Business Details
21 Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance School in Midlothian
Southside School of Dance was established in January 2005 by Louise Squires, an ISTD-certified instructor with a BA (Hons) in Performing Arts. Our mission is to provide children and adults with opportunities to explore dance in a safe, inclusive environment through structured classes across Midlothian. We specialise in delivering comprehensive training across multiple disciplines, including Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, and Commercial Modern, taught by instructors qualified by the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD). Our curriculum incorporates technical development, creative expression, and performance opportunities, with students eligible to participate in ISTD examinations and school productions.We maintain a professional yet nurturing atmosphere, prioritising individual progress while fostering confidence and artistic growth. Our team comprises experienced educators with international performance backgrounds, ensuring high-quality instruction tailored to diverse age groups and skill levels. We actively support community engagement through workshops, events, and competitive dance teams that develop teamwork and stage presence.
Services
Ballet
Tap Dance
Contemporary
Commercial Modern
Acro
Musical Theatre
Competition Teams
Adult Fitness Classes
ISTD Examinations
Performance Workshops
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We employ ISTD-qualified instructors with international performance experience
- We offer structured training across eight dance disciplines for ages 3+
- We provide ISTD examination opportunities and competitive performance teams
- Our teachers hold advanced degrees in dance education and performance
- We maintain a 100% student progression rate in annual examinations
Associations and certifications
- Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing
- Council for Dance Education and Training (CDMT)
Services
Ballet
Our Ballet classes follow the ISTD syllabus, developing poise, technique, and grace through structured training. Students learn traditional choreography while building core strength and musicality. Ideal for ages 3+, with examination pathways available for serious dancers.
Tap Dance
Tap classes focus on precision footwork and musical interpretation using ISTD graded syllabi. Students develop coordination and timing through percussive patterns, with opportunities to perform in recitals and competitions.
Contemporary
Contemporary sessions blend modern and lyrical techniques to foster creative expression. Classes emphasize fluid movement, floor work, and emotional storytelling, suitable for dancers aged 8+ seeking artistic development.
Competition Teams
Our award-winning competition teams offer advanced training in choreography and stagecraft. Members participate in regional competitions, developing teamwork and performance skills under expert coaching.
Acro
Acro combines dance with gymnastic elements, enhancing flexibility and strength. Classes teach controlled balances and tumbling sequences, requiring no prior acrobatic experience for ages 4+.
People
Miss Louise Squires
Principal
Founder of Southside School of Dance with 20+ years teaching experience. Holds ISTD Associate certification and BA (Hons) in Performing Arts. Specialises in injury prevention and acrobatic training.
Miss Grace
Teacher
First-class graduate in Dance for Commercial Performance. ISTD DDE Tap qualified with AcroTrix certification. Specialises in creating inclusive learning environments for children aged 2+.
Miss Sarah
Teacher
BA (Hons) graduate in Dance for Commercial Performance. Former cruise ship performer with 4 years international touring experience. Teaches RAD and ISTD examination classes up to Advanced 1 level.
Miss Rona
Teacher
HND qualified in Professional Stage Dance. Specialises in Tap instruction with training from New York professionals. Teaches children and adults at all ability levels.
Miss Rachael
Teacher
HND graduate with ISTD teaching qualifications in Modern and Tap. Former Disneyland Paris performer with 2 years international touring experience. Focuses on technique development for young dancers.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, Commercial Modern, Acro, Musical Theatre, and Competitive Dance programmes for ages 3+.
Do you accept adult beginners?
Yes, we provide beginner-friendly classes in Ballet, Tap, and Contemporary for adults with no prior experience required.
Are examinations mandatory?
ISTD examinations are optional. Our teachers provide guidance to help students decide if assessments suit their goals.
How do competition teams work?
Our three performance teams require audition. Members receive additional choreography training and participate in regional competitions throughout the year.
What uniform is required?
Uniform details vary by class. Visit our website for specific requirements or contact us for assistance with ordering dancewear.
