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Choosing a Dance School

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. ✨

Book a trial

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Children’s Dance Classes in Hilton – Join Now!

Join Us at Leap Dance Midlands in Hilton

Are you looking for children’s dance classes in Hilton, Derbyshire? We’re excited to announce that Leap Dance Midlands is now offering a full timetable of Saturday dance classes at our brand new venue in Hilton! Whether your child is new to dance or ready to progress further, we have something for every age and ability.

If you’ve been searching for kids dance classes near me, or want quality dance classes near Hilton, you’ve just found the perfect place.

Book a trial class here for Hilton, Anslow, Tutbury and Melbourne

🕺 Saturday Dance Classes in Hilton – What’s On?

Our Hilton venue offers a variety of professional, fun and friendly dance classes for toddlers through to teens. All classes are taught by Elaine and her experienced, fully trained team of qualified staff and industry professionals, using accredited syllabi to ensure your child receives high-quality, safe, and inspiring dance education.

Here’s what’s on offer every Saturday:

👶 Little Leapers (Ages 1–4)

Our toddler dance and movement class – perfect if you’re looking for a parent and toddler group in Hilton. With music, props, parachutes and playful activities, this is a wonderful way to bond with your little one while supporting their early development.

🌟 Preschool Ballet (Ages 2–4)

A joyful and imaginative introduction to Royal Academy of Dance ballet. Your child joins the class independently and builds confidence, coordination, and musicality in a creative and nurturing environment.

🎀 Primary Dance (Ages 4–6)

An ideal next step for young dancers. This class introduces ballet, tap and modern dance using the RAD and ISTD syllabi, building foundational skills while keeping dance fun and engaging.

🩰 Junior & Intermediate Dance (Ages 6+)

Structured and supportive classes in ballet, tap, and modern dance. We use internationally recognised syllabi (RAD & ISTD) to help students grow in technique, strength, creativity and confidence.

🤸 Acrobatic Dance (Ages 4+)

An exciting and safe introduction to floorwork, balances and tumbling, following the Acrobatic Arts syllabus. Great for building strength, flexibility and resilience.

🎤 Musical Theatre (Ages 4+)

Drama, dance and singing all in one class! Perfect for budding performers, helping build stage presence, voice projection and storytelling skills.

💃 Jazz & Lyrical Dance (Ages 6+)

Jazz Dance (I-PATH syllabus) is upbeat, stylish and packed with energy. Great for performance skills, coordination and rhythm.
Lyrical Dance (I-PATH syllabus) is expressive and emotive – blending ballet and jazz to interpret music through movement. A beautiful way to build artistry, control and confidence.

👣 Why Choose Leap Dance Midlands in Hilton?

Leap Dance Midlands is proud to offer a supportive, inclusive and high-quality dance experience for families across South Derbyshire. Our classes in Hilton, Derbyshire are designed to help children of all ages thrive in a warm and welcoming environment.

Whether you’re based in Hilton, Repton, Etwall, Willington, Hatton, Findern or Stretton, our Saturday classes are easily accessible and conveniently timed for busy families.

🟢 We use leading dance syllabi:

Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) – Ballet
ISTD – Tap & Modern
I-PATH – Jazz, Lyrical & Musical Theatre
Acrobatic Arts – Acro

🟢 All classes taught by professionals who are trained, DBS-checked and passionate about dance
🟢 Inclusive, community-focused, and personal approach
🟢 A range of styles to suit all interests and abilities

🎟️ Book Your Child’s Place – Two-Week Trial Available

If you’re looking to book a dance class in Hilton, we offer a 2-week trial so your child can experience the class with no pressure. It’s the perfect way to try before you commit.

👉 Book your trial here: https://app.classmanager.com/trials/leap-dance-midlands

Book a trial in Hilton here

No uniform is needed for trials – just comfy clothes and a smile!

🔍 So if your looking for :

Dance classes in Hilton Derbyshire
Ballet for kids in Hilton
Toddler dance classes near me
Jazz and lyrical dance in Hilton
Acro dance Willington, Hilton, Etwall
Weekend activities for children Hilton
Ballet, tap, modern classes near Repton and Findern

You have found us!

Book a trial now

We can’t wait to welcome you to our growing Leap Dance family in Hilton. Whether your child is ready to take their first steps into dance or is looking for new styles to explore, we have a class they’ll love.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes and performance opportunities.

💬 Got a question? Just message or email – we’d love to help!

We have a FAQ page for new families who want to learn more about Leap Dance here on our website.

Adult Dance at Leap Dance

Adult Dance & Fitness Classes at Leap Dance Midlands

At Leap Dance Midlands, we believe dance is for everyone, at every stage of life. Whether you’re looking to explore a new hobby, return to dance after a break, or find a fun way to stay active, our adult classes provide a welcoming, supportive, and engaging experience.

🌟 Adult Tap Dance – Step Into Rhythm 🎵

Our Adult Tap Dance classes are designed for:
⭐ Beginners who have always wanted to try tap dancing
⭐ Returning dancers looking to refresh their skills

Classes include fun exercises and rhythmic patterns set to a variety of music, from modern hits to Broadway classics and jazz. Using a mix of ISTD syllabus work and free creative choreography, you’ll enjoy the challenge of tap while reaping the benefits of improved fitness, coordination, balance, and flexibility. Tap dance also strengthens muscles and boosts cardiovascular health – all while having fun!

No experience necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and a love for dance!

🩰 Adult Ballet – Grace, Strength & Technique

For those who have always wanted to try ballet or are looking to return to class, our Adult Ballet sessions offer the perfect opportunity. Our classes follow the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) technique and syllabus, ensuring a structured, professional approach.

⭐ Taught by an RAD-qualified teacher – a globally recognised ballet training method
⭐ Creative choreography and free movement incorporated to make classes expressive and enjoyable
⭐ Silver Swans trained – classes can be adapted for older dancers, making ballet accessible for all

Ballet is an excellent way to improve posture, flexibility, strength, and balance, while also being a mindful and uplifting experience.

🍏 Ballet Be Fit – Ballet-Inspired Fitness 🩰

Ballet Be Fit Midlands offers a range of ballet-based fitness classes, including:
⭐ Energising workouts for strength and cardio
⭐ Relaxation & stretch sessions for mobility and flexibility
⭐ Continuous Barre classes for endurance and muscle tone

Using classical ballet movements combined with fitness techniques, Ballet Be Fit helps improve posture, coordination, and muscle tone in a low-impact, adaptable way. Suitable for all ages and abilities, including those with health considerations.

🌟 Join Us Today!

Our adult dance and fitness classes are a wonderful way to stay active, learn new skills, and connect with a supportive community. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have danced before, we would love to welcome you!

📅 Book your trial class today and experience the joy of dance! More classes are being added all the time so if there’s something your looking for please contact us here.

Enquire now and register interest for adult tap and ballet be fit here:

Let’s Dance at Leap Dance Midlands- Dance is for everyone

Join Us for Our Exciting Let’s Dance Celebration Event on 2nd March!

Leap Dance Midlands is thrilled to invite you to our Let’s Dance Celebration Event on Sunday 2nd March!

This is a wonderful opportunity for families to watch our talented dancers perform, experience the joy of dance, and even take part in exciting taster sessions.

A Celebration of Dance and Community

At Leap Dance Midlands, we are passionate about helping children build confidence, develop technical dance skills, and experience the joy of performing. Our event will showcase the incredible progress our students have made, with performances that highlight their hard work and dedication.

Get Involved – Try a Taster Class!

We are offering free taster sessions for children and adults, so you can experience our friendly and supportive dance environment first-hand.

Children can choose from:
✅ Ballet
✅ Tap
✅ Acrobatics
✅ Street/Modern Dance

And for adults, we have a fantastic selection too:
✅ Adult Ballet
✅ Adult Tap
✅ Ballet Be Fit
✅ Silver Swans Ballet (for ages 55+)
✅ Chair-Based Exercise

Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to reignite your passion for dance, we have something for everyone!

How to Join Us

To take part in a taster session, simply complete our quick registration form.

We also encourage you to spread the word—tell your friends and family about our event and bring them along for a fantastic day of dance!

Leap Dance Midlands is committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming space where everyone can enjoy the benefits of dance. We can’t wait to see you there!

📅 Date: Sunday 2nd March
📍 Location: Willington
📩 Sign up for a taster session here:

For more information, feel free to get in touch with us. See you on the dance floor! 💃✨

Charity Fundraising in 2024 and into 2025 at Leap Dance

Leap Dance Midlands: Spreading Joy through Charity Fundraisers

At Leap Dance Midlands, we believe that dance is not only a way to inspire creativity and confidence in children but also a means to bring communities together and give back to those in need. Over the past year, our dance school has proudly supported several local charities, making a difference to the lives of many in our communities.

May Family Fun Day for Hannah’s Hope

In May we opened our doors and welcomed our families, their friends and the local community to raise funds for Hannah’s Hope. A local respite lodge for children and young people with cancer at Mercia Marina. The children entertained the crowds and we welcomed local businesses to come and join the fun whilst raising money for a good cause.

Supporting Burton HOPE: Halloween Fun with a Purpose

This Halloween, we hosted a spooky-themed party filled with costumes, games, and laughter. As part of the event, we collected donations for Burton HOPE, a local charity dedicated to helping homeless individuals and those in crisis. The generosity of our families was overwhelming, and the event successfully raised awareness and resources for this important cause.

Food Drive Success: Pyjama Party with a Purpose

Our “Bring a Friend and Dress Up in Pyjamas” day turned into a heartwarming act of kindness. Families contributed approximately eight bags of food, which were also donated to Burton HOPE. The children loved the fun-filled classes while learning the value of helping others.

Christmas Cheer for The Young Ones

The festive season brought even more opportunities to give back. Our Christmas Disco was dedicated to supporting The Young Ones, a local charity aiding safeguarded children. In addition to a joyful dance celebration, we collected toys and clothes for children who needed them most. Thank you to all our families who supported these fundraisers, we really appreciate you.

Etwall Preschool Christmas Party

Our outreach extended to younger children as well, with a special Christmas party at Etwall Preschool led by Elaine. The preschool’s generous donation was also passed along to Burton HOPE who were very grateful.

A Culture of Kindness and Support

These initiatives reflect our core values at Leap Dance Midlands: kindness, inclusivity, and a commitment to making our community a better place. Whether through dance or charitable acts, we are proud to instill these values in our students and their families.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to these initiatives, helping us demonstrate the power of collective action. We look forward to continuing our journey of spreading joy, one dance step at a time!

Leap Holiday Club

We are excited to announce our new Leap Holiday Activity Club! We are here to entertain and care for your children during the school holidays and on special occasions.

We are launching fun activity clubs for children in the school holidays in various venues in Derbyshire and Staffordshire.

Created by Leap Dance Midlands the Holiday Club is an exciting and fun club to keep your child entertained in the school holidays. Suitable for children in reception and above.

Our Holiday Clubs include fun and engaging games and sports, craft and creative activities, drama activities and games to keep your child entertained and happy during the holidays.

All staff are fully trained and experienced in working and caring for children with enhanced DBS checks,

You can be reassured we will take care of your child and deliver activities to high standards in a professional and safe environment.

All our staff have have extensive experience looking after children and providing high quality children’s activities.

So we are here to care and entertain your children for you in the school holidays.

We cannot wait to meet you soon!

You can register your interest now here

See our Leap Holiday Club Facebook page here

Find out about Leap Dance here

Halloween charity fundraising at our Leap Dance Classes in Anslow, Melbourne, Tutbury and Willington

🎃👻 Halloween Dance Classes in Anslow, Melbourne, Tutbury and Willington.

Fun and Charity Fundraiser for Burton HOPE at Leap Dance Midlands: Join Our Spooky Classes 🎃👻

🎃 This October the children are invited to join us for a slightly spooky, fun-filled class where they can dress up in their favorite costumes, dance to Halloween-themed songs, and enjoy a range of thrilling activities designed just for them! They are also encouraged to invite their friends for our fun packed Halloween themed classes. Whilst fundraising for Burton HOPE. 🧙‍♀️🧟‍♂️

What’s in Store?
Our Halloween class is packed with engaging activities that will entertain the children and their friends including:

🧙🏻 Witches flying and broomstick games
🎶 Ghostly songs and fun Halloween tunes
🎃 Cauldron recipes with some magical surprises!

It’s all the usual fun you know and love from Leap Dance, but with a spooky twist! 🕸️👻 And, of course, all our Halloween activities are age-appropriate.

More Than Just Fun: Supporting Burton HOPE

We’re also using our Halloween classes as a chance to give back. This year, we are collecting food items for Burton HOPE, a local charity supporting the homeless and those in need. When you come to class, we encourage you to bring along any non-perishable food items you’d like to donate. It’s a wonderful way to share the Halloween spirit while teaching your child the importance of helping others. 💜

Why Join Our Themed Classes?
Our themed classes are not only loads of fun—they’re also packed with opportunities to be creative, use their imaginations, share the joy of dance with their friends whilst learning about charity.

Plus, themed classes like this are a fantastic way for children to engage with their imagination, explore different activities, and make new memories. And of course, dressing up makes it extra special! 👑🧙‍♀️🧛‍♂️

Join Us for a Trial Class!
We love welcoming new families to our friendly and supportive Leap Dance Midlands community. If you’ve been thinking about joining one of our classes, our Halloween-themed session is the perfect opportunity to experience the fun we have in every class. 🎃

How to Book
Simply book a trial class through our website or get in touch for more information. Come for the fun, stay for the friendships, and make memories this Halloween—while supporting a great cause! 🧡

Let’s dance, dress up, and give back to the community this spooky season at Leap Dance Midlands! 🌟

NEW Preschool Acrobatic Gymnastic classes at Leap Dance

Introducing Our New Preschool Acrobatic Gymnastics Class at Leap Dance Midlands

Book a trial here

Is your preschooler full of energy and constantly trying cartwheels and handstands? Our brand-new preschool acrobatics class is designed just for them!

Tailored for children who haven’t started school yet and beginners to acrobatics, this acrobatic gymnastics class is perfect for little ones with an adventurous spirit who love to tumble, balance, and leap.

We follow the trusted Acrobatic Arts syllabus, the world’s most respected acro program, ensuring a structured and safe learning environment. Through fun and creative exercises, your child will develop essential skills including flexibility, balance, and coordination, all while enjoying the playful nature of the class.

Our preschool acro class provides an energetic and engaging way for children to build strength and explore their physical abilities. Plus, it’s a fantastic complement to the other dance styles we offer for preschoolers, including ballet and tap. These classes help children experience a variety of movement styles, nurturing their creativity and love for dance from an early age.

At Leap Dance Midlands, we believe in fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where every child feels encouraged and inspired. Whether your little one dreams of perfecting their cartwheel or exploring the grace of ballet or the rhythm of tap, our preschool dance classes has something to offer. every child.

Join Us for a Trial!

Spaces for our preschool acro class are filling up quickly. If you’re interested in booking a trial or want more information about our classes, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Your child’s journey into the world of acrobatic gymnastics and dance starts here!

Book a trial here

Gymnastic Acrobatic Classes for Children – Anslow Burton on Trent & Willington

Discover the Benefits of Acrobatic Dance: A Gymnastics Alternative for Kids

Find out about our Gymnastics-Inspired Acrobatic Dance at Leap Dance Midlands! We also have a NEW acro class just for preschoolers. So if you are looking for a gymnastics class for preschoolers, join us at Leap Dance!

Are you searching for gymnastic classes near me for kids that offer more than just traditional gymnastics? At Leap Dance Midlands, we are excited about our **Acrobatic Dance Classes**—a dynamic fusion of dance, acrobatics, and gymnastics for active children who love to cartwheel!

Book an acro trial here

What is Acrobatic Dance?

Acrobatic Dance, or Acrodance, combines the movement of dance with the athleticism of acrobatics and gymnastics. This unique style not only complements dance technique but also significantly improves strength, flexibility, and coordination in children.

Benefits of Acrobatic Dance for Children:

– **Develops Flexibility and Strength:** Acrodance challenges young dancers to improve their flexibility and build overall strength, essential for both dance and gymnastics.

– **Enhances Balancing and Limbering Skills:** Through various exercises, children improve their motor skills and coordination, crucial for mastering gymnastics and dance.

– **Incorporates Tumbling and Tricks:** Our classes include exciting tumbling exercises and partner and group tricks, fostering teamwork and trust among the children.

– **Follows a Trusted Syllabus:** We follow the syllabus of **Acrobatic Arts**, renowned for its structured and safe approach to acrobatic dance, ensuring your child receives high-quality teaching.

NEW preschool acro class- register now!

We are excited to start our new preschool acrobatics gymnastics class in Willington (and soon in Tutbury). Is your preschooler full of energy? Do they love to cartwheel and try handstands? Come and join our preschool acro class, we are registering for places now! So if your little one likes to tumble, balance and leap around this is the class for them!

Preschool Acro Gym Class- register here

Book an acro class here

**Why Choose Leap Dance Midlands?**

At Leap Dance Midlands, we pride ourselves on offering safe, supportive, and inclusive classes. Our Acrobatic Dance classes are designed to provide a comprehensive experience that blends the best of dance and gymnastics, making it the perfect choice for children looking to try an active gym class.

– **Qualified Teachers:** All classes are taught by experienced and certified Teachers who are trained in safe practice and focus on supporting all children to achieve their full potential.

– **Community and Fun:** Our classes are not just about learning techniques—they’re about building confidence, making friends, and having fun.

If you’re looking for “gymnastics classes near me for children”, Acrobatic Dance at Leap Dance Midlands is the perfect fit. 🌟Book a trial class today and let your child explore the exciting world of Acrodance. 🌟

Book a trial today!

Family Fun Day Fundraiser for Hannah’s Hope Charity | Leap Dance Midlands

Leap Dance Midlands had an exciting Family Fun Day raising money
for Hannah’s Hope, a local charity in Willington.We invited our dancers and their families as well as the local
community to come and enjoy a fun day out. Everyone was entertained by our
dancers showing all the hard work they have been working in their dance classes
and the displays included ballet, tap, modern and acrobatics. Our Performance Group also danced two of their group pieces and
did a fantastic job performing their musical theatre pieces to the audience. The
children came together from all of our classes in Anslow, Tutbury, Willington
and Melbourne to perform and enjoy a fun day out whilst raising money for a
local charity.The activities included a bouncy castle, hair braids, a retro ice
cream van, stalls, fun games including hook a duck and tin can alley plus
fantastic cakes and refreshments from the Hannah’s Hope charity.The event was to fundraise for Hannah’s Hope- a respite lodge for
children and teenagers with cancer at Mercia Marina that Hannah (from Help for
Hannah is setting up. Such a valuable charity and we were joined by their amazing
fundraising team who brought a raffle, tombola and some amazingly tasty cakes
and drinks too.

To find out more about the charity please go to https://www.facebook.com/helpforhannah Or to donate to the charity please go to https://www.justgiving.com/hannahshope1207733

We all had such a fun day and enjoyed welcoming everyone to
Leap Dance Midlands. It was such a success we look forward to doing it again
next year. If you want to bring a stall do get in touch with us at Leapdancemidlands@gmail.com