lunch. If the Break Monitor discovers children who are not eating on their break, it is their responsibility to inform the Head StarCoach who will decide whether it is necessary to inform the parent. We believe it’s just as important to look after children’s health as it is their safety.
What should my child bring with them to the workshop?
A water bottle is always advisable. A jumper or cardigan in case they get cold during break times. In the case of our holiday workshops we do encourage any children who play a musical instrument to bring it along to the workshop for talent quests and/or to involve in drama activities. Sometimes we do have theme days like ‘crazy hair day’ or ‘rock-star day’ so they may bring associated props for these activities.
Do I have to book in for the whole workshop or can my child just come to the first day?
You are most welcome to try the first day at a discounted price. You can then decide how you're child enjoyed the day before committing to the rest of the workshop. We work towards a performance in all our workshops, so it's important that your child gives a full committment when they've enrolled into the complete workshop. It not only offers the most fun, but also gives the child a sense of achievement to be involved in producing and performing in a show at the end of the week.
My child has allergies. How will she be cared for during the workshop?
It is important that StarTime are informed of your child's allergies when booking into the workshop. We keep this information on file, to alert the Star Coach. We also advise that you bring this to the attention of the Head Coach and provide them with the steps which need to be taken if an allergic reaction takes place at the workshop. StarTime have a "No nut policy".
Can I stay and watch the workshop?
From our experience when parents stay to watch the workshop it's often a distraction to the kids, especially for the child. We don't encourage this, but in some special circumstances we do allow this. If you feel concerned about leaving your child at the workshop please speak to the Star Coach prior to the workshop commencing.
Can I pick my child up early from the workshop?
If it's a rare situation that requires you to pick up your child early then we're happy to accommodate this. We don't allow this arrangement on a regular basis, as it's very disruptive to the class and is no benefit to the child.
Where will they keep their bags and belongings during the workshop?
Please be sure to explain to any child attending a STS workshop that they must take responsibility for their own belongings and must keep their bags in the designated area (we will remind them of this). There is always a StarCoach present to look after bags and belongings however, it is advisable that they do not bring anything highly valuable.
How are the kids supervised?
Children are not allowed outside the designated room(s), without the expressed permission of a StarCoach. There will always be two StarCoaches teaching during class hours and at least one StarCoach on duty during break hours. Under no circumstance are children left unsupervised. For junior students (i.e. 8yrs & under) a buddy system is established at the commencement of the workshop to ensure buddies look after each other during break times and go to the toilet together.
What should happen in the case of an accident or if my child feels ill during class?
A complete first aid kit is always on hand for every StarCoach. In case of an emergency accident or if a child falls ill, the Head StarCoach is responsible for supervising the remaining children while the StarCoach attends to the ill child, contacts the parents if necessary and fills out an accident report. It is the Head StarCoach’s responsibility to follow up with the parents of the child before the commencement of the next day’s workshop, to check on the well being of the child.
What age groups do you cater for and do the kids get broken up into age groups?
The School Holiday Workshops cater for children 6-14 years of age. We also run ‘Twinkle Time Workshops’ for children 3-5 years. We do warm-ups and some games are played as a group before the kids are broken into 3 groups according to age/ability.
What are the group sizes?
We ensure a low student to coach ratio, so there is no more than 10 students per StarCoach. We will put on an assistant coach when the numbers exceed the class limit.
Do many boys attend the workshop?
StarTime workshops are designed for both girls and boys. We make it our priority to keep up to date with the latest trends, songs, characters and themes so that all our workshops are relevant and enjoyable for everyone. The boys are quite often out numbered by the girls, but the boys who do attend enjoy it immensely. It is Lindsay Moss' (creative director) ambition to encourage as many boys as possible to explore the performing arts, as it can be just as rewarding as sport. We have found hip hop dancing a great way to do this.
Can they bring a friend, brother or sister along?
Absolutely! All children attending the workshop must be enrolled prior to the day of the workshop but we do offer drop-in rates for kids who would like to try the first day to see if they like it. We also offer special discounts for children who bring a friend or sibling. To view our workshop discounts click here
How can I contact you (or my child) should we need to on the day?
Should you need to contact us or your child during the workshop you can call the StarTime office on 1300 463 513 or the mobile: 0410 586 483. The Head StarCoach’s phone number will also be supplied to parents prior to the workshop.
What if my child cannot attend the whole workshop?
As the workshops run over a few days culminating in a Final Performance Show for friends and family on the last day, it is preferable for all kids to attend every day of the workshop. Also so that they get to share the full experience with their friends! We do however, offer drop-in rates for kids that can only attend the first day, see below.
How much does it cost?
Spring & Summer Spectaculars'
4 Days = $335
5 Days = $395
1st day drop in = $78
Winter & Autumn Extravaganzas'
4 Days = $335
5 Days = $395
1st day drop in = $78
Born To Perform workshops
4 Days = $295
Day rate = $75
TV & Cooking workshops
3 Days = $375
SparkleTime workshops
3 Days = $135
Day rate = $55
How do I book and pay?
To secure a spot in a holiday or after school (term) workshop we encourage you to book and pay online, either click on the "Bookings" page or enrol through the "Workshops" page. Bookings may be made directly through the StarTime office by phoning: 1300 463 513. Please leave a message if the office is unattended. Payment can made by sending a cheque to: StarTime (PO Box 645, Edgecliff NSW 2038) or by credit card over the phone prior to the commencement of the workshop. StarTime accepts Visa and MasterCard only.
Is there a cancellation fee?
Refunds will only be considered if a minimum of 48 hours notice is given prior to the commencement of the relevant StarTime workshop. All refunds incur a $20 administration fee:
2 - 1 weeks out: 25% of workshop fee
1 week - 48hrs out: 50% of workshop fee
less than 48hrs: 100% of workshop fee.
As an alternative and last resort to paying the cancellation fee, participants can transfer their place to a friend of similar age and ability (if in a graded class). StarTime Studios reserves the right to cancel a workshop for reasons beyond our control.
If this happens, all fees will be fully refunded or transferred to another course.
Do you have public liability insurance?
Yes. StarTime are covered for up to $10Million for Public Liability Insurance
What are the teachers like?
For your peace of mind, all StarCoaches have passed an official NSW Working with Children check. For more information about our coaches please click here.
What are the start and finish times?
We do understand it can be difficult to always be on time however, it is important for kids to stick to the schedule as much as possible so that they don’t miss out on any essential warm-ups or exercises. At the end of the day a StarTime Coach will be present to make sure all children are picked up so please be considerate with timing. Start/Finish times differ for each workshop – please check the Workshop Timetable here for start finish times.
Apart from gaining performance skills, what other benefits do your workshops offer?
We are in the business of confidence building for children and young people. We work hard to create an environment where children’s ideas and creativity is validated and celebrated.
The StarTime teaching policy is fun and encouragement. If a student says “I can’t do that” we will turn it around to show that they are “LEARNING to do that.” We pride ourselves on positive feedback and patience. StarTime has built its reputation on providing and atmosphere which is fun, relaxed and safe. Once this is established - using these guidelines - learning and achieving effective results becomes far easier.
Are there any awards or reward systems at the workshops?
All children will receive a StarTime Graduation Certificate at the end of the workshop detailing what ‘areas’ they have completed successfully i.e. Hip Hop dance, Acting for Camera, Musical Theatre. We also award a StarTime Oscar and other daily awards during the workshop. Click here for StarSystem document.
What does the Presentation to family & friends involve?
For the duration of the workshop, the children and StarCoaches work together to present a professionally organised show for the friends and family which is held on the last day of the workshop (usually the last hour but you will be advised of exact time by the Head Coach at the workshop). The StarTime performance show is the kid’s big moment to shine and show what they have learnt and achieved over the duration of the workshop!
Workshop Discounts
10% early bird discount if you book into a holiday workshop and pay 4 weeks out from the school holiday workshop. To view the current early bird date click here.
5% family discount if you book more than one child into a holiday workshop from the same family*
10% bring a new friend discount for every new friend you bring to a holiday workshop*
* NOTE: A maximum of 20% discount is permitted per family. The 5% family discount only applies if enrolling into the full duration of the workshop. The 10% bring a new friend discount only applies if you're introducing a new friend who has not previously attended a StarTime Workshop. The discount can only be given if the new friend has enrolled and paid in full.
Frequently asked questions for parties
What age groups do you cater for?
3-12 years of age.
StarTime parties are broken into 2 age group categories: 3-6 years of age / 6-12 years of age and are based on the most popular characters for that age group
What types of parties do you run?
Musical Parties:
• High School Musical
• Hannah Montana
• Rock star
• Mamma Mia
• Disco
• Hip Hop Funk Star
Super Hero Parties:
A wide variety of your favourite Superheroes and crime fighters!
Specialty Parties:
• Pirate
• Ninja
• Bob the Builder
• Ben 10
• Princess
• Fairy
• Harry Potter (magicians?)
• Clown
• Film Star
• Sporting – Coach Cropper
How does the party run? What is involved?
Every party is tailored around the age group, requested character(s) and/or theme and so, every party is unique! However, all StarTime parties do include physical activities, games and music! We are happy to run any specific games or activities your child may want and this can be arranged on booking.
How long does the entertainment run for?
Most StarTime parties run for 1-1.5 hours. There is a minimum call out of 1 hour.
Do we need to provide anything?
Only the location (An appropriately sized area for the amount of children attending) and a power point or power source (If the party is in a park, please advise on booking so we can provide a battery operated stereo).
Do we need to do anything while the performance is running?
Generally the parents don’t need to do anything but sit back enjoy some free time! The StarTime Entertainer will run a captivating party so you can relax! We sometimes find that if the parents get involved just at the beginning, it can help the younger kids (3-5 yrs old) get excited.
When should the StarTime Entertainer arrive?
We recommend that the StarTime Entertainer arrives approx 30 minutes after the party has started. This allows time for all the children to arrive and settle in. Then when the entertainer arrives they can jump straight into it rather than stopping and starting the games as new children arrive.
How do we know when the StarTime entertainer has arrived?
Your StarTime Entertainer will ring you before entering the party, to let you know that she/he has arrived and is ready to enter. StarTime suggests that the parents gather all the kids together for a grand entrance!
How does the StarTime Entertainer make their entrance?
StarTime Entertainers like to make a dynamic entrance to set the tone of the party. It could be springing out from behind a tree or door, jumping over a fence or emerging secretly from a surprise location. We can arrange this with you on booking.
How much room do you need for the games/activities?
This depends on how many children are attending the party. Ample space is required to play games and run around. A backyard, rumpus room or even a park is ideal, depending on numbers. However, in saying that, our StarTime Entertainers are experienced in working within all sorts of spaces and environments. Where less space is available, some games may be modified.
How many children can you entertain?
1 Entertainer can entertain up to 20 children.
If more than 20, we will ascertain at the time of booking whether a second Entertainer is required or if there is a parent available to assist.
What do you do if it rains?
If the party is held in a park or outside area, we suggest a wet-weather contingency plan. If it’s raining the StarTime Entertainer will simply run games inside rather than outside, dependant on the type of party. Please see our postponement/cancellation terms below in the case of party cancellation/postponement due to weather.
Are there any problems with StarTime Entertainers performing at a hired party venue?
Most venues do have their own unique party policies. If you are hiring a venue, please check with them regarding rules for external entertainers.
Most venues will insist on public liability insurance to which StarTime is insured for up to $10 Million. (Please see below information regarding insurance)
StarTime is happy to liaise with hire venues if required.
What if I have both boys AND girls at my party? Does your Entertainer cater to both?
The StarTime Entertainer will run games and activities and use music that all children can enjoy, as a group. If we know the party is ‘all boys’ or ‘all girls’ then we can tailor the games, activities and music accordingly.
Do the children ever get frightened by any of the characters?
This very rarely happens but when it does, it is generally with the characters that are wearing a mask.
In this event, the Entertainer may decide to remove their mask and show ‘the other side of their character’ i.e.: Spiderman will reveal his true “secret’ identity as Peter Parker.
The StarTime Entertainers are highly experienced dealing with children and know when to back off and give the child some time to get comfortable before gently encouraging them to join the activities.
Can we change the character we have booked?
Yes, however a minimum of 3 days notice is required.
Do you provide a birthday present and/or any game prizes?
The StarTime Entertainer will always bring a present for the birthday boy or girl. They will also provide prizes for games and will ensure ALL children receive at least one small prize during the activities.
What sort of prizes do you give?
Prizes vary according to the age group. Some examples include:
• Bubble blowers
• Fake tattoos
• Glitter bracelets, rings, necklaces
• Rocket balloons
• Bouncy balls
• Water pistols
• Key rings
Do you provide lolly bags?
Unfortunately, due to various dietary restrictions and preferences, the Entertainer will not bring lolly bags. StarTime Parties take no responsibility for any food or beverages provided/consumed at the party.
Can we serve food during the performance?
Of course, we are flexible with this. It can be a good idea to have some food and drink laid out for any child that may get hungry or thirsty. However, StarTime parties are high energy from beginning to end and so to keep the flow of the party going, it is best to minimise meal breaks. The StarTime Entertainer is experienced enough to know when kids may need a rest or a drink break and respond to this naturally.
Does the Entertainer stay for the cutting of the cake?
The StarTime Entertainer will be happy to do the cake at any time during the performance although we have found it is often best to have the cake at the end of the performance, as the Entertainer can then make a stealth exit
Can you give me an idea of some of the types of games you do?
Again this depends on the age range of the children attending. Some of our popular games are:
• Pass the parcel (themed version)
• Musical statues
• Limbo
• Ship to shore (themed version)
• Treasure Hunt
• Tug o war
• Simon says (themed version)
For our hip-hop/so you think you can dance/musical theatre parties, the Entertainer will also teach a dance routine and/or go through songs. (i.e.: an ‘Australian Idol’ type competition)
Can we take video footage and/or photos?
Yes please do!
What is the cost?
StarTime offer highly competitive prices. Costing depends on a number of factors. Please contact us for a customised quote.
How do I make payment?
StarTime require a $50 deposit to secure the booking. Payment in full can be made via Visa, MasterCard, direct deposit or cheque anytime prior to the party.
Are there any cancellation charges?
There is a 100% cancellation charge if you cancel the party within 24 hours. In the case of cancellation within 5 working days, or postponement to another date, you will forfeit the $50 deposit.
What locations do you travel to? Are there any extra charges for working outside of these areas?
We do charge a small, $10 travel fee for all bookings.
We are based in the Sydney Metro area. For any suburbs located over 40km will incur an additional travel charge.
If there are any changes on the day, how can we contact the StarTime Entertainer?
Within 3 days of the party, you will be provided with the StarTime Entertainer’s mobile number. Alternatively you can call the StarTime mobile: 0410 586 483.
Have all your Entertainer’s undergone an official working with children check? Yes!
Are you covered by public liability insurance?
Yes, we are insured to the value of $10,000,000
Do you do corporate events?
Yes, we can cater to your entire event and entertainment needs. Please [click here] to view our corporate events page.
Do you have any references?
Yes. Please [click here] to view our reference page.