I am so thankful for the valuable lessons I have learnt and the opportunities the school has given me.
— Beth Atkinson, Victoria Stansfield School of Dance Alumnus

BETH ATKINSON

"I started dancing with Mrs Stansfield and Miss Adelle when I was 3 years old. The dance school was a second home for the 15 years, I didn't go on to dance professionally, but I gained many different skills during my time there. I learnt about the commitment and discipline needed for improvement and the dedication that dancing requires, especially when you are working as part of a team. The friends that I made at Mrs Stansfield's have become friends for life, and we share so many great memories; dancing at festivals, performing in pantomimes and sunny afternoons leaping in the garden! My experience at the school encouraged me to become Vice President of the Dance Society whilst studying at the University of Hull. We competed nationally against other Universities, and even took part in competitions abroad. Thank you to Mrs Stansfield and Miss Adelle, for everything you have taught me!"

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LUCY ATKINSON

"I danced for Mrs Stansfield for fifteen years. While moving from primary to high school, and being placed in and out of sports teams there, the dance school was the one constant in providing a loving and caring atmosphere. Dancing came with its own motivations- taking my Intermediate ballet exam was a personal achievement that I worked towards despite a growing school workload, the biannual pantomime meant greater dedication and, eventually, the feeling of hard work paying off. Attending dance lessons every week gave me time to myself, away from the stresses of A Levels and University applications. A place where I could meet people outside of school and create memories that I now cherish during university. Dancing has provided me with a strong work ethic and discipline. I gained so much confidence since gathering the courage to step onstage for my first duet. Thank you Mrs Stansfield and Miss Adelle, for absolutely everything!"

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Kathryn Rose Hargreaves

"I started to dance with Mrs Stansfield at the age of 5, and it was the beginning of the most wonderful life experience. Dance very quickly became my second family, where I met the best of friends who shared the same passion. 

Such valuable lessons are learnt in dance classes, determination, discipline, hard work, patience, friendship and happiness. 

My dance journey was amazing. 10 nominations to the International Theatre Dance Awards and winning the Theatrecraft Grades in 2011. Miss Dance of Great Britain Finalist, 3 years running. Demonstrator for the IDTA Theatrecraft Syllabus, and DVD.

I attended professional dance college and then continued my IDTA Dance Teaching qualifications with Mrs Stansfield. Mrs Stansfield is an inspirational teacher which I try to recreate in my school career. 

Dance allowed me to grow as a person and in confidence. I would not be the person I am today without Mrs Stansfield and Miss Adelle. They really did believe in me, encouraged me, and mean the world to me."