A West Cumbrian dance teacher has said she is ‘over the moon’ as three of her students prepare to study at professional dance colleges.

Three students from Ignite Dance Academy, Brigham have won prestigious places at professional dance colleges following successful auditions and securing their places ahead of hundreds of students across the country.

Bo Robinson, 16, from Stainburn has just begun a B-Tech Extended Diploma in Dance at Addict in Leicester, Niamh Collins, 16, from Eaglesfield is about to start a 3-Year Diploma in Professional Dance at the Northern Ballet School in Manchester and Lucy Woodcock, 16, from Papcastle, has just started a Level 6 Musical Theatre Diploma at The Hammond in Chester.

All three learnt their trade through the academy and Ignite Dance Academy’s Principle has said she is ‘so proud’ of her students.

“I’m over the moon for them, especially as I’ve had them from when they were younger and I’ve seen them progress over the years – its just amazing,” said Zoe.

“It’s great for the younger ones to see the older ones succeed like this. My own daughter now wants to be a dancer as she’s seen how amazing they are. They’re so inspiring to the next generation and brilliant role models.

“What is nice is that the three of them have always been really encouraging towards each other and they’re also really supportive.

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“All three students graduated from Ignite in July 2023, and we are delighted to support them on their journey and look forward to following their exciting successful careers as they show the world the talent Cumbria has to offer.”

Ignite Dance Academy currently has more than 80 pupils on the books and goes into schools across West Cumbria.

Founded in 2015, the academy does classes for youngsters from the age of 2 right up until 21 and some places are still available for classes.