Artists In Motion · Aylesham, Kent
Why choose Artists in Motion for your child's dance education?
ISTD-qualified teachers, 14+ disciplines, and a community built around your child's growth from 18 months to adult.
Book a 2-Week TrialAbout the school
A school that builds people, not just dancers
At Artists in Motion, we believe the value of dance goes well beyond the studio. Every child who joins us develops discipline, resilience, and confidence that carries into every part of their life.
Our approach is deliberately long-term. We offer a structured pathway from 18 months through to adult classes, so your child never has to move school as they grow. The relationships they build with their teachers and classmates become part of who they are.
We are based in Aylesham and serve families across Canterbury, Dover, and the surrounding areas of Kent.
"Creating artists, not just dancers."— Lisa Steadman, Principal, Artists in Motion
Why AIM
Six reasons parents choose us and stay
ISTD-qualified teachers across every discipline
All of our teaching staff hold qualifications through the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, ISTD, one of the most respected awarding bodies in dance education. That means the standard of teaching your child receives is not down to chance. It is structured, examined, and professionally accountable.
The widest range of disciplines under one roof in the area
We offer more than 14 disciplines including Ballet, Tap, Modern, Acro, Street Dance, Musical Theatre, Aerial Academy, Progressing Ballet Technique, and more. Whether your child wants to perform on stage, develop strength and flexibility, or simply find something they love, they do not need to join multiple schools to find it.
A clear pathway from 18 months to adult
We structure our classes by age group, from Parent and Tot at 18 months through to our Inters, 14–18, and adult classes. Your child can join us as a toddler and stay with us through to their late teens without ever needing to start again somewhere new. That continuity matters for development and for confidence.
A genuine community, not just a class schedule
Parents consistently tell us that AIM feels different because of the relationships formed here. We run buddy pairings for new students, twice-yearly parent feedback sessions, and open observation weeks so families stay close to their child's progress. The friendships children make here often last well beyond their time in the studio.
Safeguarding and child welfare you can rely on
We take our duty of care seriously. AIM has a named Safeguarding Lead on the teaching team, and all staff are trained and vetted. If your child's wellbeing is your first concern when choosing a school, as it should be, this is not something we treat as a box-ticking exercise.
Purpose-built studio facilities in Aylesham, Kent
Our studio is built for dance. Proper flooring, the right space, and the right environment make a genuine difference to how children learn and how safe they are doing it. We are based in Aylesham and are easily accessible for families across Canterbury, Dover, and the wider Kent area.
Teaching standards
What ISTD qualification actually means for your child
The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing is one of the oldest and most respected dance education bodies in the world. ISTD-qualified teachers follow structured syllabi, are assessed to a professional standard, and are required to keep their qualifications current.
At AIM, every teacher on our team holds ISTD qualifications relevant to their discipline. That is not something every dance school in the area can say.
Examined and accredited
ISTD teachers are assessed to a professional standard and held to a structured syllabus, meaning your child learns technique that is correct from the start.
Progressive syllabi by discipline
ISTD provides graded syllabi across Ballet, Tap, Modern, and other disciplines. Students progress through a clear framework, with the option to take exams that carry recognised qualifications.
Exam grades that count
Our Inters group, 14–18 years, can work towards ISTD examinations that carry UCAS points, giving your older child an academically recognised qualification from their dance training.
What we teach
14+ disciplines, one school
Every class at AIM is taught by a qualified teacher with specialist knowledge of that discipline. We do not stretch one teacher across every style. This is what “under one roof” looks like when it is done properly.
Not sure which class is right for your child? Use our class finder or speak to us directly when you book your trial.
What parents say
Trusted by families across Kent
"Amazing staff and amazing children. After a very nervous start for my anxious daughter it became clear there was nothing to worry about at all! Such a supportive and welcoming environment. She has made friends, grown hugely in confidence and can’t wait to get to class each week. She attends Theatre school on Saturdays and is so looking forward to her first show. I can’t recommend AIM enough."
"We absolutely love AIM. My daughter has grown so much here, not just as a dancer, but in confidence, discipline and her love of dance. From increasing from 1 hour a week now to 10 hours a week. The team at AIM are patient, encouraging and passionate about what they do. They create a positive and supportive environment where every child feels celebrated. Classes are age appropriate and well organised, and all performances are always thoughtfully put together. My daughter calls it her second home and we are so grateful to be part of such a wonderful dance family!"
"A wonderful place, with the kindest teachers. Miss Lisa is incredible, and I highly recommend it to anyone considering dancing. I got everything I could have asked for, and more, going there, and I wish everyone at AIM nothing but the very best."
Getting started
How the first two weeks actually work
We do not offer one-week trials. We offer a two-week paid trial because we believe one class is not enough for a child to settle, form connections, and genuinely experience what AIM has to offer. Here is what to expect.
Book your trial
Fill in our short trial form and we will get back to you with availability. No commitment beyond the two-week period at this stage.
We match your child to the right class
We confirm the right age group and discipline for your child. If you are unsure, we will advise you based on age, experience, and what your child enjoys.
Your child gets a buddy
Every new student is paired with a classmate for their first few weeks. It removes the anxiety of walking into a room where you do not know anyone.
You receive a free AIM Starter Kit
All new starters receive a free starter kit as part of their trial. Uniform is not required until after the six-week mark, once you and your child have decided to continue.
Trial cost is paid monthly. One-time enrolment fee of £20. Classes run across 39 weeks per year.
Common questions
Questions parents ask before booking
What age can my child start at AIM?
We welcome children from 18 months in our Parent and Tot classes. From there, children move through Preschool, 3–4, Minis, 4–6, Juniors, 7–10, Seniors, 11–13, and Inters, 14–18. We also offer adult classes for those returning to dance or starting for the first time.
Are your teachers formally qualified?
Yes. All teaching staff at AIM hold qualifications through the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, ISTD. This is a condition of teaching at our school, not an optional extra. We do not use unqualified instructors.
Why is the trial two weeks rather than a single free class?
One class rarely gives a child enough time to settle. Our two-week trial allows your child to get comfortable, form initial friendships, understand the structure of the class, and give you a genuine basis for deciding whether AIM is the right fit. We believe this is more useful to families than a one-off taster.
Do I need to buy uniform before the trial starts?
No. We ask that uniform is purchased no later than six weeks from starting, once your child has settled and you have decided to continue. Comfortable clothing and soft indoor shoes are fine for the trial period.
Can my child take exams?
Yes. We follow ISTD syllabi and offer examinations across our disciplines. Students in our Inters group, 14–18, can work towards ISTD grades that carry UCAS points, providing a formal academic qualification alongside their dance training.
How far do families travel to attend AIM?
We are based in Aylesham and serve families from across Canterbury, Dover, Deal, and the surrounding villages. Our location is accessible from the A2 and has parking on site. Many of our students travel from Canterbury itself, as well as smaller rural communities nearby.
What if my child is nervous about joining a new class?
That is completely normal and something we plan for. Every new student is given a buddy in their class for the first few weeks. Teachers are experienced in welcoming new students and supporting children who need a little more time to settle. We will never push a child beyond what they are comfortable with.
Ready to see it for yourself?
Book a two-week trial and let your child experience AIM. No long-term commitment required until you are ready.
Book a Trial