The Pickering Academy of Dance was established in 1985 by Miss Melanie Pickering at the age of 21, later joined by her sister, Miss Alison Pickering. 

Previous to this the Pickering Sisters had an extensive and successful performance history on stage and screen dancing all over the world, notably as Bluebell Girls at the famous Lido, Paris and for Bill Lloyd Productions. 

 

Melanie originally opened the school in Barnsley at a very poignant time, during the miners strike. Despite the hardship, the school survived, thrived and went on to be a success, growing in pupils and wonderful achievements. Over the years the school has moved to various locations and is now based at The Newton Hall, Chapeltown since 2001. 

 

Melanie and Alison were renowned for their work as technicians and perfectionists with an eye for detail, their creative choreography second to none. They have taught and inspired so many children over the years, so much so that many have gone on to pursue dance as a career. Pupils have become Royal Ballet Associates and Renaissance Scholars as well as successfully auditioning and gaining places at top vocational schools, colleges and universities leading to securing work within the West End, London, UK Tours, Abroad, Cruise Liners and The Royal Ballet School and Company. 

 

The Pickering Sisters certainly created a lasting legacy. So very sadly Melanie and Alison are no longer with us, both passed away aged 55 years due to Cancer, Alison in 2015 and Melanie in 2020. Taken far too young, they were not meant to grow old. So many treasured dancing memories. 

 

As per Melanie's wishes the school lives on and the Pickering name continues, now run by Rachel Green and Georgie Leatherland, both former pupils and teachers of the school.