About Us

Vale Dance Academy (VDA) was established in 1987 as The JoAnn Latus School of Dance and has always enjoyed a reputation for first class teaching, along with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

The aim of the school is to provide a safe and enjoyable home for local budding dancers to enjoy, whilst developing an overall love of dance, both creatively and emotionally. Following the ethos of dance in discipline, technique and an extremely high standard of dancing, we positively impact on a child’s physical, social and mental wellbeing whilst supporting them on their dance journey.

Our passionate teaching team conforms to the high standards set by The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and The International Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD). The VDA team invest a lot of time developing their CPD, regularly taking part in workshops and courses.

We pride ourselves in providing a happy, friendly environment that often serves as a lifeline in our children’s ever busy lives. At VDA we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of teaching while nurturing the creativity and individuality of each student. Whether it be for fun or to pursue a future career, VDA offers a well-rounded dance education.

Modern Dance

Modern dance is popular in theatres and musical productions worldwide, ranging from lyrical to jazz styles.

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Tap Dance

Tap Dance is a fun, energetic, percussive style of dance, where dancers wear shoes with taps to create rhythmic patterns

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Jazz Dance

Jazz is a style of modern dance that encourages individuality and originality. It is energetic and fun, featuring quick

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Street Dance

Street Dance is an energetic and dynamic style of dance. Classes are creative, blending original hip-hop moves

04 Our services PLATFORM

We’re proud to offer a variety of services designed to support and inspire dancers at every stage of their journey. Our weekly dance classes cater to all age groups and skill levels, including styles such as Ballet, Tap, and Breakdance. Whether your child is just starting out or looking to grow their skills, we provide a supportive and creative environment where they can thrive.

In addition to regular classes, we give our students exciting performance opportunities throughout the year. From seasonal showcases to our annual recital, dancers can build stage confidence and celebrate their progress with family and friends.

Meet The Principal

Laura Zargar

RAD, ISTD (DDE) – Ballet, Tap, Modern, Contemporary, Jazz, Musical Theatre, PEP

I started dancing here at the age of 3, where I completed all my dance exams and took part in professional pantomimes. After completing dance college and performance opportunities, I returned to the school as a teaching assistant. I quickly found that my passion lies within teaching the next generation, so completed my teaching qualifications with the ISTD & RAD. Having taught at the school for 15 years, I’m thrilled to be taking over the principal reigns, ready to continue offering exceptional dance education and nurturing our students’ passion and talents.

OUR TEAM

Laura Zargar

PRINCIPAL

Emma graduated from The Creative Academy in 2021 with a BA Hons degree in Dance. She gained her professional experience while training and has performed throughout London (including the Royal Albert Hall) where she has worked with many prestigious choreographers. Emma has been involved with the school since the age of 3 and is thrilled to now be teaching where her love for dance first started!

EMMA CRADDOCK

TEACHER

Keira started dancing from the age of 2 and attended her local dance academy until she was 18 where she was taught by Laura. Alongside this Keira also attended City of Oxford College where she completed a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dance. Keira then graduated from MPAA where she trained in Musical Theatre Performance and dance teacher training where she obtained her DDE in ISTD Tap and Modern. Since graduating, Keira has also obtained her Acrotrix Level 1 qualification.

KEIRA GRIMSDALE

TEACHER

Katie began dancing when she was 2 years old and her love for performing grew from there. She loves all styles of dance, but her favourites include lyrical and ballet. In 2020, Katie went on to study Musical Theatre at The Performers College (Brighton) and graduated with a first-class BA (hons) degree. Katie has a real passion for teaching and working with young people. She teaches for many local performing arts schools in the Buckinghamshire/Oxfordshire area, as well as previously working as a Learning Support Assistant for children with additional needs. Alongside teaching Katie also enjoys working at a nursery.

KATIE HAWES

TEACHER