The Thompson Schools of Ballet is a mother and daughter collaboration.
Thelma Thompson established the school in 1966 and has been teaching generations of students in the Great Ayton area for 50 years.
Her youngest daughter Katrina inherited her joy of dance and trained to become a dance teacher at the prestigious College of the Royal Academy of Dance in London.
They are both registered teachers of The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), which is one of the world most influential dance education and training organisations.
Whilst both teachers trained in other dance genres they both are passionate about classical ballet and concentrate on developing good ballet technique and artistry within their school.
Thelma and Katrina personally teach their students from ages 3 years to adults and have piano accompaniment for the majority of their classes.
Classes are held in Great Ayton, Guisborough and Stokesley, choosing to take our classes to communities rather than expecting parents to travel to a fixed studio.
The venues have pianos, changing areas, large dancing space and ample parking for parents.
The School regularly enters children for RAD Examinations with a 100% pass rate.
Both teachers are committed and required, as RAD Teachers, to undertake ongoing professional development courses and are fully insured and CRB approved.
In recent years they have given students the chance to be involved in large productions at Princess Alexandra Auditorium in Yarm, a multi million pound theatre development, and have used this opportunity to raise funds for local charities.
They are both dedicated to having a nurturing and caring attitude towards the students and in running and experienced and professional school.