What they say

“There is a lot of choice in Christchurch for ballet students but not all schools are equal. I spoke to a lot of parents and students around Christchurch in deciding where to send my son. I wanted a school that focused not only on discipline and precision but in keeping students engaged and motivated to work hard. Sharon Howell’s School of Ballet was our first choice. The school has a long established history and excellent teachers. The classes are small and students get opportunities outside of the classroom to dance for professional companies when they visit Christchurch. My son loves it here and is doing very well making new friends and passing his exams. “ Dale, parent

“My daughter started ballet with Sharon Howells when she was 4 years old. She is now in Grade 5 at the age of 10.

This is a fabulous ballet school. I love the main teacher, Sharon Howells, who is the school owner. She teaches all the grades through and hence she knows each student’s character. She is also an experienced RAD examiner both in NZ and in overseas. No doubt she is very familiar to the RAD program.

I like the atmosphere of this school, it’s just like a big family. When helping out I get a chance to meet other parents.

Even though it is not a big ballet school, students still have a chance to perform a formal and organised production on the stage. They also have the opportunity to join different performing competitions, dancing at public events like at retirement villages, Special Needs children Xmas party and Santa Parade, etc. All these experiences have built up my daughter’s confidence and she has really enjoyed dancing in front of people.” Jean, parent

“Hi Miss Howells and Flo,

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your hard work to keep the studio running well and to teach those little kids not only on how to dance, but in helping them to learn how to focus and listen during classes. Miss Howells is doing incredibly well in keeping those young children being engaged actively at each class.” Chi (a 6-year-old girl’s mum)

“My daughter, Chloe, loves Ms Sharon’s ballet class very much. Chloe: Ms Sharon is stern but can be humorous too!” Marie, parent

“Eira is doing pre-primary this term; she loves the learning environment, it is fun. She very much looks forwards to go to ballet every week. She likes to be a princess wearing pink ballet dress!

Miss Howells show the students how to move like animals such as penguin, elephant, tiger. She uses words that are easy for them to understand.

Personally I like how firm the teacher is by not having parents get involved too much during the class. I appreciate the patience the teacher with the children. I can see how she is passionate about dancing and teaching. Overall, it is a quality teaching I must say. Ms. Howells notices small things and always make efforts to improve her teaching quality. Thanks again for all the hard work.” Isabel, parent