Business Details
45 Years
experience
Professional Dance Training in Buckinghamshire
Established in 1981, Orchard Dance Academy has been nurturing dancers in Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire for over four decades. Our academy provides a supportive, home-from-home environment where students aged 3 to 25 develop technical excellence and performance confidence through ISTD syllabus training. With classes in Ballet, Tap, Modern, and Adult Dance, we combine structured examinations with regular stage productions at the Beck Theatre. Our principal Jean Orchard, a former professional dancer with Royal Command performance experience, leads a team of qualified instructors including her daughter Annelise, a Performers College graduate with international stage credits. We maintain an exceptional pass rate in ISTD examinations while fostering lifelong friendships and a deep appreciation for dance.Our biennial professional-standard productions showcase every student's progress, with alumni progressing to vocational dance colleges and professional careers. The academy's holistic approach develops poise, coordination, and musicality while maintaining a strong emphasis on personal growth. With flexible class structures accommodating both recreational and aspiring professional dancers, we ensure each student progresses at their optimal pace. Our commitment to excellence has made us a cornerstone of the local arts community while maintaining strong connections with former students worldwide.
Services
Ballet Classes
Tap Dance
Modern Dance
Adult Tap
Adult Ballet
ISTD Exams
Stage Productions
Dance Uniforms
Beginner Dance
Performance Training
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of ISTD-certified dance instruction
- Our principal has professional performance experience at the London Palladium
- Biennial professional-standard theatre productions at Beck Theatre
- Alumni have progressed to vocational dance colleges and professional careers
- We maintain a 100% pass rate in ISTD examinations
Associations and certifications
- ISTD
What people say
Wonderful teacher
Incredible teaching
Magical unforgettable weekend
High production standards
Lifelong friends
Services
Ballet Classes
Our Ballet programme follows the ISTD syllabus, teaching foundational techniques from Pre-Primary to Grade 6 levels. Students develop posture, grace and technical precision through structured lessons. Classes cater for ages 3 to adult with progression based on individual readiness rather than age alone.
Tap & Modern
Combined Tap and Modern classes teach rhythm, coordination and performance skills using contemporary music. Students learn both percussive Tap techniques and expressive Modern dance movements. This popular combination develops musicality and stage presence for ages 4 and above.
ISTD Examinations
We prepare students for official ISTD examinations in Ballet, Tap and Modern dance. Our high-standard training consistently achieves excellent exam results. Examinations provide measurable progress markers while maintaining focus on technical development and artistic expression.
Stage Productions
Biennial professional theatre productions at Hayes' Beck Theatre showcase student achievements. All pupils participate in these elaborate shows featuring choreographed routines, costumes and professional lighting. These events build confidence and stagecraft experience in a supportive environment.
Adult Dance Classes
We offer Tap and Ballet classes specifically designed for adult learners. These sessions cater to both returning dancers and complete beginners, focusing on fitness benefits, coordination and enjoyment. Classes maintain technical standards while prioritising a fun, social atmosphere.
People
Jean Orchard
Principal
Founder of Orchard Dance Academy in 1981, former professional dancer with London Palladium and Royal Command performance experience. Holds L.I.S.T.D qualification and has trained dancers from age 3 to professional careers.
Annelise Orchard
Teacher
Qualified ISTD teacher and Performers College graduate with distinction in Musical Theatre. Professional performance credits include BRIT Awards, P&O Cruises and UK tours. Specialises in Tap and Modern instruction.
Jessie Messer-Stalbow
Teacher
Began teaching after training at Millennium Performing Arts College. Currently studying ISTD DDE Ballet qualification. Combines dance instruction with assistance dog training charity work and British Sign Language teaching.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ISTD-certified Ballet, Tap and Modern dance classes for children and adults. Our curriculum follows professional standards while maintaining accessibility for all skill levels.
Are examinations compulsory?
ISTD examinations are optional but strongly encouraged. They provide technical benchmarks while helping students develop discipline and performance skills in a structured environment.
How often do you stage performances?
We produce professional-standard stage shows every two years at Hayes' Beck Theatre. These productions involve all students and feature elaborate choreography, costumes and professional lighting.
Can adults join classes?
Yes, we offer dedicated Adult Tap and Adult Ballet classes. These sessions cater to both returning dancers and complete beginners with no prior experience required.
What uniform is required?
Specific uniform items are required for each dance style, available through our online shop. Hair must be styled in ballet buns for girls, with detailed guidance provided.
How are class levels determined?
Progression is based on technical readiness rather than age alone. Our principal assesses each student's development to determine appropriate class placement and advancement.
Reviews (6)
Lucy Peters
Jan 07, 2020
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My daughter started attending Orchard Academy at 3 years old and is now nearly 12. She loves her dance lessons and looks forward to seeing her teachers and friends there. She enjoys her exams!!! and is so proud of her achievements. Dancing has been brilliant for her self confidence and she feels this is somewhere that she can be accepted and belong. The shows every couple of years are amazing. Memories to treasure for her and for us as her parents. I couldn’t recommend this dance school highly enough.
Nicola Pearce
Jan 06, 2020
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My daughter was a late starter to dance. She started dancing to build her confidence. Not only as her confidence grown through the incrediable support and encouragement from Mrs Orchard and Miss Annelise but she has gained dance skills, made friends for life and had experiences we never thought she would. Cant recommend the dance school enough. They really are one BIG happy family whom we all feel very much part of. Can't thank them enough x
Esther Domson
Jan 06, 2020
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Brilliant dance school, fantastic teachers & atmosphere. Our daughter absolutely loves Mrs Orchard’s classes, always looking forward to it and comes home full of smiles every single time. Learnt so much in just a short space of time already. Can’t wait for new term to begin. Highly recommended!
Kelly Locke
Jan 06, 2020
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My daughter has been going for just under 3 years, starting from a complete beginner, and has really progressed well with some brilliant teaching from Jean and Annelise. We both really feel like part of the ODA family and wouldn’t go anywhere else!
Diane Ruck
Jan 06, 2020
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Both my daughters danced at ODA for many years. I recommend this dance school as a definite must. Jean is a fantastic teacher and her daughter Annelise is following in her footsteps. Diane Ruck
Ivana Chiles
Oct 18, 2019
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Professional approach and Mrs. Orchard keeps her dancers well disciplined. They all learn from very early age, that being on time, have their hair done immaculately and full outfit on is a must, otherwise they are not allowed to take a class. My daughter is only 3 years and 3 months and absolutely loves going to her weekly class.
