LOUISE - Key Persons

Darren's formal training began at the Jackie Palmer Stage School and Agency where he trained in Tap, Modern and Ballet and performed in many theatre, TV and film productions. He soon realised his real passion lay in teaching and he went on to become a fully qualified IDTA teacher (International Dance Teachers Association) and licensed Children's chaperone. He taught extensively at JPA and has helped to shape the dance careers of many students who have gone on to perform professionally. During this time he also established, with his business partner, the Step To It Academy in Chesham teaching children and adults of all ages. Not satisfied with an already busy schedule, Darren freelances for other schools in the Buckinghamshire and Berkshire area and I feel very fortunate to have him at our school where his adult jazz classes are one of the highlights of the weekly timetable and his choreography is much loved by the children. Darren also teaches at our annual 3-day Summer School which is now in its 7th year and he is a key choreographer for our bi-annual shows.

Job Titles:

• Hons ) Dance & Theatre, ISTD DDI & DDE in Modern Theatre

Sam's passion for all things dance including Ballet, Tap and Modern saw her gain numerous distinctions up to Advanced level at the Allied School of Dance where she trained from the age of 3. At 18 she was offered a scholarship at London Studio Centre where she was awarded a B.A. (Hons) in Dance and Theatre. Sam has been with the Louise Parkes School of Dance for over 11 years. In that time she has established a flourishing tap and modern division whilst completing her DDI and DDE in Modern Theatre with the ISTD gaining over 90 per cent in her practical exams. In addition to managing all the tap and modern classes, Sam teaches ballet from Pre-school to Grade 8 and she plays an integral role in producing and choreographing the school's bi-annual Shows and Summer Workshops.