Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Trusted Performing Arts School in Didcot
Established in Didcot since 1996, we provide comprehensive performing arts education for students aged three and above. Our curriculum includes ISTD-certified disciplines such as ballet, tap, and modern dance, alongside musical theatre, street, contemporary, and acrobatic training. With a focus on nurturing individual potential, we maintain rigorous child protection and safeguarding standards while offering examination opportunities and professional stage experiences.Our faculty comprises industry professionals with West End, television, and international performance credentials. We prioritise mental well-being through creative expression and social interaction, evidenced by our students' successful transitions to higher education institutions. Our policies align with national safeguarding frameworks, including GDPR compliance and safer recruitment practices.
Services
Ballet Classes
Acro Training
Tap Dance
Musical Theatre
Street Dance
Contemporary Dance
Competition Team
Holiday Workshops
Guest Artist Sessions
Performance Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer ISTD-certified dance instruction across eight genres
- Our faculty includes West End and international performers
- Students gain professional stage experience at London venues
- We maintain comprehensive child protection and safeguarding policies
- Our graduates progress to leading performing arts institutions
Associations and certifications
- ISTD
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ISTD-certified ballet programme develops technical precision and artistic expression. Students progress through graded levels with optional examinations. Classes focus on posture, musicality, and choreographic interpretation, preparing dancers for both recreational and professional pathways.
Acro Training
Acrobatic Arts-certified instruction combines dance and gymnastics elements. Classes enhance flexibility, strength, and balance through progressive skill development. Safety-focused teaching ensures proper technique for floor acrobatics and partner work.
Musical Theatre
Integrated singing, dancing, and acting training prepares students for theatrical roles. Curriculum includes West End repertoire and character development. Classes develop performance confidence and storytelling abilities through ensemble and solo work.
Competition Team
Selected students receive advanced training in choreography and stagecraft. The team competes nationally while maintaining technical excellence. Regular masterclasses with industry professionals enhance performance skills and artistic development.
Holiday Workshops
Themed workshops during school holidays provide immersive training in multiple disciplines. Sessions include guest artist masterclasses and performance preparation. These programmes offer skill development opportunities for both regular students and newcomers.
People
Roberta Knox
Principal
Founder with 25+ years teaching experience, holding ISTD qualifications in four disciplines. Former West End performer with expertise in musical theatre instruction and examination preparation.
Grace Clarke
Principal
Professional performer with television and West End credits. ISTD-qualified instructor specialising in ballet, tap, and acrobatic arts, currently pursuing dance pedagogy degree.
Brandon Lewington
Safeguarding Lead
Designated child protection officer with paediatric first aid certification. Oversees implementation of safeguarding policies and staff training to ensure student well-being.
Ellie Openshaw
Teacher
Acrobatic Arts-certified instructor with DDE teaching qualification. Specialises in acrobatics, ballet, and contemporary dance, bringing professional theatre experience to classroom instruction.
George Watkins
Teacher
West End performer with Masters in Musical Theatre. Provides singing instruction and performance coaching, combining academic expertise with practical industry knowledge.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ISTD-certified instruction in ballet, tap, modern, street, contemporary, acro, musical theatre, and competition training.
Are examinations compulsory?
While we provide examination opportunities, participation remains optional with equal emphasis on skill development and enjoyment.
How do you ensure child safety?
We implement comprehensive safeguarding policies including DBS checks, paediatric first aid provision, and designated child protection officers.
Do students perform professionally?
Yes, our students regularly perform at London venues including the Royal Albert Hall and West End theatres.
What teacher qualifications do you hold?
Our instructors hold ISTD teaching qualifications, Acrobatic Arts certifications, and have professional performance experience in theatre and television.