Walsall dance school steps into new studio with £6,000 grant support
A rapidly growing dance school has expanded into a new premises in Willenhall after securing funding to create a dedicated space for classes, helping the business reach more young people and broaden its community offer.
Founded in 2019 with just five students, Danceology has grown significantly and now welcomes more than 50 children each week, delivering 11 group classes alongside over 70 private lessons. The school has quickly established itself as a positive and engaging environment for young people across Walsall.
The business recently received a £6,000 grant from Walsall Business Support, contributing towards the set-up of a new studio in Wood Street. The funding has supported the purchase of essential equipment including flooring, mirrors and studio resources, enabling the owner to safely run more classes and enhance the overall experience for students.
Sophie Eaton-Lees, founder of Danceology, said: “The grant has been a huge help in the opening of my new premises. It’s allowed me to invest in the equipment needed to create a safe and welcoming environment for my students, and to run more classes. Ultimately, my goal is to reach more children, giving them a positive space to build confidence, make friends and stay active.”
Walsall Business Support board member Rob Colbourne OBE said: “We are delighted to support this growing dance school as it invests in a new dedicated space for young people in the community. Creating accessible opportunities for children and young people to stay active, build confidence and develop new skills is incredibly valuable, and we look forward to seeing the business continue to thrive.”
The school offers a wide range of classes including freestyle disco, lyrical, street dance, flexibility, fitness, acro and gymnastics, primarily serving children and young people aged 3 to 19. With the new studio, there are plans to expand the timetable further to include additional disciplines such as performing arts, ballet and toddler classes.
Looking ahead, the new premises is set to become more than just a dance studio, with ambitions to create a wider community space offering a variety of clubs and activities.
Sophie also hopes to introduce free or subsidised sessions for families facing financial challenges, ensuring more young people can access opportunities to stay active, build confidence and form friendships.
Walsall Business Support offers grants and a free training needs analysis to businesses looking to generate growth, create employment or shape training opportunities within the borough of Walsall. Applications can be made using an online form on the WBS website by businesses seeking investment in new projects or wishing to improve skills.