ABOUT US
At Afonso School of Performing Arts, we believe dance and performing arts builds more than just skills - it builds confidence, creativity, joy, and lifelong friendships. From those very first wobbly steps to shining on stage in full costume, every child’s journey is celebrated. We focus on creating a positive, supportive space where kids of all ages can express themselves freely, grow at their own pace, and most importantly - have fun. Through movement, music, and connection, we help kids thrive both in and out of the studio.
where it all began
In 2014, our principal Alicia had a big decision to make. Now a Mum of two and unable to continue her performing career in the West End, she wanted to find a way to teach and pass on her knowledge and love of dance to the next generation.
This is when the Afonso School was created, with a vision to create a warm and friendly environment for children to explore their talents in a nurturing environment. A place to build confidence, keep fit and make friends for life.
our journey
From humble beginnings with husband and wife team, Alicia and Ricardo, renting the local nursery space with just over 30 students, the school quickly grew in size. In no time at all, they hired the fabulous Miss Kate who is still with them today, and the school grew from strength to strength.
Further expansion and a move to fully fitted studios, the school now runs almost 50 classes per week to children aged 2-18yrs.
With regular examination session throughout the year, performance opportunities big and small, and success in competitions, the school is flourishing but above all, has met all of Miss Alicia's dreams of a fun, kind, nurturing environment, perfect for every child to grow.
Our Values
Dance Together - Grow Together
At Afonso School of PA, our values shape every class we teach, every dancer we cheer on, and every memory we help create. We’re more than just a dance studio — we’re a place where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow.
🌟 Joyful Learning
We believe dance and performing arts should be fun! Our classes are filled with music, movement, and imagination, creating an environment where children fall in love with learning through play and creativity. And guess what... exams can be fun too!
💕 Kindness & Community
We foster a culture of respect, encouragement, and friendship — where every child feels like they belong and can be themselves. Older students are role models, and younger ones are cheered on. We’re all in this together.
✨ inspire
Whether it’s trying a new step or performing on stage, we support our students to be brave, believe in themselves, and celebrate their progress — no matter how big or small.
😃 Be yourself
We encourage our students to be themselves, meet goals at their own pace, and use their individuality to explore their own unique talents.
With this freedom to explore, there are no limits to what they can achieve.
💫 EXCELLENCE
The teaching excellence of the faculty is reflected in our examination results with a 100% pass rate, and the personal growth of each individual student. The large majority of our middle and upper school have been with us since they were babies, many since day one back in 2014. Learning skills for life whilst making true, lifelong friendships.
meet the team!
Read about the teachers and leaders below, or click the link for full bios.
Alicia Afonso - principal & Director
Multi award-winning teacher with over 20 years teaching experience and a love for all things dance.
As Principal, Alicia enjoys developing the school from afar, giving her a unique outlook on the long-term goals for her students. Her weekly tasks can involve anything from planning events, content creation, training, research, music/video editing, finances and more.
Alicia is an IDTA Fellow & examiner, and loves to visit the school when she can to assess the student and staff's progress, teach workshops, and more.
ricardo Afonso - creative director
As a well-known performer, and with his wealth of knowledge in the industry, Ricardo has a huge input on the creative direction of the school. As well as being a big inspiration to our students.
As co-founder, Ricardo began teaching musical theatre beside his wife, Alicia, but now takes on the role of Creative Director, ensuring the quality of the Afonso shows and examinations remain high.
Ricardo is an International and West End star, who spends his time traveling the world, regularly appearing in musicals and concerts.
kate garvie - vice-principal
With over 30 years teaching experience, and with industry credits on cruise ships and shows such as Cats and West Side Story, Kate is a highly versatile teacher. She brings a deep knowledge and understanding of her craft, with a caring, joyful approach to her teaching.
As Vice-Principal, she works closely with the Principal in terms of decision making and creative input, ensuring the well-being of the students is top priority.
harmony wilson - teacher
A dance mum herself, she knows what families need most and brings warmth and energy to every corner of the studio.
If your child takes a class with Harmony, relax in the knowledge that it will be fast paced, enjoyable, but hard work is expected!
Harmony is qualified with the IDTA and BATD.
abigail colclough - teacher
An ex-professional ballet dancer and now mum of 4 boys, Abi brings a calm, nurturing approach to her classes.
With a true love of ballet which feeds into the other genres. Abi is a much-loved teacher holding qualifications with both the RAD and IDTA, and has a love for choreography.
Sophie grantham - lyrical & commercial teacher
Having trained at DanceBox Studios & Theatreworks, Sophie brings a fresh, vibrant approach to our Thursday classes. Specialising in commercial and lyrical styles, her classes explore choreography and contain conditioning elements.
"I cannot thank or recommend this school enough"
– Lucie, Parent of Lillie & Mollie
"The Afonso team have massively increased my girls' inner strength and confidence and helped them to walk with their heads held high. I cannot thank or recommend this school enough."
Faq's
Can my child try a class before enrolling?
Absolutely! We offer trial classes so your child can come along, have some fun and see if the class feels right for them. It’s a great way for them to meet the teacher, make new friends and get a feel for what we do before joining us for the term.
We welcome children to the main school from around 3 to 18 years at Afonso School of Performing Arts in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire. Just book online or WhatsApp 07590348812. Children aged 2-4yrs can also join our Parent & Toddler drop-in classes.
What should my child wear for their trial?
For their trial class, your child can simply wear something comfortable that allows them to move freely - there’s no need to buy a special uniform beforehand. Any clothing and bare feet or suitable footwear are perfect. As they settle in, we can let you know what uniform or clothing is recommended for their chosen class. We want your child to feel comfortable and confident from their very first class with us at The Vyne Theatre & Studios in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire.
My child is almost 2, when can they start?
Your child can start from around 2 years old in our Parent & Toddler classes. These classes are designed especially for our youngest dancers, aged 2–4 years, and a parent or carer stays with them throughout the class.
It’s a relaxed and fun introduction to dance, music and movement, helping little ones build confidence while enjoying time together.
Where are your classes based?
The majority of our classes take place at The Vyne Theatre & Studios in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire. We welcome children and young people aged 3-18 from Berkhamsted and the surrounding areas. We offer ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, commercial, acrobatics, musical theatre, acting and singing, with classes for different ages and experience levels.
Our Parent & Toddler classes for aged 2-4 is based at All Saints Church in Berkhamsted.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes, we offer payment by Direct Debit instalments, allowing you to spread the cost of your child’s classes throughout the term.
We know that makes things easier for busy families, and we want joining us to be as straightforward as possible. Instalment payments are available for our classes for children and young people aged 3-18.
What classes are available for my child?
Depending on their age, we offer ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, commercial, acrobatics, musical theatre, acting and singing for children and young people aged 2-18.
Not sure where to start? Just let us know your child’s age and what they’re interested in, and we’ll help you find the classes we think they’ll enjoy. We welcome complete beginners as well as children who already have experience.
Do you hold performances or showcases?
Yes! We love giving our students the opportunity to perform and share what they’ve been working on. Our main school show takes place in a professional theatre in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, every two years, giving students the chance to experience the excitement of performing on a real stage. In between our main shows, we also hold class presentations and open Musical Theatre examinations, so there are plenty of opportunities for children and young people aged 3-18 to build confidence and enjoy performing.
How much are the classes?
Prices vary depending on the type and length of the class. We keep our fees as straightforward as possible and are happy to help you find the right option for your child. For current prices and availability, please get in touch with us by email or WhatsApp on 07590 348812, and we’ll be happy to help.
Is there a set uniform?
Yes, we have a set uniform for all of our classes. There’s no need to purchase anything before your child’s trial, so they can simply wear something comfortable and suitable for movement. Once their trial period is complete and you decide to join us, we’ll provide you with all the information you need about the uniform for their chosen class.
Are exams and shows compulsory?
No, exams and shows are completely optional, although they are a huge and very special part of the Afonso experience. For many of our students, they are the highlight of the year - the excitement of performing, working towards a goal and celebrating everything they’ve achieved together.
Very few students choose not to take part, but we completely understand that performing or taking exams isn’t for everyone. Students who choose not to participate are still given equal opportunities in class and are fully included during rehearsals and exam preparation.
Last updated: August 2026
our location
All main school classes:
Vyne Theatre & Studios
Northbridge Road
Berkhamsted
HP4 1EH
(Limited onsite and street parking available)
Parent & Toddler classes only:
All Saints Church
Shrublands Road
Berkhamsted
Based at Vyne Theatre & Studios in Berkhamsted, Afonso School of Performing Arts welcomes families from across Hertfordshire including Tring, Hemel Hempstead, Boxmoor, Bovingdon and Kings Langley. Just 5 minutes from Berkhamsted station and easily accessible from the A41, we're the local choice for quality dance education
Based at Vyne Theatre & Studios in Berkhamsted, Afonso School of Performing Arts welcomes families from across Hertfordshire including Tring, Hemel Hempstead, Boxmoor, Bovingdon and Kings Langley. Just 5 minutes from Berkhamsted station and easily accessible from the A41, we're the local choice for quality dance education
Get In Touch
Let us know if you’re interested in booking a class and we will get back to you as soon as possible!
Afonso School of Performing Arts
Vyne Theatre & Studios
Northbridge Road,
Berkhamsted,
HP4 1EH
(Overflow park behind Audley House)
Parent & Toddler classes only:
All Saints Church
Shrublands Road
Berkhamsted
(Street parking available but limited)
Available on WhatsApp
Phone: 07590348812
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Dance classes in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire | Serving Tring, Hemel Hempstead & surrounding areas.