ABOUT Us
Hello and welcome to
Studio J Dance Academy!
At Studio J Dance Academy, every child matters.
With over 20 years of teaching experience, Studio J Dance Academy is proud to be a trusted name in dance education. Our passionate, professionally qualified instructors hold respected industry certifications and are dedicated to nurturing each child’s unique potential. Recognised for our supportive community and proven track record of building confidence and skills, we proudly help young dancers grow, perform, and thrive in a positive, inclusive environment.
Our experienced teachers don’t just teach dance steps; they build confidence, foster friendships, and nurture creativity in a community that feels like family. We balance fun with skill development, giving students opportunities to shine in shows and exams, but always without pressure.
To see if we are the right school for you and your child, why not contact us to arrange a trial class today?
meet the team
Who are we and why should you trust us with your child's dance training?
Read on if you would like to learn more about our teachers and why we are so passionate about what we do!
Where it all began...
Miss Jo
PRINCIPAL
Miss Jo discovered her love of dance at a very young age and has never wanted to do anything else! Trained at the prestigious Phil Winston’s Theatreworks, she went on to travel the world performing in shows, on cruise ships and beyond, turning her passion into a career.
In 2017, Jo opened Studio J with a dream of creating a welcoming, supportive place where every child could discover their love of dance. She is incredibly proud of the community that has grown over the years and loves nothing more than seeing her students grow in confidence, make friendships and absolutely glow with pride as they achieve something they never thought possible.
For Jo, dance is about so much more than learning steps – it's about creating memories, building confidence and helping every dancer find their place.
Q&A with Miss Jo...
Q. How old were you when you started dancing?
A. 3 years old.
Q. What’s your favourite style of dance?
A. Jazz!
Q. What do you enjoy doing when you're not dancing or teaching?
A. Spending time with my two little monkeys, Zach and Xander! They certainly keep me on my toes, but they are my absolute world, and I love making memories with them.
You’ll usually find Miss Jo around most days! She loves a good chat, whether it's about dance, the school or just a good old catch-up about life. So please always come and say hello!
Miss Maddy
Teacher
Miss Maddy has danced since she was 3 years old starting off with musical theatre, ballet and tap but later competed in street dance and hip hop. She has been lucky enough to dance at Disneyland Paris and compete at competitions around the UK. She recently graduated from CAPA college where she studied all styles of dance. Miss Maddy loves teaching and getting to know all of the students individually and seeing all of their personalities shine out. Creating a safe and confident environment where students can have fun and try new things.
Q&A with Miss Maddy...
Q. What is your favourite food?
A. Pasta!
Q. What’s one piece of advice you always give your students?
A. Give everything your best shot and always support your friends.
Q. What do you enjoy doing when you're not dancing or teaching?
A. Spending time with friends and family.
Miss Maddy is with us on Mondays & Tuesday's teaching our Acro and Combo classes.
Miss LEANNA
Teacher
Miss Leanna has been dancing since the age of two. She had a scholarship with the British Ballet Organization at 11 years old. A few years later, was awarded a scholarship with Elmhurst Ballet School. And has completed examinations through the British Ballet Organization and Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). She continued her professional training at Ballet Theatre UK, where she achieved a Diploma in Ballet Performance. Then continued her studies at Addict Dance Academy, completing a BA (Hons) degree in Dance Performance. She has danced professional onboard Royal Caribbean Cruises but has a strong love for teaching dance! "I now enjoy sharing my passion for dance with the next generation, helping children build confidence, creativity, and passion!"
Q&A with Miss Leanna...
Q. How old were you when you started dancing?
A. 2 years old.
Q. What’s one piece of advice you always give your students?
A. Don't compare yourself to anyone else! Your only competitor is you.
Q. What do you enjoy doing when you're not dancing or teaching?
A. I love to cook and bake! And I have recently gotten into crocheting!
Miss Leanna is with us on Mondays, teaching our Elevate & Combo classes. She also runs our Adult Fusion class, if you're interested, grab her for a chat!
Miss Amelia
Teacher
Miss Amelia has been dancing since she was 4 years old studying all styles from ballet to acro! At the age of 6 she began competing in dance competitions. She has studied performing arts at college and holds a Diploma in Performing arts and Production. In 2023 she qualified for the Miss Dance Final of Great Britain In Blackpool! Miss Amelia is excited to pursue her career in dance teaching as she helps and supports our students to be the best they can be.
Q&A with Miss Amelia...
Q. How old were you when you started dancing?
A. 4 years old.
Q. What is your favourite style of dance?
A. Lyrical.
Q. What’s one piece of advice you always give your students?
A. Never compare yourself to others, we are individuals with our own goals to succeed in.
Miss Amelia teaches our Acrobatics classes on Monday nights.
MISS MEREDITH
TEACHER
Miss Meredith found a love for dance at the age of 7 and hasn’t stopped moving since! She went on to study Performing Arts at University. Since then, she’s been entertaining crowds across holiday parks, theme parks and other visitor attractions for many years! In 2023 she began to work as a resident choreographer and assistant casting director for Alton Towers but has now taken her skills out into the world, exploring multiple exciting performing and teaching opportunities! Including teaching at Studio J!
Q&A with Miss Meredith...
Q. How old were you when you started dancing?
A. 7 years old.
Q. How do you spend your time when you’re not dancing or teaching?
A. I like to keep moving so I’ve taken up running and when I do finally sit down, I’m teaching myself to crochet.
Q. What’s one piece of advice you always give your students?
A. Always be yourself. Let your personality shine because that’s what makes you unique!
Miss Meredith teaches our Thursday night classes.
MISS LUCY
TEACHER
Miss Lucy is a passionate and energetic dance instructor dedicated to inspiring young dancers. She brings fresh creativity and enthusiasm to every class, making learning both fun and engaging. With a strong background in, ballet, jazz, tap, acrobatics, theatre craft, MT, freestyle, street and more, she loves helping students build confidence, technique, and a love for movement. Whether teaching beginners or advanced dancers. Miss Lucy fosters a positive and supportive environment where students can grow and express themselves through dance. Miss Lucy has trained at private dance schools and performed in many pantomimes, shows, examinations, and competitions.
Q&A with Miss Lucy...
Q. How old were you when you started dancing?
A. 2 years old.
Q. What is your favourite style of dance?
A. Acro
Q. What’s one piece of advice you always give your students?
A. Never give up, you've got this!
Miss Lucy teaches for us on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
STUDENT HELPERS
Our classes would not run smoothly without our Student Helpers! We know how much our little ones look up to them. They are always there to offer support and help in class.
If your child is interested in becoming a student helper, get in touch with us today!
Our doors are always open to welcome new students. If you are interested in becoming part of the Studio J family please get in touch with us today.
We look forward to getting to know you and your family soon!