News
News
THE TEAM
Janine Sadler
Principal
Janine, the principal of Footsteps Dance School, has been passionate about dance from a young age, dedicating her life to the art form. With extensive experience and a commitment to fostering a love for dance in others, she not only teaches but also nurtures the potential of each child, helping them grow into confident dancers and individuals. Over the years, Janine has successfully trained eight new instructors, expanding the reach and impact of the school.
Janine’s dedication to dance is a family affair. While her daughters, Morgan and Abbie, were once a huge part of Footsteps Dance School, they have since moved on to pursue their own paths. Morgan now dances on cruise ships worldwide, showcasing her talents on an international stage, while Abbie has become a midwife. Both remain a testament to the nurturing environment Janine created at Footsteps, where each dancer is encouraged to pursue their dreams.
Her impressive qualifications reflect a deep knowledge of dance and fitness. She achieved her first major certification in 1991 and has since amassed a range of credentials, including Associate levels in Latin, Street, Cheerleading, and Freestyle, as well as Membership in Rock ‘n’ Roll. Additionally, Janine holds a Fellowship in Freestyle, showcasing her advanced expertise. Complementing her dance qualifications, she also has a Diploma in Sports Psychology and a YMCA Exercise to Music Qualification. Janine is enhanced DBS checked and safeguarding trained, ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. As the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), she upholds the highest standards of child protection, providing a safe, professional, and comprehensive learning environment where every dancer’s potential is developed and celebrated.
Kelly Morris
Vice Principal
Kelly, the Vice Principal at Footsteps Dance School, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for dance to her role. Having danced for many years, she has developed a profound understanding of both the technical and expressive aspects of the art. Her background in childcare, holding an NNEB in Childcare and extensive management experience, makes her an exceptional educator, particularly for the school’s younger age groups.
Kelly’s qualifications extend beyond dance, as she is also a certified first aider, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for all students. Since obtaining her Associate qualification in Freestyle in 1995, she has dedicated herself to creating a fun, engaging, and educational atmosphere in her classes. Her unique blend of dance expertise and childcare experience makes her especially adept at working with young children, fostering their love for dance from an early age. Kelly is enhanced DBS checked and safeguarding trained, reinforcing her commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for every student. Known for her warm and approachable demeanor, Kelly makes Saturday mornings at Footsteps Dance School a highlight for many children, creating an environment filled with joy, energy, and memorable experiences.
Morgan Sadler
Associate Freestyle
Morgan, Janine’s daughter, began with Footsteps as a baby rosette. At 6, she was the UK Runner-Up for the 6 to 8 Rosette Rock'n'Roll, and won the UK Champion title at 7 and 8. She continued competing in the UK finals until age 19, winning the Rock'n'Roll title again. Morgan also won the Street branch Champion title and achieved high-level qualifications in ballet, tap, and jazz. She performed in local pantomimes and amateur theater, and at 16, joined the West End Kids troupe, performing across the UK.
After her A levels at 18, Morgan earned a scholarship to Italia Conti Arts in London, graduating with a Musical Theatre Diploma/Degree. During the COVID lockdown, she passed the IDTA Professional Dance Teachers exam with Distinction and also became a certified fitness instructor.
Michaela McGregor
Associate Freestyle
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Brooke, Olivia, Aidan, Charlotte, Ella & Lily
Student Teachers
Brooke has been dancing since the age of 3, starting her dance career with Irish dancing, where she competed at major events, including the Great British Championships and the World Championships. She joined Footsteps at the age of 9, and while one of her passions is performing arts, which she studied in college, her other great love is being part of the Footsteps family. Brooke has performed in every dance show since joining Footsteps and has achieved numerous successes in competitions. One of her proudest moments was winning 1st place at the Great British Championship in Blackpool for Rock’N’Roll with her cousin Oscar. She has also placed many times in South East events, including a recent 1st place in solo slow dance for the 19-25 category. Brooke has also partnered in syllabus Rock’N’Roll, helping her cousin Bobbie reach the finals in Blackpool, where they placed 1st together. She thrives in the competitive atmosphere and is always cheering on her fellow dancers, with Saturdays at Footsteps being the highlight of her week. Brooke especially loves helping the 3-5-year-olds, sharing her passion for dance with the next generation.
Olivia has been dancing at Footsteps since she was 3 years old, and over the years, she has competed and placed in the finals of many competitions, including rosette, star dance, rock 'n' roll, freestyle, and most recently achieved 2nd place in slow dance. She has a real passion for helping with the rosette class, and she especially loves seeing the children grow and gain confidence. Olivia has been part of every Footsteps show since she was old enough to take part, and her performances have taken her to the West End, Mayor's Shows, charity events, and even Blackpool. Watching her grow into a confident and talented young woman has been a joy, and her love for Footsteps shines through in everything she does.
Aidan has been dancing at Footsteps for 8 years and has achieved many goals during his time here, such as 1st place at the Guildford South East Qualifiers, 2nd place at the Blackpool National Finals, and many more. He has performed in three Footsteps shows and says, "The family environment that is encapsulated within these shows makes them even more fun to perform in and watch." In September, Aidan will be in his final year at performing arts college, where he will spend the year auditioning for dance and musical theatre universities, taking exams, and performing in shows and conventions such as "Move It."
Charlotte joined Footsteps in September 2009 just before her 3rd birthday and, now at 18, has built an impressive list of accomplishments. Over the years, she has secured multiple South East and National Final placements, including a recent 1st place in the South East Qualifiers for freestyle pairs and 2nd place at the National Finals in Rock’N’Roll with her partner Aidan. Charlotte has taken part in 6 Footsteps shows, and her passion for dance only continues to grow. She plans to keep dancing for many more years and finds immense joy in inspiring the younger generation, passing on the same love for dance that was sparked in her when she first started.
Ella has been dancing at Footsteps since 2016, when she joined at the age of 6 after watching a show that featured her cousin Lauren. Inspired by the performance and eager to make new friends, Ella and her sister Hannah both joined, and she’s loved being part of Footsteps ever since. Over the years, Ella has performed in 3 Footsteps shows and competed in 2 qualifiers, reaching 6th place in the 9 and under category at Blackpool. In 2018, she also qualified for the Street Nationals in Stoke-on-Trent. Now 15, Ella has taken on the role of helper since 2022, where she enjoys giving back to the younger dancers and sharing the same joy she found when she first started.
Lily has been dancing since she was 7 years old and is now 15, having competed in qualifiers every year since she started. She has performed in 3 Footsteps shows and the Basingstoke Variety Show at The Anvil. One of her proudest achievements is winning at both Guildford and Blackpool with her team, Pinkilicious. For nearly a year, Lily has also been a dedicated helper, and she loves how welcoming and supportive the Footsteps dance school community is.
Chris Dale
Design & Marketing
Chris is a vital, behind-the-scenes contributor at Footsteps Dance School, ensuring the school’s performances and public presence excel. He creates music mixes for shows, designs posters and programmes, and manages the website, media, and social media, keeping Footsteps engaging and up-to-date.
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With a competitive dance history since age 17, Chris has qualified for Blackpool every year and achieved 3rd place nationwide in Rock ‘n’ Roll with partner Luannsa. He has been involved in every Footsteps show since he started, bringing both performance experience and dedication.
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Though no longer competing, Chris is pursuing the International 2 Award in Rock ‘n’ Roll and plans to take a teacher’s exam one day, showing his ongoing passion for dance and education
Fidelma Charlton
Tea Bar, Door Person & More
This incredible lady truly embodies greatness - words hardly do justice to her legendary status. Fidelma is deeply cherished by everyone at Footsteps, and her impact is immeasurable. With her caring nature, radiant smile, and thoughtful demeanor, she brings warmth and positivity to every interaction.
We are profoundly grateful for all that she does for us. Fidelma’s contributions go beyond measure, and she has a unique ability to make everyone feel valued and appreciated. And let’s not forget, she makes the best cuppa around!
Her presence and efforts are truly appreciated and celebrated by all.
