Rhythm N Steps Dance Academy — Local services in Waitākere Ranges

As a trained and experienced Secondary School Teacher I can honestly say I have been exceptionally impressed with the kindness, fun and professionalism at Rhythm n Steps Dance Academy. I agree with many of the other whanau who have posted here that there is a positive vibe here that is hard to put into words. We are blessed with many outstanding dance schools in the West, but what sets this studio apart (in my opinion) is that the classes are small and a lot of focus goes into each student (I only wish I could have provided such attention in my public school teaching service...but with 30 in a class....!!) My 2.5 year old daughter literally RUNS into Helens arms every Saturday morning with joy and excitement, which warms my heart. I have read one rather "interesting" personal attack on the owner Helen on here by a fake account holder called Lexi Lopez; the fact that the attacker hides behind a pseudonym suggests that they wont own their angry words (because they know they lack truth/substance). I suggest this reviewer take responsibility for their own inner issues and get some help; or at least apologise, take the post down, and talk it over with Helen. I realise people have their own "truths" and agree to a degree that individuals be entitled to their own opinion. Lexi Lopez, your "truth" is mistaken for Helen having high expectations of you. I made the same mistake myself as a young dancer and have learnt the hard way that I was being too defensive and just needed to see that behind the "control and lots of critique" (remembering the context here is technical DANCE) that I was too sensitive and was unappreciative of the help and care that my teacher was trying to gift me. My outstanding childhood ballet teacher was going above and beyond her role for YEARS to guide me from a place of love, but I sadly was clouded by my own issues of vulnerability and not feeling "good enough" to see this until I left. I hope any disgruntled dance students who read this can try learn from my mistakes and see the truth of their own teachers. Because, lets be honest, dance teachers are NEVER in it for the money!! And I may as well add, neither are our altruistic public...

I have three daughters who are in classes with the studio now. We started over 5 years ago. All started with the little fairy ballet class. My third has just started and she is loving it. So many foundation skills learnt in such a fun way. My girls have made amazing friendship and developed strong relationship with their teachers. To see them go into a fairy class by themselves with those first lessons and then sit exams has been amazing. Developing life skills in such a supportive environment. Helen’s dedication and support is incredible. Who would have thought a fun little fairy class would have resulted into confident little ballerinas sitting exams...

My daughter danced at Rhythm n Steps for 15 years and loved her time there. She was given the opportunity to compete successfully in both solo and group competitions. Helen is professional, caring and supportive of all her students and always has their best interests at heart. Our daughters dancing years has seen her develop many wonderful attributes which have helped her succeed in her chosen profession. She is still involved in the Academy and enjoys every minute she is there and has a great respect for Helen. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Helen and Rhythm n Steps to any parent looking at starting their...