Dance classes near Dover for families who want more
If you live in Dover and want more for your child than a noisy school club or a casual village group, Artists In Motion in Aylesham gives you a proper dance education within easy reach of the town. Many of our dancers come from Dover and the surrounding areas, so the journey is already part of lots of family routines.
AIM is a family run school. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, but there is still clear structure and expectation. Children are asked to listen, work hard and treat others well. In return they get experienced teachers, a supportive environment and the chance to be part of a real dance community rather than just a class that comes and goes each term.
Parents from Dover often say they like that AIM feels welcoming and down to earth, while still taking technique, behaviour and progress seriously.
Check out our reviews on Google
My son absolutely loves his AIM classes and as a parent I am extremely happy with the high level of teaching he receives. Everyone at AIM is helpful and professional and works towards a child centered approach.
My daughter takes part in two classes at AIM, Musical Theatre and Street Dance and she loves them both equally. She can't wait to show us what she has learned after each session and it's lovely to see her confidence grow each week. The lessons are fun and engaging and the teachers are friendly and approachable as well as being highly skilled and professional. My daughter is extremely happy here and a happy child makes for a happy mum. I highly recommend AIM.
Lisa and her lovely team are the most amazing dance school, giving children that live in the countryside and surrounding towns a chance to shine at all different dance styles. My daughter has been going to ballet class since she was two and love her dance family that she has come to know in the studio and on zoom sessions. She has learnt to share, take turns, rhythm beats/count and have fun with her friends. We can’t wait for her to grow in her dance knowledge with Artist in motion school of dance.
Prices and Payment Structure
| 30 Minute Class | 45 Minute Class | 60 Minute Class | 75 Minute Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| £15.00 per month | £19 per month | £25 per month | £29 per month |
- 4 week trial period. Cancel completely free of charge if you are not 100 percent happy after 4 weeks.
- All inclusive, class fees all paid for.
- Use of GoCardless, the UK’s most reliable and trusted secure Direct Debit company.
- Always 1 month in hand, which acts as your deposit and four week notice period should you decide to leave us.
- One time £20 enrolment fee (per student).
- Free AIM starter kit for every student.
Classes for Dover children, teens and adults
From small children who never stop dancing around the living room, to teenagers who already know they love performing, there is usually a class that fits.
Typical options include
- Preschool and early years dance classes
- Ballet from beginner level upwards
- Tap and modern for children who enjoy rhythm and show style
- Jazz, commercial and street inspired dance for confident movers
- Acro classes for children who enjoy tricks, strength and flexibility
- Musical theatre for those who love to sing, act and dance
- Aerial hoop and special workshops at selected times
- Adult classes where parents and older learners can join the fun
The timetable is reviewed across the year, with after school and weekend slots that work for busy Dover families. If you have more than one child, the team will usually try to place siblings in classes that sit close together so you are not in and out of the studios all day.
Why Dover parents choose Artists In Motion
Dover families have options, so if you are going to leave town to travel to a dance school it needs to be worth it. Parents who make the trip to AIM are usually looking for three things, a kind environment, proper training and clear communication.
At AIM you will find
- Small class sizes where teachers actually notice each child
- Qualified staff who understand safe technique and child development
- A clear structure of grades and levels so you can see progress
- Regular performance opportunities for those who enjoy the stage
- Firm, fair expectations around behaviour, kindness and respect
The school has a strong stance on bullying and unkindness. If friendship issues crop up, staff address them quickly and calmly. The goal is always the same, for Dover students to feel safe, encouraged and able to focus on their dancing rather than worrying about what others will say.
Travelling from Dover to AIM Studios
AIM Studios are based at Intex House on Cooting Road in Aylesham, a short drive from Dover. Many families travel in from the town along familiar routes and quickly build it into their weekly pattern.
For a lot of Dover parents the evening looks like this, pick up from school, quick snack in the car, straight to class, then home again in good time for dinner and homework. Adults who train with us often come in after work, use class to clear their head, then head back to Dover feeling more relaxed.
There is parking outside or close to the studios, which keeps drop off and pick up simple even on busy nights.
Exams, shows and performance opportunities for Dover dancers
If your child wants to work towards exams or loves being on stage, there is plenty for them at AIM. When students are ready, they can enter recognised graded exams that build confidence and give a clear sense of progress.
Across the year AIM also runs
- Full school shows in theatre style venues
- In house performances for families and friends
- Holiday workshops and short courses
- Occasional community events and special projects
Not every Dover dancer wants the pressure of exams or the spotlight. Some are happiest treating class as their weekly space to move, see friends and feel good about themselves. Both approaches are respected. Teachers will always help you decide which path fits your child and your family schedule.
Support for nervous beginners from Dover
Some children arrive at AIM full of energy and ready to leap straight in. Others turn up from Dover feeling shy, unsure or worried they will be the only new one in the room. Our team is very used to both.
Teachers and front of house staff will
- Greet new students by name
- Explain what will happen in simple, calm language
- Pair nervous dancers with friendly classmates
- Give encouragement without putting them on the spot
If it helps, you can usually stay close by during the first visit, depending on the class and age group. The aim is simple, your child leaves their trial feeling proud that they did it and able to picture themselves coming back the following week.
Trials, fees and uniforms for Dover families
If you are not sure what style to choose or whether your child will enjoy dance, a paid trial is the best place to start.
A trial gives you
- A low cost way to reserve a place in a suitable class
- A chance to meet the teacher and see how they interact with the group
- Honest feedback on whether the level and style are right
Ongoing fees are set out as clear monthly payments. There are no surprise extras hidden in the wording. Uniform is introduced gradually. Dover families can start with simple, comfortable clothing and suitable footwear, then move to full AIM uniform once their child has settled and wants to continue. The online uniform shop makes it easy to order the correct items without guessing.
How to get started if you live in Dover
If you are based in Dover and thinking about dance classes, getting started is straightforward.
- Visit the AIM website and open the page for dance classes near Dover or the main Aylesham timetable
- Pick a class that fits your child’s age and experience, or ask the team for a suggestion
- Complete the enquiry or paid trial form with your details
- Wait for confirmation with your class time, directions to AIM Studios and simple guidance on what to wear and bring
On the day of the trial, aim to arrive a little early so your child can see the studios and meet the teacher before class begins. After that, the real test is simple. If they walk out smiling, talking about the teacher and asking when they can go again, you know the journey from Dover is going to be worth it.
Where You Can Find Us
Studio Address
AIM Studios, Intex House, Cooting Road, Aylesham, CT3 3EP
Contact
Phone: 07974 930 845
Email: jessica@artistsinmotion.co.uk
By Car
- 15 minutes from Canterbury via the A2.
- 20 minutes from Dover via the A2.
By Bus
- From Canterbury: 89 bus from Canterbury Bus Station to Aylesham; runs about hourly; journey ~18–24 minutes.
- From Dover: 982 / 983 buses towards Aylesham; weekdays only; journey ~50 minutes (check timetable).
Get in Touch to Book a Trial
Frequently Asked Questions
How easy is it to travel from Dover to AIM Studios
Do you offer a free or paid trial for dancers from Dover
What ages from Dover can join your classes
Which dance styles are available for Dover students
Can we fit travel from Dover around school clubs and work commitments
Can Dover dancers take exams, shows and performance work with you
My child is shy and has never danced before in Dover, can they still join
How do I book a trial class if I live in Dover
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