Children's dance schools live or die on the teacher, and at CJ's Dance in Bude that teacher is Charlotte, whom parents describe as going above and beyond. Based at premises on The Strand, the school covers a range of styles for young dancers and puts on shows and events through the year. Families praise the confidence it has given their children as much as the dance skills. Several reviewers speak of the school as a warm, close-knit community.
This is a school for children and young people, led by a teacher parents call gentle, dedicated and inspiring. Alongside weekly practices, the school runs performances and events, which reviewers mention as highlights even when the weather does not cooperate. The tone is supportive and community-minded rather than competitive.
Various dance styles are taught, giving children the chance to try more than one form as they grow. Weekly classes are complemented by shows and events, which give young dancers a goal to work towards and a taste of performing. The focus throughout is on building confidence and enjoyment, with a teacher reviewers credit for bringing shy children out of their shells.
For a child's first class, dress them in comfortable clothing they can move in and check with the school about the right footwear for the style. It is worth asking which class fits your child's age and experience. A welcoming teacher and a familiar group of children make settling in far easier.
Bude and the north Cornwall coast have a handful of dance schools serving local families. For children, a school with a friendly teacher and regular performances offers both skills and a sense of belonging.
Charlotte is amazing, the effort she put in with the kids is above and beyond. My kids love all aspects of the dance school from shows to events (even the wet ones) and the weekly practices. Thank you Charlotte here's to many more years.— YVETTE Gliddon
CJ'S has been teaching my daughter various styles of dance for 2 years and I couldn't ask for a more gentle or dedicated teaching crew! My daughter loves dancing with CJ'S!!— Amy Clarke
Charlotte is an amazing dance teacher,she is such an inspiration to my daughter and given her so much confidence. Cannot praise the dance school enough.— Ang Souch
Awesome xx— Tom Arscott
Yes. Most styles taught in a children's school are danced solo or in a group, so no partner is needed. This is the norm for young dancers.
Comfortable clothing your child can move freely in, plus the correct shoes for the style being taught. The school can tell you exactly what is needed before the first class.
Fees vary between schools and depend on class length and whether you pay by term. Ask the school directly for its current rates.
For children, styles like ballet, tap and jazz are popular, accessible starting points. The best one is often whichever your child is most keen to try.
Adults tend to enjoy sociable styles such as ballroom, salsa or tap, all taught from scratch in beginner classes. Pick one that appeals and it will be easier to keep going.
Gentle dancing can be part of a healthy lifestyle, but anyone with heart failure should consult their doctor first. Medical guidance should shape how active you are.