ABOUT US
Who We Are
Step by Step Academy of Dance is a BTDA-registered dance school in Bournemouth, dedicated to providing high-quality dance training in a friendly and supportive environment. We welcome students of all ages and abilities, from tiny toddlers taking their first steps to dedicated dancers preparing for exams & competitions.
With a passionate team of expert instructors, we offer a wide range of dance styles, including ballet, tap, modern, acro, street dance, cheer, and musical theatre. Whether students want to build confidence, improve technique, or work towards BTDA dance exams, we help every dancer unlock their full potential.
At Step by Step Academy of Dance, OUR MISSION is simple: to inspire, nurture, and empower dancers of all ages.
Inspire
We create an environment where students feel excited to learn and express themselves through movement.
Nurture
Our supportive instructors focus on developing each student’s confidence, skill, and creativity.
Empower
Through structured classes, performance opportunities, and BTDA exams, we help dancers achieve their goals and reach new heights.
the principals
Claire has been passionate about dance for as long as she can remember. With 42 years of experience, she started her journey at a local dance school, where her love for performing and teaching first took shape. At 16, she successfully auditioned and gained a place at the prestigious Stella Mann College of Performing Arts, but instead of pursuing full-time training, she chose to follow her true calling—teaching.
By the age of 20, Claire had qualified as a dance teacher with the British Theatre Dance Association (BTDA), and since then, she has dedicated her career to inspiring and supporting young dancers. Step by Step Academy of Dance is truly a family-run school, with Claire at the heart of it. Her two daughters also dance, and fellow principal and co-owner Lucy was once one of Claire’s own students—making the school’s journey even more special.
Beyond teaching technique and performance, Claire is passionate about making dance accessible to everyone. She also works with children with special needs, ensuring that every student, no matter their ability, can experience the joy and confidence that dance brings.
With a warm and supportive approach, Claire continues to lead Step by Step Academy of Dance, helping dancers of all ages grow, achieve, and most importantly—enjoy every step of their journey.
Claire McPherson
From the moment she stepped into a dance studio as a young child, Lucy knew that dance would always be a part of her life. She worked hard to develop her skills, completing GCSE and A-Level Dance, as well as a BTEC in Performing Arts at sixth form, all while progressing through her dance examinations.
At just 17, Lucy began teaching while training for her BTDA teaching qualification, assisting Miss Claire in classes and gaining hands-on experience in the studio. In 2019, she officially qualified as a BTDA dance teacher, and in 2020, she further expanded her skills by completing her Acrobatic Arts certification.
Through years of teaching and training, Lucy developed her own unique approach—one that focuses on building confidence, refining technique, and ensuring every student feels supported in their dance journey. Her dedication to her students and passion for the art led her to take the next step in her career by co-founding Step by Step Academy of Dance alongside Claire.
Now a co-owner and principal, Lucy is proud to be part of a school that reflects her values and love for dance. She is committed to helping dancers of all ages and abilities grow, improve, and most importantly, enjoy every step they take.
Lucy Messenger
“Step by Step Academy of Dance is a fantastic place for children to learn and grow. My youngest is in the Tiny Steppers class, and it’s wonderful seeing her light up every week. The staff truly care about each child’s progress, and it shows!” - Emma R.
“The exam process was so well-organized, and She was thrilled to pass with flying colors. Thank you for everything!”
“ALL The teachers AT SBS are incredibly supportive and make every class fun and engaging.”
