How to Choose a Dance School for Your Child
Choosing the right dance school for your child is a big decision. You want a place that’s safe, professional, and inspiring, where your child can develop strong skills, build confidence, and enjoy every moment of learning. With so many options available, it can be hard to know what to look for. Here’s a guide for parents—and why Leap Dance Midlands meets all the criteria.
1️⃣ Look for Qualified and Experienced Teachers
The quality of teaching is the most important factor in a child’s dance education. Make sure the teacher is fully qualified with recognised dance certifications and has experience teaching children of all ages and abilities.
At Leap Dance Midlands, our Principal, Elaine Tomlinson, is a Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) teacher, holding the Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies (CBTS). She has over 20 years of experience teaching both children and adults and has extensive expertise supporting children with Special Educational Needs (SEND) and mental health needs. Elaine’s combination of professional dance training and educational experience ensures your child learns from someone who understands both technique and child development.
Our wider team brings even more expertise to the studio. We have an upcoming dance graduate and a professional industry performer with decades of experience in dance performance and theatre, offering students the chance to learn from professionals who know what it takes to perform at the highest levels. 🎭
2️⃣ Ensure the School is Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive 🛡️
Safety should always come first. Teachers should be DBS checked, insured, trained in safeguarding, and first aid certified. They should also understand the unique needs of children, including those with SEND or mental health considerations.
Leap Dance Midlands has created a welcoming, inclusive community where every child feels supported. Safety, respect, and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do, so parents can feel confident leaving their child in our care. 🤝
3️⃣ Offer a Wide Range of Dance Styles 💃
Exposure to multiple dance styles gives children the best foundation for technique, creativity, and performance skills. Look for schools that offer more than one style and have a progressive syllabus to encourage development.
At Leap Dance Midlands, we offer:
- Ballet – Following the RAD syllabus, recognised worldwide for excellence in classical technique.
- Tap, Modern, and Musical Theatre – Using the ISTD syllabus to ensure modern, up-to-date teaching.
- Acrobatic Gymnastics– Taught through Acrobatic Arts, a progressional syllabus designed to train dancers safely and effectively.
These programs are carefully structured so children can progress at their own pace, reduce the risk of injury, and enjoy a variety of dance experiences. ✨
4️⃣ Continuous Professional Development 📚
A great dance school stays up-to-date with teaching methods, child development, and dance trends.
Elaine and her team regularly attend accredited workshops, CPD courses, and professional training, including Rosina Andrews method leaps and turns courses, National Dance Conferences, participating in training and workshops by leading choreographers and teachers and attending dance events including Can You Dance to learn, stay current and develop.
This ensures that every class is current, innovative, and engaging, giving students the best possible dance education. 🩰
5️⃣ Build Confidence in a Positive Community 🌟
The best dance schools are more than just classes—they are communities where children feel inspired, confident, and supported.
At Leap Dance Midlands, we focus on nurturing self-esteem, resilience, and a love of dance. Our inclusive approach means children are encouraged to try new styles, perform, and develop not only technical skills but also personal growth. Adults joining our classes also benefit from a supportive, gentle environment that promotes health, wellbeing, and confidence. 💖
Why Leap Dance Midlands is the Right Choice ✅
When you choose Leap Dance Midlands, you’re choosing:
- A highly qualified Principal with over 20 years of experience and expertise in SEND and mental health.
- A team of skilled professionals, including a degree-qualified dance teacher and a seasoned industry performer.
- A safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all children.
- Access to a broad, high-quality syllabus in ballet, tap, modern, musical theatre, and acrodance.
- Innovative, up-to-date teaching through ongoing professional development.
- A community that builds confidence, creativity, and resilience. 🌈
Book a trial today and see why so many parents in Melbourne, Derbyshire, and surrounding areas trust Leap Dance Midlands to give their children an exceptional start in dance, confidence, and self-expression. ✨
Leap Dance Midlands 