Fiona Smith

BA (Hons), MA, DipSW

Fiona is the principal of our dance school which she attended herself from 1988 onwards. Fiona has NATD Associate dance teacher qualifications in Tap, Modern and Ballet (gaining Distinctions in all three) and NATD Diplomas in Contemporary, Gymnastic Dance and Musical Theatre. Fiona is an Acrobatic Arts Module Two and Alixa Flexibility Module Two certified teacher. Fiona is also a fully certified Progressing Ballet Technique teacher. Fiona grew up in Cheadle Hulme and trained at local dance schools. Fiona has taught dance in a wide variety of settings including schools, charities and community groups. Fiona has also choreographed for a number of theatrical productions.
Jennifer Bates

BA (Hons)

Jennifer started her dance training at age 5, progressing through NATD examinations and competing in national festivals. After studying dance at GCSE and A level she gained a place at De Montfort University in Leicester receiving a BA Hons in Contemporary Dance 2:1.

After university, Jennifer worked for a year teaching dance and sports in primary schools. Jennifer joined Fiona Watson School Of Dance in September 2015 and completed her Diploma in Contemporary dance in February 2016. Jennifer has since gained her NATD Associate in Ballet and NATD Diplomas in Gymnastic Dance and Early Movers. Jennifer is an Acrobatic Arts module one and Progressing Ballet Technique certified teacher. Jennifer has also received training from MHFA England to be a youth mental health first-aider.
Guest Teachers
We regularly welcome guest teachers to share their specialist knowledge and professional experience.
Volunteer Teaching Assistants
Our Volunteer Teaching Assistants (VTAs) form an invaluable part of our dance school. Our assistants donate their time to aid with the smooth running of our classes. Ranging in age from 10-70 years old, our VTAs take on a level of responsibility relevant to their experience and qualifications. Roles include welcome newcomers and supporting individuals and small groups with tricky steps. Our younger dancers often look up to their VTAs and our teachers are always grateful to have a supportive team member in class.