Back to Dance in September – Meet the Teachers

September is here, and we’re so excited to welcome our students – old and new – back into the studio. After a summer of rest, fun, and sunshine, it’s time to get ready for another year of dancing, learning, and growing together.

We know that for many students, September also means starting new classes or meeting new teachers. To help ease those first-day nerves, here’s a little introduction to our wonderful teaching team. Each one brings their own experience, passion, and personality to the studio, but together we all share the same goal – to inspire and support every dancer who walks through our doors.

Principal: Miss Sarah-Louise Ashworth

Fellow and Examiner of the IDTA, AISTD, RAD Registered, Acro Arts & PBT Certified

Miss Sarah-Louise began dancing at just three years old and went on to train at Laine Theatre Arts, performing professionally in theatre, television, and on world-famous cruise ships. Her career highlights include performing on the QE2, taking part in the Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat UK tour, and even performing for the Queen Mother’s 100th birthday celebrations.

Now, as an examiner with the IDTA and principal of SLA Dance, she combines her wealth of professional experience with a true passion for teaching. She loves helping dancers of all ages and abilities grow in confidence, skill, and creativity.

Dance Teacher: Miss Rebecca Neacsu

Acro Arts Certified

Miss Rebecca trained at Northern Ballet School, where she graduated as Head Girl, before spending nearly a decade performing and working as a Dance Captain on cruise ships. She’s a certified teacher of Acro Arts and Alixa Flexibility, and she brings her extensive performance and teaching experience to every class. She’s thrilled to be back in Yorkshire, inspiring the next generation of dancers.

Dance Teacher: Miss Ashton Armstrong

ARAD, Acro Arts & ID Dance Certified

Miss Ashton trained with Kirkham Henry Performing Arts and gained a full scholarship to Bird College in London. She went on to perform with Disneyland Paris and Disney Cruise Line in the Bahamas, combining her love of dance with travel. Teaching has always been a passion for Ashton, and she brings both energy and care to her classes.

Dance Teacher: Miss Leah Nichols

IDTA Level 4 Ballet Teaching Certificate, Acro Arts Certified

Miss Leah has been part of SLA Dance from a young age, taking part in showcases, pantomimes, and festivals, before continuing her studies in dance and musical theatre at York College. She has achieved outstanding results in her IDTA exams and teaching qualifications, and now brings her enthusiasm and dedication into her own classes.

Cover Dance Teacher: Miss Sophie Roger

ARAD, LRAD, RAD Registered Teacher

Miss Sophie trained at the Royal Academy of Dance, where she graduated with a BA (Hons) in Ballet Education. She has performed in exciting projects, from BBC broadcasts to dancing alongside Darcey Bussell at the Queen’s 90th Birthday celebration. Sophie has taught across London and Yorkshire, and while she is now embarking on a new career path, we’re delighted that she will still be part of SLA Dance as a cover teacher.

Singing Teacher: Mr Andrew Moxon

Mr Moxon began his musical journey as a chorister at Westminster Abbey, performing at high-profile events including royal weddings. He went on to study music at Nottingham University, gaining both a BA and MA before moving into teaching. Now Head of Performing Arts at Ryedale School, he has directed countless musicals and choirs, and we’re thrilled to have his expertise guiding our singers at SLA Dance.

Looking Ahead

We couldn’t be prouder of the teaching team we have here at SLA Dance. Between them, they bring world-class training, years of professional performing experience, and most importantly, a genuine love of teaching.

This September, whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or returning for another year, you can feel confident that you’ll be guided, supported, and inspired every step of the way.

Here’s to another brilliant year of dancing together!