Bell Street School of Dance

Bell Street School of Dance, located in Shaftesbury, is a friendly and inclusive dance school that celebrates the individuality of each child. Offering classes in Ballet, Jazz, and Tap, the school believes that every child has the opportunity to shine.

Founded in 2016 by Principal and Teacher Eleanor Dillon, dance has been a significant part of her life from a young age. Trained in various dance styles such as Ballet (Cecchetti, RAD, and ISTD Imperial), Tap, Musical Theatre, Contemporary, Jazz, and Modern Theatre, Eleanor's qualifications include Advanced 1 Modern, Intermediate Ballet, Modern Theatre and Tap, and Grade 6 Musical Theatre with high Merits and Distinctions.

Eleanor is a firm believer that dance should be accessible to everyone, and she is currently studying for her Diploma in Dance Education for Modern Theatre, Ballet, and Tap. This qualification allows her to enter students for examinations under her own name in the ISTD organisation. Eleanor continues to expand her own dance training, as she believes that her personal growth directly benefits her students.

As an active member of Shaftesbury Arts Centre, Eleanor often participates in performances alongside her husband. She takes her role as a dance teacher seriously and strives to ensure that every child feels important, challenged, and good about themselves in every lesson. With a keen focus on child protection, Eleanor consistently updates her knowledge and regularly completes courses in this area.

The school also benefits from the expertise of Guest Teacher and Choreographer, Alex Henstridge, who is a trained dancer and a competitive Irish Dancer. Alex has competed in the World Championships and has achieved Distinctions and Merits in her Advanced 2 Tap and Modern exams, as well as a Merit in Advanced 1 Ballet in both Cecchetti and Royal Academy of Dance.

Bell Street School of Dance is supported by a dedicated team, including Receptionist Ros Wetherilt, who has over 18 years of experience working with children. Ros keeps up to date with various courses to enhance her knowledge and understanding, including Safeguarding Awareness, Autism, Young People and Their Mental Health, and many more.

Assistant Teacher Denise Baldwin is the newest addition to the team and has already become an invaluable member. With a wealth of experience working with children, the local community, and organising performances, Denise brings a happy and enthusiastic approach to her role.

The school offers a flexible timetable for classes, with 30-minute, 45-minute, and 1-hour sessions available at affordable prices. Private lessons are also available upon request.

Bell Street School of Dance is proud to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where children of all abilities can learn and grow as dancers. With a focus on individuality, performance opportunities, and exam preparation, the school aims to foster a love of dance in every student. For more information or to enrol, please contact bellstreetschoolofdance@mail. Com or call 07402218332 or 07756032819.