Staples Dance Academy in Retford is a long-established school with a warm, encouraging team that has helped self-conscious beginners find their feet. Its five-star rating across nine reviews reflects more than fifteen years of trusted teaching in the town. Standards run high, with training that has prepared former students for dance colleges and even West End and cruise-ship work. It is a genuine teaching school where friendly support sits alongside serious ambition.
Reviewers describe a dedicated, professional team focused on getting the best out of every child. Guest teachers from the wider dance industry add variety, making the academy an inspiring place to learn.
The academy runs dance classes in Retford for a range of ages and abilities, with training pitched to a high standard. Beginners are encouraged from the outset, while more committed dancers can work towards college-level entry. The programme also draws on visiting guest teachers, so it is worth checking the current timetable to see what is on each term.
The team is known for putting nervous newcomers at ease, so being self-conscious need not hold you back. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can move in, and expect early sessions to build the fundamentals.
Retford families value an academy with a long track record and strong industry links, giving dancers a clear path if they wish to take it further.
Awesome place to dance as it has a great team and atmosphere. Dawn, Jo and their team do a great job and are lovely people. I’ve had an awesome time. When I first came i was very self conscious but they made me realise that if you want to do something just go ahead and do it. Lots of the people there are like a second family to me and I can’t thank them enough for just being awesome!— Jackson Price
We have been involved with this dance school for over 15 years and can say nothing wrong against it. The teachers are all friendly and professional. The standard and level of training is to gain entry to dance colleges . Many former students have gone on to the west end, cruse ships, TV and other stage work.— Nicholas Cheyette
My girls and I love this dance school. Dawn, Jo, and their team are dedicated to dance and to getting the best out of the children. As an added bonus, we get a wide variety of guest teachers from dance industry. It's an inspirational place. I wish Dawn had been my teacher!— Mercedes Franey-Gardiner
Both my children danced at staples dance academy fantastic school great teachers excellent exam results and amazing results at dance festivals then getting in to dance colleges to carry on doing what they love to do dance .— Karen Cheyette
Yes. Many styles are danced solo, and partner classes rotate the group so you never need to bring someone along.
Comfortable clothing you can move in and clean, smooth-soled shoes are all you need. Heavily gripped trainers are best avoided for turning styles.
Costs vary by area and format, with group classes generally cheaper than private lessons. Ask the academy for current prices.
It depends on your interests, though ballroom, salsa and line dancing are friendly ways to start. Pick what appeals and build from the basics.
Adults often begin with ballroom, Latin or line dancing because the classes are structured and social. The best choice is the one you will genuinely enjoy.
Gentle dancing can help general fitness for many, but anyone with a heart condition should speak to their GP first and follow medical advice on activity.