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Ethos

We believe in the power of potential. Over the years, through careful nurturing, we have produced young people who go on to achieve excellence, be that in the performing arts industry or in the world of academia.  

 

The school differs from other ballet schools in that it does not follow any exam syllabi, but focuses instead on building technique and musicality. This provides students with the chance to develop as dancers with a real sense of individuality and expression, underpinned by a pure technique. Small classes ensure each student receives intensive training and personal support.

 

Performances are the key to the school's ethos. Two productions a year are performed at a West End theatre including The Nutcracker at Christmas, in partnership with The Du Boisson Dance Foundation. These performances provide the students with a unique opportunity to perform on stage in professional productions alongside guest artists from major companies.

 

The Young Dancers Academy's philosophy is to inspire in its students a love of learning, music and freedom of expression through dance. Skills gained through encouragement and discipline in the ballet and academic classroom can be applied to all aspects of their life beyond.

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Our ethos

"The care and attention placed on student learning in both vocational and academic areas of the curriculum is what sets us apart from other larger schools. Students learn in a happy and caring environment which enables them to thrive as able, thinking young adults."

Kerry Williams, Executive Director

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Faculty

Executive Director: Kerry Williams

Academic Director: Kate Blakeburn (MA) Hons

Head of Dance: Rachael Hunt

Patrons

Leanne Benjamin AM OBE

Dmitri Gruzdev

Julia Conway

William Bracewell

 

Academic

Kate Blakeburn, MA (Hons) English, History

Judi Swinney, PGCE English, Drama

Puja Kalra, PGCE Mathematics, ICT

Katrina Watson, PGCE Science

Emma Hughes PGDip PGCE BMus (Hons)

Georgina McDermott, DTLLS BTEC Performing Arts

Sheerin Mahabir, BA (Hons) PGCE PSHE & Administrator

Julian Wecxsteen BA History, MA French as a foreign language (Hons), PGCE

Katrina Watson Designated Safeguarding Lead

Kate Blakeburn Deputy DSL

Kerry Williams DSL for the associate program

Vocational

Rachael Hunt - Head of Dance

Megan Webster-Shaw ARAD Classical Ballet

Josephine Holling DTTLS (Dance) ARAD Classical Ballet

Georgina McDermott DTTLS Classical Ballet/Commercial 

Kerry Williams -Classical Ballet / Associate Director

Clare Freeman-Sergeant - Classical Ballet / Associate Course

Eva Koniavitou - Classical ballet / Associate Course

Chloe Fisher - Teaching Assistant 

 

Faculty

Facilites

YDA is located in the heart of Shepherd's Bush, London. Spread across two buildings, our studios and classrooms facilitate the renowned teaching YDA prides itself on. Sprung dance floors and plenty of natural light allow for a beautiful environment conducive of artistic excellence.

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Curriculum

Our teaching faculty deliver a unique curriculum, balancing our students focus between academics and vocational dance training.

Governance

A board of trustees oversee key decision-making and school matters such as safeguarding and finance:

Kelly Williams-Richardson (Chair)

Joanna Barret

Victoria Conran

Hannah Bateman

Gavin McCaig (Treasurer)

If you'd like to contact the board independently of the school, please click here.

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