Power Academy of Dance runs its lessons from a church hall in Clapham near Bedford, led by principal Keely, whose enthusiasm comes through clearly in every review. Parents describe a qualified, patient teacher who is genuinely passionate about children discovering a lifelong love of dance. Several families have stayed for the best part of a decade, with children moving from tiny beginners into confident performers. A full five-star rating reflects how much that continuity is valued.
This is a children's dance and ballet school where the personal commitment of the principal is the standout feature. Pupils cover a broad set of styles over time and take part in shows at a large local venue, giving them real stage experience alongside their weekly classes.
For parents comparing dance classes in Bedford and across Bedfordshire, the academy offers ballet alongside tap, modern, jazz and acro, so children can broaden their skills as they grow. The teaching is aimed at building confidence as much as technique, and the shows give pupils something concrete to aim for. Families looking for ballet classes in Bedford or wider dance lessons in Bedford and Bedfordshire will find a school that starts children young and keeps them engaged. Provision for adult dance classes in Bedford varies, so it is worth asking Keely directly about current age groups and styles.
Younger children are eased in gently, so a first class should feel manageable. Dress your child in comfortable dancewear and soft shoes appropriate to the style, and let the teacher know their age and any experience so they join the right group.
Clapham and Oakley sit just north of Bedford, making the school convenient for families in those villages and the town itself.
Wonderful dance school with lessons in Clapham & Oakley. Keely is an excellent dance principal, qualified, patient, encouraging and hugely enthusiastic about children learning the life long joy of dance.
My children both dance with Keely's school, they love her classes in Ballet, tap, modern, jazz and acro. The bi annual show is a brilliant event which allows all the children to perform and they often get an opportunity to perform at other local events and take dance exams too.
Pad runs out of several venues all with parking and all teachers are DBS checked.
I can't recommend them highly en— JC
Wonderful dance school run by a committed and passionate teacher. My daughter's been attending since she was 3 (she's now 12 years' old). Her classes are in tap and modern. She enjoys her Saturday sessions and has taken part in a few of Keely's big shows at the Bedford Corn Exchange over the years as well, which are fantastic productions. The physical and mental wellbeing the classes bring are brilliant. Highly recommended dance school.— Charlotte Kendrick
Brilliant dance school. My daughter has been here since she was 3 (she’s now 12). She dances ballet, jazz, modern, acro and tap and she loves them all! It has been brilliant for her confidence and she has made some great friends.— Kate Vinnicombe
Yes. Adult ballet classes welcome beginners and offer real benefits for posture, strength and flexibility. Progress is gradual, but the discipline is rewarding at any age.
There is no age at which it is too late. Adults can begin at a beginner level whenever they like, working sensibly within their own range of movement.
Yes. Many styles, including ballet and other solo forms, need no partner at all, and partner dances are usually taught so individuals can join in and rotate. You can start on your own.
Comfortable clothing you can move freely in and the right soft shoes for the style are ideal. For ballet, many schools suggest fitted dancewear so the teacher can see alignment.
Fees depend on the school, class length and whether you pay per session or by term. The academy can give you current prices when you enquire.
For children, ballet and simple structured styles build a strong foundation, while adults often start with an easy partner dance. The best choice reflects what the pupil enjoys.