Our Story
Saxtead School Of Dance began with 2 RAD classes taught by Sandra Hartley and her mother Pauline Stephens in 1995.
Three years later the school moved into it's own premises at The Old School in Saxtead. Over the years the dance school grew and ISTD modern and tap were introduced . As well as ballet we have taught jazz, tap, modern, ballroom, yoga, keep-fit and "Tappytots". with lessons held in Saxtead, Hoxne, Eye and Debenham.
In August 2015 a decision was taken to become a dedicated ballet school. Currently we teach ballet in Saxtead and at the Granary Nursery School in Framlingham with 26 classes per week in total.
All our ballet classes follow the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus.
In 2021 Sandra made the very difficult decision to semi-retire. This results in all our graded ballet classes u being moved to our sister school , Angela Rowe School of Dance, contact
After 30 years of teaching Sandra decided in 2025 to fully retire and hand over the school to her former pupil Kanika Carr.
The Royal Academy of Dance
With over 13,000 members' spread across 79 countries, The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is one of the largest and most influential dance education and training organisations in the world.
The Academy's patron is HM Queen Elizabeth II. RAD Membership supports the advancement of dance and includes professional dancers, students, teachers, benefactors and friends.
Established in 1920, to improve standards and re-invigorate dance training initially within the UK, the Academy helps and encourages its teachers to perfect their teaching skills and pass on this knowledge to their students.
Saxtead School Of Dance have classes from Intermediate Foundation to Advanced 2 level.
Saxtead School of Dance original studio at School House Saxtead.