Vanessa Gardner staff (l to r): Anne (pianist), Elaine (modern), Vanessa (ballet), Amy (administration), Lucie (ballet), Mel (tap)

About the Academy

At the Vanessa Gardner Academy of Dance we specialise in classical ballet, tap and modern dance. We have Recognised School status with the Council for Dance, Education & Training. 

​Established in 1983, we provide a platform in all dance and musicality skills for all of our students whether beginner or more experienced, from the youngest to our adult dancers.

Our goals are to:

• Provide, in a caring environment, artistic training of the highest standard, monitoring room for improvement in a positive atmosphere to improve skills and enjoy the gift of dance and music.
• To improve confidence and self esteem of students in the school.
• Achieve high in the dance genre examinations to achieve goals.
• Offer students key stage roles in dance productions within Vanessa Gardner’s Academy.
• Expand exposure of the students of the Academy by participating in competitions and events.

In the community:
Children are encouraged to 'give something back to the community' by raising funds from their dancing for Marie Curie and Macmillan, for example through the sale of show programmes. In 2017 we will be dancing for the residents of Dormy House and hope to make this a regular event.