Meet Your Teachers

✦ The Team

Industry-trained, syllabus-qualified, and chosen as much for warmth as for credentials.

Miss Rachel

Principal · Ballet, Tap & Modern

Specialties

BalletTapModernBarrePreschoolChoreography

Credentials

RAD RTS · ISTD Tap & Modern · Barre Concept · Preschool Pro · Diploma in Musical Theatre (Bodyworks)

Why NOVA

“Hello, I'm the Principal of Nova Dance Co. My journey began at Hollywood Academy of Dance and Big Little Theatre School, before earning a scholarship to Cambridge Performing Arts (Bodyworks), where I achieved my diploma in Musical Theatre and won Most Outstanding Musical Theatre Student of the 2011 graduating class. I then performed professionally as a dancer with Princess Cruises for five incredible years, travelling the world doing what I love most. I'm a fully qualified RAD RTS teacher with ISTD qualifications in Tap and Modern, plus Barre Concept and Preschool Pro training — supporting dancers from their very first steps through to advanced. After ten years freelancing across the local area in some of the most prestigious schools, I founded Nova to be everything I believe dance should be: inspiring, high-quality, and a place where every student feels seen, supported, and challenged to grow.”

Miss Leigh

Head of Contemporary & PBT

Specialties

ContemporaryPBTRambert Grades

Credentials

PGCE · Rambert Grades Trained · Registered PBT Instructor · 20+ Years Experience

Why NOVA

“Leigh Rocha is a freelance dance teacher based in Poole, Dorset, bringing over 20 years of experience in both schools and the performing arts world. With a PGCE, Rambert Grades training, and as a registered PBT instructor, she loves creating classes that are engaging, supportive, and inspiring for all students. Alongside her teaching, Leigh has worked on creative projects such as Dance the Words with The Place in London, where she was a lead practitioner helping bring the KS2 curriculum to life through movement, even taking students to perform at the Islington Dance Festival at Sadler's Wells. She's really looking forward to sharing her energy, experience, and love of dance with students at Nova Dance Co.”

Miss Steffi

Head of Commercial & Conditioning

Specialties

CommercialConditioningQualified PT

Credentials

Performers College Trained · 10+ Years Dance & Fitness · DBS Enhanced

Why NOVA

“We are delighted to welcome our new Head of Commercial & Conditioning to Nova Dance Co. Professionally trained at Performers College, she brings a wealth of experience from both the dance and fitness industries, with over 10 years spent helping others build confidence, strength, and performance skills. As a proud mum to two girls who share the same passion for dance, her love for inspiring young performers naturally led her into teaching. Her energy, knowledge, and dedication make her a fantastic addition to the Nova team. Students can look forward to exciting commercial choreography, dynamic conditioning classes, and a positive environment that encourages both growth and confidence.”

Miss Chloe

Acro & Gymnastics Coach

Specialties

AcroGymnasticsConditioning

Credentials

Level 2 Women's Artistic Gymnastics · 10+ Years Coaching Experience

Why NOVA

“I have been coaching gymnastics for over 10 years and am a qualified gymnastics coach with a Level 2 certification in Women's Artistic Gymnastics. Throughout my coaching career, I have developed a strong passion for teaching and helping children of all levels and abilities grow in confidence, develop their skills, and reach their full potential in a positive and supportive environment. I love creating fun, engaging classes where every child feels encouraged to challenge themselves and celebrate their progress. Watching children build strength, confidence, and a love for movement is the most rewarding part of what I do. Outside of coaching, I love spending time with my family and friends, staying active, competing and training in CrossFit, and continuing to grow my knowledge and understanding to better support and develop the students I work with.”