A dance academy set up by a Staffordshire University alumna aims to give back to the community where it’s based.

Connie Gibson, who studied for a PGCE at the University, set up GDance Academy in 2019.

When the pandemic stopped her in-person classes the following year she moved online, offering free Zoom dance sessions to keep people active.

Connie, who has an undergraduate degree in musical theatre, runs dance classes in Cheslyn Hay and Hatherton for pupils aged from three to 22 years.

She said: “We aim to support and encourage all students to reach their full dance potential, while maintaining a safe and fun environment where individuality and unique personality is encouraged.

“We compete competitively and perform in yearly shows to showcase what we have achieved throughout the year.”
The dance school is affiliated with the United Dance Organisation and completes an exam syllabus provided by them. Pupils also learn higher skills such as flips, tricks, flexibility and stunts.

“We want to bring a wow factor to our routines,” says Connie. “We’ve performed for audiences at Lower Drayton Farm’s Halloween event to bring a bit of fun to the community.

“During the lockdown we did free Zoom sessions that anyone could get involved in to keep them active and social.  We had up to 18 people taking part in those at any one time.
“During the school holidays we do boot camps that include fun sports day activities, arts and crafts and team building skills. At GDance Academy we love everyone and our doors are always open.”

Now GDance Academy has entered the Business in the Community category of the Staffordshire University Business Awards.