A B O U T  U S

The school was set up in 1982 with Louise Sheaves as the sole teacher, and has been growing steadily ever since. In 2007 Louise Sheaves handed the school over to teacher and former pupil Philippa O’Donovan. Approximately 400 pupils now attend weekly lessons, and Philippa O’Donovan is assisted by five other teachers who bring a wealth of qualifications and experience to the school. We also enjoy the benefits of talented pianists in most of our ballet and tap classes and all pre-school dance classes.

Pupils have the opportunity to be entered for examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance and/ or the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing.

School Principal:

Philippa O’Donovan LLB (Hons). , RAD RTS, A.I.S.T.D. (Dip.)

A large scale school show is produced every two years at the Harpenden Public Hall. The school is friendly and inclusive. We view dance as an important part of any pupil’s overall education, but we also have the capability to train the more gifted pupils towards a professional career. Two current pupils are associate pupils of the Royal Ballet School, whilst former pupils have attended full time vocational schools including the Royal Ballet School, English National Ballet School and Tring Arts Educational, or studied dance at university. Of these, one is dancing professionally with international ballet companies, and one has had her choreography performed at the Royal Opera House and has established a dance company – Molly & Bertie Dance Theatre.