Understanding West Coast Swing levels
Our class nights and workshops
At EastonSwing, we use levels to help guide your learning. Each class is defined by a level so you know exactly what kind of content to expect. Our teaching method is carefully built around the full library of West Coast Swing patterns and techniques. We’ve taken the time to look at it all and organise it into levels that make sense. This means you get the right material at the right time. Nothing too overwhelming, and nothing too basic.
As you move through the levels, things get more challenging, but we’ve designed the journey to be smooth. No big jumps. Just steady, manageable progress. You’re free to choose the level that feels right for you, but to make sure you get the best experience, our team might suggest a different level if we think it’s a better fit.
Level 1
The starting point of West Coast Swing. This level consists of five basic patterns that introduce you to the footwork, timing and connection of the dance.
Level 2
Taking patterns and concepts from level 1, we introduce variations, and the idea of improvisation. Both essential skills for competence on the social floor.
Level 3
Consisting of 21 different lesson structures, with limitless combinations and variations, this level opens your eyes to the full catalogue of West Coast Swing.
Level 4
Providing that little bit extra. This level explores creativity through advanced patterns, and teaches the finer technique that allows you to truly master your dance.
Events
At our classes and workshops, levels are used to guide the structure of the content and help you progress through the material step by step. At dance events, though, the level system works a little differently.
When you attend an event, your level is usually based on your number of WSDC (World Swing Dance Council) points. Event organisers use your points to place you in a level, and that level determines your schedule for workshops. This system helps group dancers with others at a similar skill level, so everyone gets the most out of the workshops and can learn comfortably alongside others at the same stage.
You earn WSDC points by competing at registered events like Midland Swing Open, Detonation Dance, or Trinity Swing. Points are awarded when you reach the finals, and how many you get depends on your placement and how many dancers were in the division.
Most events also understand that not everyone competes, so many offer an audition option for those who would like to be considered for a higher level.
It’s worth noting that level systems aren’t the same everywhere. Each event may group levels differently. At EastonSwing, we use the following level categories.
Beginner
Just starting out. We advise these dancers to join our Zero to Hero programme. No prerequisite to apply at this level.
Newcomer
Got the basics of the dance under control but want to develop a deeper confidence for the social floor. No prerequisite to apply at this level.
Novice
Have a firm understanding of the dance and are confident on the social floor. No prerequisite to apply at this level.
Intermediate
To apply at this level you need to have at least 16 Novice points, earned through competition. Dancers without points who want to enter this level should book as a Novice and then attend auditions.
Advanced
To apply at this level you need to have at least 30 Intermediate points, earned through competition. Intermediate dancers, and those with no points, can audition for this level.
All Star
At least 80 Advanced points. This represents the highest level of our dance.
Always remember!
While levels help us structure our classes and events, it’s important to remember that they don’t define you as a person. The most important thing is to have fun. No matter your skill or experience, there’s always something to learn in any class or workshop. We believe in creating a supportive community where everyone feels welcome.
Levels are simply a tool to help us give you the best experience possible, but they’re not the full story. What matters most is that you enjoy dancing and grow at your own pace.