WE ENCOURAGE ENJOYMENT IN THE LEARNING OF DANCE IN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT.
Dance School in Maidenhead
Classes
We encourage enjoyment in the learning of dance in a safe environment with a high standard of teaching. Teachers have DBS checks and First Aid Certificates as well as many years of teaching experience. Whether wanting to gain a career in dance and performance or to enjoy the skill of dance as a hobby we can offer classes to suit your needs.
Exams
DDA students are able to take examinations in all subjects with the British Theatre Dance Association. These exams are accredited by the Council of Dance Education and Training and GQual. DDA has a 100% pass rate with students studying preparatory up to vocational examinations in their chosen subjects.
https://www.btda.org.uk/
https://cdmt.org.uk/
Medals
Medal sessions give the student a chance to develop their performance skills and confidence. Whether as a troupe, duet or solo the student gets an opportunity to showcase their performance in front of an examiner and an audience.
Shows
DDA perform regular schools shows and takes part in local events. We feel that this gives the student chances to develop performing skills and demonstrate their dancing skills as well as the excitement of being part of a production.These are always fun and promote the DDA family feel.
DDA has performed at the Theatre Royal in Windsor, Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury, O2 in London and His Majesty’s Theatre in London.
Competitions
We invite students to represent our school at various competitions during the year. These dances are taught in specialised classes and give the student the chance to compete against other dance schools.
Our Students have achieved 1st Places , trophies and bursaries at various dance competitions which we are very proud of.
Our Staff
Principal
Louise Dartnell
M.B.T.D.A and Examiner
Teacher
Francesca Williams
Teacher
Olivia Dartnell
Assistant Teacher
Isabelle Cook
CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS
My daughter Shanaya has absolutely thrived at DDA. From the very beginning, the guidance and encouragement of Miss Louise, along with the wonderful teaching of Miss Francessa and Miss Olivia, have helped her grow not only as a dancer but also in confidence and self-expression. The school provides such a caring and nurturing environment, making it the perfect place for children to learn the art of Ballet, Musical Theatre, Tap, Modern, and Acro.
Shanaya has had so many amazing opportunities to perform in shows both locally and in London, compete at dance competitions, which have been truly unforgettable experiences. I couldn’t be happier with the progress she has made and the joy she gets from being part of the DDA family.
I would highly recommend DDA to anyone who loves performing arts and dance—it’s a place where talent is nurtured, friendships are made, and children can really shine.
My daughter absolutely loves going to dance each week, it’s truly the highlight of her week! From the very beginning, Miss Louise has been so warm, welcoming, and encouraging. She creates such a positive and supportive environment where every child feels seen and valued. It’s been wonderful to watch my daughter’s confidence grow, not just in her dancing, but in herself.
One of the things I love most is how children of all ages come together like one big family. There’s a real sense of community, where the older ones support the younger ones and everyone cheers each other on. It’s such a special place, and I’m so grateful to Miss Louise and the whole team for everything they do.
My daughter has been at DDA since she was 4 and has had the opportunity to try all sorts of different classes, from the traditional ballet and tap to contemporary, commercial and musical theatre. There is the support if you wish to take the styles seriously and enter exams and competitions, but also the freedom to take classes just for fun and perform in shows if you want to.
The teachers promote an inclusive teaching environment and treat all the dancers as individuals and do their absolute best to accommodate all needs. It’s a great dance school and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone wanting to try dance for the first time or join a school where they can pursue dance to a high level. I’ve even started dancing for the first time (in my 40”s) at the weekly fun adult class!