We pride ourselves on being a small, friendly dance school where children thrive, have fun and reach their maximum potential. Classes are deliberately kept small (some have a waiting list) to ensure plenty of individual attention. Ballet, modern and contemporary exams can be taken with the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA) and we perform a bi-annual show in a professional theatre. The IDTA is a world renowned organisation and their exams are Ofqual recognised. Participation in exams and shows are optional.
With the exception of contemporary, I teach all of the timetabled classes myself. This ensures consistency in delivery of classwork and enables me to really understand the need of each pupil. It also allows me to build a good rapport with with the children resulting in constructive technical classes, balanced with lots & lots of good fun. Contemporary classes are taught by a fully qualified, highly experienced teacher.
I danced at my local dancing school from the age of 4, and then at the age of 16 moved to London to commence three years of full time training. I spent over 10 years as a principal dancer with a professional company whilst also working in TV, film, modelling and commercial events. I am a fully qualified dance teacher, fitness instructor and 'Progressing Ballet Technique' teacher. I am also a theatre dance adjudicator, syllabus writer (for the UKA dance association) and was Deputy Chief Examiner for the UKA before I chose to dedicate all my time to our dance school. I am also a mum to two grown up daughters (in all the page header photos) who are both professional dancers. Being a mum, coupled with over 25 years of teaching experience, really helps me engage with the children.
Skills learnt in dance classes literally stay with you all your life. Classes build confidence, discipline, organisational skills and good posture to name but a few traits. Strong friendships are forged through the camaraderie developed through team work and the joint passion of a hobby. The importance of choosing a good dance school with qualified teachers cannot be over emphasised. Dance technique needs to be delivered safely to avoid injury and if a child decides they would like to pursue a dance career, they need to have been receiving excellent training from a young age.
Please do get in touch if you have any questions and thank you for your interest in our dance school.
Rachel.