ABOUT US

At Afonso School of Performing Arts, we believe dance 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 over 40 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!

Alicia Afonso - principal & Director

Multi award-winning teacher with over 20 years 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 visits 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.

Learn more

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.

Read full bios here

"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 a 3 week trial period. Just book online or WhatsApp 07590348812.

What should my child wear for their trial?

Comfy clothes they can move in! Barefoot or sneakers are fine for most beginner classes.

Do you hold performances or showcases?

Yes! We hold our main show in a professional theatre every 2 years, plus class presentations and open musical theatre examinations in between.

How much are the classes?

The prices vary depending on the class type and length. Please enquire by email or WhatsApp us on 07590348812.

Is there a set uniform?

Yes, we have a set uniform for all classes. You will be given this information once the trial period is over and you decide to sign up.

Are exams and shows compulsory?

No. It is optional to participate in exams and shows, however, they are a HUGE part of doing dance and performing arts. Very few children opt out as they are very much the highlight of year. But we are very understanding of those that prefer not to, and those students are given equal opportunities in class during rehearsals and exam preparations.