A DANCE school principal has praised her students for their dedication to the craft after recent exam successes.

Brampton-based Nicola Ivinson spoke of her great pride in her students as the results from the International Dance Teachers’ Association exams were released.

Sixty-five pupils from Nicola Ivinson’s School of Dance, which holds classes in Brampton, Ivegill and Kirkoswald, were put through their paces in ballet, tap and theatre craft exams.

However, the stress turned out to be worth it, with every pupil passing their exam - 31 achieving merit and 34 achieving distinction.

“All of the children came out of their exams with huge smiles,” said Nicola. “I am so proud of the fantastic results that the students were awarded.

“There was a lovely atmosphere outside of the exam room – children were either having their hair done by the hairdresser, having a practice or relaxing before going into the exam room.

“All of the children worked extremely hard towards their exams - with many pupils putting in lots of extra practice at home - and the results have shown this.

“The examiner commented that ‘all the candidates were neatly attired and enthusiastic in their various studies, each giving of their best with work of a pleasing standard’.

“Thanks must go to many people who helped on the day, including Pat Ivinson for refreshments, Kate Richardson for operating the music in the exam hall and Aimee Burrus for her help in making the day run smoothly.

“And I would like to say a special thank you to those senior pupils who assisted with the younger pupils in the weeks leading up to the exam.”

To celebrate her pupils’ success at the exams, which took place in March after months of preparation beforehand, Nicola held a presentation evening for both pupils and parents at Brampton Community Centre at the end of last month.

One pupil of Nicola’s in particular - Sophie Marsh - had extra reason to celebrate.

Receiving a high distinction in her intermediate ballet exam, she has now been nominated for the International Theatre Dance Awards, which take place in Manchester next February. Sophie has twice before been nominated for the prestigious award.

Nicola’s dance school is now gearing up for further events, including more exams next month.

In August, the school will be holding its annual summer school, a week of dance rehearsals before a final showcase performance at the close of the week.

For further information, Nicola can be contacted on 0797 060 9811, or via email at nicolaivinson@hotmail.co.uk.