Business Details
44 Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance School in Preston Since 1982
Carol May has been nurturing dance talent since 1982, evolving into Preston's most prestigious dance institution. Our dedicated team of highly qualified instructors provides tailored training for all ages and abilities, from hobbyists to aspiring professionals. We offer comprehensive dance education across multiple disciplines, preparing students for RAD ballet and ISTD modern/tap examinations. With a 100% pass rate in exams and a strong focus on performance opportunities, we foster confidence and technical excellence.Our inclusive environment encourages participation in local and national competitions, with alumni progressing to top dance colleges and professional careers worldwide. The academy maintains close family relationships with students and parents, hosting regular events and theatre trips to enhance the learning experience.
Services
Ballet
Commercial
Contemporary
Tap
Modern
Lyrical
Street
Acro
Pointework
Dance GCSE
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of dance education expertise in Preston
- 100% exam pass rate with RAD and ISTD qualifications
- Professional instructors with industry performance experience
- Inclusive environment for all skill levels and ages
- Performance opportunities at international venues
Associations and certifications
- Royal Academy of Dance
- ISTD
What people say
Amazing teachers
Confidence growth
Performance opportunities
Family atmosphere
Professional instruction
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet programme follows Royal Academy of Dance syllabi, developing technical precision and grace from pre-school to advanced levels. Students gain performance experience through annual productions and international showcases. The structured curriculum builds strength, flexibility and artistic expression.
Contemporary Dance
Contemporary classes focus on creative movement and emotional expression through fluid, interpretive choreography. Instructors emphasize body awareness and improvisation techniques while preparing students for ISTD assessments and competition routines.
Tap Dance
Tap instruction combines musicality with footwork precision across multiple styles from Broadway to street tap. Students develop timing and coordination through graded exercises and performance pieces suitable for examinations and stage shows.
Dance GCSE
This specialist programme supports secondary school students studying dance at GCSE level. The curriculum covers technical skills, choreography and performance analysis aligned with national curriculum requirements and examination board specifications.
Holiday Workshops
Seasonal workshops provide immersive dance experiences with masterclasses in multiple genres. Participants receive technical coaching, choreography sessions and performance preparation in a supportive environment for all ability levels.
People
Carol May
Founder & Principal
With over 40 years' experience in dance education, Carol established the academy in 1982. She has trained multiple award-winning performers and maintains strong industry connections to support student career progression.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach 12 dance styles including ballet, contemporary, tap, commercial, lyrical, street and acro. All programmes follow structured curricula with examination options.
Do you accept adult learners?
Yes, our classes cater to all ages from preschool to adult recreational dancers. Many students continue training through university and professional careers.
Are examinations mandatory?
Exams are optional but encouraged. We prepare students for Royal Academy of Dance and ISTD assessments while focusing on personal progress and enjoyment.
What performance opportunities exist?
Students perform at venues like The Royal Albert Hall and Disneyland Paris. We organise annual productions, local festivals and competition circuits throughout the year.
How do you support student development?
Our small class sizes ensure individual attention. We provide career guidance, technical coaching and regular progress feedback through termly watching weeks.
