Papillon School of Dance has grown slowly since its beginnings in June 2009 with some of our original pre-primary dancers now senior students at the school.
Papillon’s aim is to nurture a love of dancing and to achieve a sense of fulfilment through learning and creating. Very few children go on to choose dance as a career but that doesn’t stop it enriching their lives in ways that will seep into their everyday activities. It boosts self confidence, helps to build long lasting friendships and aids self motivation and the respect and encouragement of others.
The prime focus at Papillon is for everyone to achieve their individual goals, which is why we offer dancers the opportunity to take either examinations, class awards or solo performance awards. For many, working towards and participating in exams is a rewarding experience and a great way to focus their attention and measure their progress. However, everyone is unique and for some, examinations are not the answer. Dancers are welcome to progress at their own pace and are still encouraged to work to the best of their ability and improve their technique without the pressure of external assessment.
Papillon provides an environment which allows dancers to reach their full potential, aware that this will be different for each individual. Small class sizes enable us to take a personalised approach, supporting each dancer to develop secure technique alongside strong performance skills and a lifelong passion for dancing. They are inspired to discover their own style and artistry with opportunities to choreograph and perform regularly.
Adults are also fully welcomed at Papillon, with dedicated classes catering to dancers of all ages, abilities and experiences. While these classes provide entertainment and exercise, dedicated students can still accomplish the same goals as our younger dancers, whether that be improving their technique, performing, taking exams, going on pointe or simply embracing the joy of movement.
We strongly believe that finances should never be a barrier to dance training, so aim to keep our fees affordable, with discounts available to those taking multiple classes. Fees can be paid termly or by standing order, spreading the cost over 12 monthly payments.
TEACHERS
ZOE DANDO
Dance Teacher
Zoe trained at the Royal Academy of Dance College and graduated in 1990 as a Licentiate of the RAD. She has been teaching ever since and first opened her own school in 1997. Zoe has also taught GCSE and A level dance and been an examiner for the A level written papers.
Outside of teaching, she has worked in the field of dance notation for the Language of Dance Centre, run by the world expert on Labanotation Dr Ann Hutchinson Guest. Royal Academy of Dance Registered Teacher and Enhanced DBS checked.
SALLY HARRIS
Drama Teacher
Sally has taught for more than 30 years as an Assistant Head and Director of the Performing Arts & Media at a Performing Arts and Media College. During this time, she has taught Drama and Dance to GCSE and A level. She has been part of national research projects that include the application of a creative pedagogy throughout the Key Stages, university and teacher training. She has lectured part-time at Northampton University. She is currently an Education and Theatre advisor. Sally has two MAs in Theatre Studies and Creative Writing and a PhD in Heuristic research: a) developing creativity in both drama and writing b) feminist approach to the arts. CRB checked.
GEMMA HAINES
Ballet Teacher
Gemma grew up dancing with local teacher Mollie Mayhew studying the RAD syllabus up to Grade 8. After several years away from ballet where she earned her MMath, worked on the London 2012 Olympics and started a career in social care, she reignited her passion for dance by joining Mes Amies Dance Company with whom she still performs regularly. Gemma is currently enrolled in her second year on the Royal Academy of Dance’s Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies course, training to become a qualified ballet teacher. She runs a youtube channel which encourages everyone to dance regardless of age or ability. Enhanced DBS checked.