Business Details
Dance Classes in Ipswich for All Ages
Established over 90 years ago, Linda Shipton School Of Dance has been a cornerstone of dance education in Ipswich. Founded by Olive Goodwin, the school has evolved through three locations, including its current base at Copleston High School since 2007. Under the leadership of Principal Laura Gillingham, a former student and deputy assistant to Linda Shipton for 28 years, the school continues to deliver classical dance training in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, and Modern Theatre Dance. Our curriculum follows the rigorous examination system of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, with students consistently achieving outstanding results. We cater to all abilities, from recreational dancers to those pursuing professional careers, with alumni performing globally in prestigious institutions like the Royal Ballet and English National Ballet.Our qualified, CRB-checked instructors prioritise technical excellence while fostering discipline and artistic expression. Live pianist accompaniment in ballet classes and drama workshops enhance the learning experience. We support local amateur groups and maintain a twinning relationship with a dance school in Arras, France. With a legacy of producing award-winning students at national events like the Imperial Ballet Awards, we remain committed to nurturing talent and passion for dance across generations.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Modern Theatre Dance
Adult Amateur Classes
Highlights and features
- We offer 90 years of expertise in classical dance training
- Our qualified instructors follow the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing syllabus
- We prepare students for professional dance careers and examinations
- Live pianist accompaniment enhances ballet class instruction
- We have a proven track record of award-winning performances at national events
Services
Classical Ballet
Our Classical Ballet programme follows the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing syllabus, training students from primary to advanced levels. With live pianist accompaniment in most classes, we focus on technical precision, grace, and artistic expression. Students prepare for examinations and performances, with many progressing to professional careers in prestigious companies worldwide.
Tap Dance
Tap Dance classes develop rhythm, coordination, and musicality for all ages. We teach both recreational and examination pathways, with experienced instructors nurturing technical skill and creative improvisation. Adult amateur classes provide accessible learning opportunities for those returning to dance.
Modern Theatre Dance
Modern Theatre Dance combines jazz and contemporary techniques to develop versatility and expressive movement. Our curriculum includes choreography for stage performances, focusing on fluidity, dynamics, and theatrical presentation. Students train alongside classical disciplines for comprehensive dance education.
Jazz Dance
Jazz Dance classes blend technical training with energetic choreography, building strength, flexibility, and performance skills. We teach stylised movements from musical theatre and commercial dance genres, preparing students for examinations and stage productions.
Adult Amateur Classes
Adult Amateur Classes provide accessible dance opportunities for recreational learners. Focusing on Tap and Ballet, these sessions cater to returning dancers and beginners, maintaining technical standards while prioritising enjoyment and physical wellbeing in a supportive environment.
People
Laura Gillingham
Principal
Laura trained at Laine Theatre Arts before returning to her alma mater in 1984. With 28 years' experience alongside Linda Shipton, she became Principal in 2012, maintaining the school's reputation for excellence.
Sarah Scannell
Dance Instructor
A Suffolk ballet scholar for seven years, Sarah holds an ISTD teaching diploma. With 15 years' experience, she teaches across dance genres and contributes to the school's examination success.
Lucy Abbott
Ballet Instructor
Lucy trained at this school before completing a BA(Hons) in Ballet Education at the Royal Academy of Dance. She brings London teaching experience to her ballet and jazz classes.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We teach Classical Ballet, Tap, Jazz, and Modern Theatre Dance for children and adult amateurs.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we provide free trial classes for tots aged 3+ on Saturday mornings.
Are your instructors qualified?
All teaching staff are fully qualified and CRB checked with extensive industry experience.
Do you follow examination systems?
We follow the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing examination system with excellent results.
How do you support professional dance aspirations?
We prepare students for entry to full-time dance colleges at 16 or 18 years of age.
What facilities do you have?
We use Copleston High School's dance studios with free parking and changing facilities.
