TEACHERS

CARMEN GIBSON
Founder & Principal
Carmen has been passionate about the arts and education from an early age. Beginning her dance journey at just three years old, she quickly discovered that her true calling lay in teaching and supporting others. By the age of 14, she was assisting dance classes, finding immense joy in helping children develop their skills and confidence. She later refined her teaching abilities at the renowned Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, gaining qualifications that have supported her 10+ years as a dedicated dance teacher. Carmen is also a proud member of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD). Carmen’s enthusiasm for education extends beyond the dance studio. She has worked as a preschool practitioner and a primary school teacher, taking on leadership roles such as overseeing Special Educational Needs (SEN) programs and teaching sport. Her commitment to making education accessible and engaging for all students has been a cornerstone of her career. In 2020, Carmen’s dedication took her to Ghana, where she volunteered in schools, blending her love of the arts with her teaching methods. Using funds she personally raised, Carmen introduced creative materials to enhance her lessons. Unfortunately, her time there was cut short due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but the experience deepened her passion for integrating creativity into education and making arts accessible for all. Upon returning home, Carmen expanded her expertise by working as a professional children’s chaperone on TV and film sets. She also trained as an interior designer, further nurturing her artistic talents. Today, Carmen continues to combine her creative skills with her dedication to education. She strongly believes that children thrive when learning is infused with art, dance, and other creative forms. Her mission is to inspire young minds, fostering a lifelong love of learning and ensuring creativity remains at the heart of every child’s educational journey.

SARAH JAUFFUR
Drama, MT & Street
Sarah is a passionate and dedicated performing arts educator with a lifelong love for dance, drama, and musical theatre. A qualified Early Years Educator and certified LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art) teacher, she has been inspiring young performers from an early age. With experience teaching in both the UK and America, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her students. Her expertise in musical theatre, combined with her nurturing approach, makes her an exceptional teacher who is committed to shaping the next generation of performers. Beyond the classroom, Sarah has also showcased her talents on screen, including a feature in the Aladdin film.

LILY KUNZE
Arts Educator
Lily is a skilled and enthusiastic educator with extensive experience working with young learners. She holds a diploma in Primary Education and is a fully qualified Early Years Practitioner. Lily also has additional training in Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Makaton, enabling her to effectively support children with diverse learning needs. With a natural ability to engage and inspire children, Lily creates a supportive and nurturing environment where children can explore their artistic potential. Her strong understanding of child development allows her to tailor her approach to meet the unique needs of each student. Lily’s enthusiasm for art, combined with her caring and approachable nature, makes her a valuable asset in helping children express themselves creatively while fostering their development in a positive and structured setting.

TARA GIBSON
Arts Educator
Tara is an accomplished arts educator with a wealth of experience in both the arts and education sectors. Holding a degree in Textiles and a Master’s in Art History, she combines her academic expertise with a deep passion for creative expression. With over 50 years of dance experience, Tara brings a lifetime of artistic passion and knowledge to her role, inspiring students and fostering a love of creativity in every lesson she teaches. Tara has had the privilege of working alongside children and teachers at the prestigious Royal Ballet School, where she contributed to the development of young talent. Her experience also includes assisting and chaperoning at various dance shows, offering invaluable support to both performers and organisers. Tara’s dedication to the arts and education makes her an inspiring mentor for all her students.