Our Team

At NCH, our teaching team is united by our values of Pride, Encouragement, Respect & Opportunity.

Stephanie Ellis, Principal L.I.S.T.D
Stephanie graduated from the Urdang Academy with a National Diploma in Professional Dance. She featured in the industry as a professional dancer and choreographer before discovering a passion for teaching and becoming ISTD qualified to Licentiate level. As Principal of North Central Herts School of Dance, she adores leading such a talented and supportive school and couldn’t be prouder of all that her students achieve.

Megan Cowlam, Vice Principal DDE
Megan is a Bodywork Cambridge graduate with a Professional Diploma in Performing Arts. She continues to work professionally in the industry alongside her teaching and role as Vice Principal at NCH, bringing creativity, innovation, and fresh ideas to the school.

Ariane Jellett, Teacher BA (Hons)
Ariane is a Bird College graduate with a BA (Hons) in Dance and Musical Theatre and is currently completing her ISTD teaching qualifications. Passionate about dance and musical theatre, she inspires confidence in her students while nurturing their individuality and love of performance.

Lydia Jellett, Teacher DDI
Lydia graduated from Italia Conti and holds ISTD teaching qualifications. She brings her love of dance and nurturing personality to every class, encouraging students to grow in confidence and enjoy their journey as performers.

Jemma Lyttle, Teacher AISTD, AIDTA, BA (Hons)
Jemma, AISTD and AIDTA-qualified with a BA (Hons), is a primary school teacher and former dance school owner. She brings a wealth of experience to her teaching, encouraging and supporting every student to develop both technically and creatively.

Tilly North, Teacher BA (Hons)
Tilly recently graduated from London Studios Centre with a BA Hons in performing arts, she holds an Acrotrix Level 1 qualification and is currently completing her DDE with the ISTD. She brings energy, encouragement, and fun to her classes, helping students develop flexibility, strength, and confidence through dance and acrobatics.

Gemma Hurst, Teacher DDE
Gemma graduated from Margaret Howard with ISTD teaching qualifications and previously owned and led NCH for 15 years. Combining her experience with creativity and enthusiasm, she supports students to flourish both technically and artistically.

Stephanie Stone, BA (Hons) MA
Steffi graduated from Guildford School of Acting with a Master’s in Musical Theatre, after earning a BA (Hons) from the University of Chichester. She teaches professionally at performing arts schools and colleges and inspires students through singing and performance with her extensive experience and passion for the arts.

Lizzie Wood
Lizzie trained professionally in Musical Theatre at The Emil Dale Academy and The London School of Musical Theatre after discovering her passion for singing and performing arts at a young age. With professional performance experience both in London and internationally, and over seven years of teaching experience, Lizzie is excited to join the NCH team and inspire students through confidence, creativity, and performance.

Karen Kelly,
DSL & Child protection awareness
Karen’s connection to NCH began as a dance parent, with both of her children training at the school before she proudly joined the team as our Designated Safeguarding Lead. With a background in teaching and assessing, along with many years of valuable safeguarding experience, Karen brings knowledge, care and reassurance to her role, ensuring every student remains safe, supported and well looked after within our NCH family.

We know what parents and carers are really looking for in a dance school:

A safe, nurturing space where your child is encouraged.
Qualified, passionate teachers who understand every child can flourish individually
A variety of dance styles and class times that fit into your family schedule
Amazing performance opportunities, not just classes
A local, community-based studio that makes you feel welcome and included