A dance teacher who hosts classes in Redditch has won a prestigious award for her "unique" and "stand out" dance school. 

Helena Mitchell won a top prize after being recognised at the Dance Business Awards 2024. 

The awards took place on August 7 and saw Ms Mitchell come out on top in the 'stand out school because you are different' category. 

The category recognises a dance school that has "found their USP and created a different and unique dance business". 

Helena Jane Classes and Coaching, the dance school run by Ms Mitchell, is a dance school for adults with a specialist focus on offering classes for over-50s. 

The judges said that Ms Mitchell was picked for her "love and desire to create a dance school for the over-50s where they have all the opportunities and more that a usual kids' school might have."

Reacting to the award win, Ms Mitchell said: "When I started my first Silver Swans ballet class, I had no idea where it would lead, how much I would love building my school for adults and how many fabulous people I would meet along the way." 

The judges also recognised that the classes are jus the starting point and they offer the opportunity t bring like-minded adults together through dance. 

The business also offers social events, fundraising and performing opportunities. 

The judges said: "It’s the social events, the fundraising and the performing opportunities these adults have that really shines a light on this principal’s passion.

Helena Jane Class and Coaching offers classes in ballet, tap and theatre for adults across Worcestershire and Warwickshire including Redditch, Droitwich and Alcester. 

For more information or to get involved visit helenajanedance.co.uk