At Footsteps Dance School, our Competition Teams offer a focused, high-energy, and supportive environment for committed dancers in Sale and Trafford. Designed for students already attending our freestyle dance classes, these invite-only teams give young performers the chance to grow through performance, progression and friendly competition.
From Juvenile to Senior level, each team is structured to help children build stage presence, improve technique, and experience the excitement of being part of a dynamic freestyle dance group.
Footsteps offers three non-competitive, performance-based teams:
Juvenile Team – typically under 9s
Junior Team – approximately ages 9 to 13
Senior Team – ages 14 and above
All dancers must already be enrolled in freestyle classes. Entry to a competition team is by invitation only, based on commitment, progress, and readiness. This ensures that every dancer receives appropriate support and challenge for their stage of development.
Our competition teams train weekly to prepare for a variety of performance opportunities and regional dance competitions. These include:
Footsteps shows (held every 18 months)
Local events such as Picnic in the Park and the Father’s Day Charity Showcase
In-house events including our Get Creative choreography showcase
Performing regularly helps build confidence, musicality and resilience. Our dancers work hard, but they do so in an environment that prioritises wellbeing, individuality and joy.
Our choreography team is made up of all six of our passionate and professional teachers:
♡ Laura – Leads all choreography and competition planning. A current professional dancer with expertise in lyrical and freestyle, bringing industry-level insight into every routine.
♡ Leighonie – Former Footsteps student, now a teacher, who mentors senior dancers with a focus on stretch and technique, lyrical and advanced freestyle.
♡ Lauren – School founder and creative director. Oversees progression and supports all team levels.
♡ Cara – Known for her enthusiasm and background in musical theatre and tap, adds flair and confidence-building elements to routines.
♡ Amy – Our ballet and jazz specialist, brings refined technical instruction and a nurturing touch to performance training.
♡ Fern – A former student turned teacher, leads beginner sessions with relatability and encouragement for those finding their confidence.
Together, our team brings a blend of expertise, energy and heart to every rehearsal.
A. Dancers must be invited by a teacher. We look for students who consistently attend class, demonstrate positive behaviour, and show technical progress.
A. Yes. We take part in regional competitions and also support dancers exploring solo competitive opportunities, while maintaining a balanced, supportive team culture.
A. Yes. Competition team dancers must be enrolled in at least one freestyle class to support technical development and ensure consistency in style.
A. Each team performs at least four times a year, with events including school shows, local showcases and regional competitions.
A. Absolutely. If you believe your child is ready for the next step, please speak to their freestyle teacher. We’ll happily discuss progression and what to expect from team life.
Conveniently located at Sale High School, our facilities are easily accessible for families in Sale, Sale Moor, and the Trafford area.
If you’re looking for children’s dance classes in Sale or the surrounding areas, Footsteps Dance School is the perfect choice.
Get in touch with us to secure your place and take the first step on your child’s dance journey.