A dance teacher wants to get children with emotional behaviour difficulties and special educational needs in Croydon dancing their problems away.

Jessica Elliott, 24, who runs two companies, Dance after School and J's Dance Factory, launched a J's Dance Factory branch in Croydon on Monday October 10.

The dance teacher, who won Spirit of London Community Business Entrepreneur Award last year, plans to expand a pilot project tested in Tower Hamlets into the area and instruct school teachers how to teach dance.

Miss Elliott, from Catford, said: “I am passionate about young people and the benefits that dance can bring.

“I am keen to empower more young leaders in the dance industry to get the right qualifications to achieve their dreams.”

She explained education cuts have seen schools cut back on employing dance instructors and she hopes her programme will equip teachers to cover the lessons themselves.

“I think this is a great way for both teachers and children to learn a new skill.

“It will give teachers the confidence they need to run their own classes and children the extra bit of support they require.”

Her new centre, her fourth dance factory across London, on Parchmore Road, Thornton Heath, will offer children aged three to 18 the opportunity to learn ballet, tap and street dance.

To get involved or book classes contact J's Dance Factory staff on 0844 414 2755 or email info@jsdancefactory.co.uk.