About us

Principal - Isabella Staines (Miss Bella) RAD BABE, RTS, LRAD

Bella grew up dancing in a local dance school in Oxford. During her time in secondary school Bella became a dance scholarship holder which led her to her future career as a dance teacher. She went onto train at the Royal Academy of Dance in 2019, alongside running SODA here in Oxford. Bella has achieved her Licentiate to the RAD alongside her degree, earning Registered Teacher Status as well as a High Merit in her Advanced One Ballet Examination. During her term at the RAD in London, Bella was trained by some of the most pretisgious teachers in the industry. She trained in Classical Ballet as well as Contemporary and Jazz Dance.

Alongside her work running SODA, Bella also works for a charity called MacIntyre. She works with vulnerable children and adults with different Learning Disabilities and/or Autism, to help provide dance classes and teacher training to those who may not be able to access it elsewhere. MacIntyre Dancer's aim is to break down stereotypes surrounding dance and ensure it is accessible to all, no matter their ability. The MacIntyre Dancer's often get involved in SODA's performances and events.

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What do we offer here at South OXFORD DANCE ACADEMY?

RAD Syllabus - Ballet

The RAD offers one of the most well rounded, thorough, and inclusive approaches to classical ballet training. We start from Pre-Primary (ages 3-6) and offer classes all the way up to vocational training. The grades offer a wide variety of options to suit all student’s needs. The vocational pathway is for students who are serious about a potential career in this field, or who excel in their classical training. It begins the preparation of pointe work and increases in difficulty up to Advanced 2 and Solo Seal.

Children at SODA will always be given the option to take part in various types of RAD examinations. This is not compulsory but is available to all. This will be communicated to the students/parents as and when it is time for exam season. The examinations are a fantastic opportunity for the students to showcase their hard work in order to earn a certificate and RAD medal.

Contemporary Dance

Contemporary dance is a modern take on classical dance training. Inspired by choreographers such as Martha Graham and Merce Cunningham, it allows dancers to express and move their bodies in new ways. Contemporary dance comes in many forms, we explore all techniques alongside release work.

Both our Junior and Senior contemporary groups have the opportunity to perform in local events as well as our annual show. They are also given the opportunity to compete in national competitions.

Street Dance

All new street dance with our very own Sophie Darling! Sophie is a previous SODA student herself and since leaving the school, has decided to come back and help inspire the next generation of dancers! Street dance is a fun filled class offered to both seniors and juniors. Sign up today!

Strength and Conditioning for Dancer's and Non-Dancer's

All dancer's require extra strength training alongside their normal classes. This directly links into their class work, looking at engaging new muscles and learning how to engage these to enhance their training. We use PBT techniques, using yoga balls and stretch bands, as well as pilates inspired stretches and circuits.

Bella recommends this class to all her senior dancers, but it is open to anyone who wishes to improve in their strength and flexibility. Although it can be hard work, the upbeat music ensures it is always fun!