About Us
NCDA is a place where your child will be nurtured, encouraged and inspired through our unique and fun dance classes.
Each class is developed to encompass the whole child.
The physical and cognitive development of your child is equally important to the emotional and social aspects.
Our goal is to nurture and inspire beautiful human beings to live a happy and healthy life filled with love, kindness and gratitude.
Our Values at NCDA are Love & Kindness for oneself and of others.
Mindfulness with being present and joyful in the moment.
Nurturing each child physically and emotionally.
Inspiring every beautiful student to live to their full potential with
purpose and courage to follow their dreams.
"Each student is unique and I devote my time to motivate and inspire each individual student to express themselves through dance and find the grace, beauty, pose and elegance that a dancer can achieve. A student can learn some of life’s most important lessons in the dance studio that they will carry with them forever"
Melinda Cooper
Our Teachers
Melinda Cooper
Creative Director/Owner
Melinda (RAD RTS) started dancing at the age of 6 at Gosford City School of Dance. In her teenage years her teacher Susanne Easter inspired her to be a dancer and dance teacher. At the age of 16 Melinda attended full-time dance tuition with Tanya Pearson and Janece Graham while also performing with the Sydney Festival Ballet Company. Melinda then joined a well-known production company and spent many years dancing and travelling around the world. On Melinda’s return to Australia she worked as a Personal Assistant before marrying and starting a family of four children. Melinda studied with the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance and gained the Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies and is a registered member of the Royal Academy of Dance. Melinda is certified in the Acrobatic Arts Curriculum. Melinda has always had a passion for inspiring and teaching students. After many years of teaching dance Melinda observed how the students mood and well-being improved through movement. Melinda teaches on the premises that the mind and body are connected. Melinda has a Diploma in Mindfulness and a Diploma in Dance Therapy Psychotherapy. Melinda is also a certified Nutritionist and a certified ‘Once Upon a Ballet’ teacher. Melinda holds a current First Aid and CPR Certificate, and has a ‘Working with Children Check’.
Kristan Venables
Teacher
Kristan commenced ballet at the age of three at The Collette Ballet Academy, Eastwood. She then followed her passion and joined McDonald College of Performing Arts specialising in Ballet. Afterwards she attended full time ballet with Tanya Pearson and Conlan College before joining Ajkun Ballet Company in New York at the age of 17. Upon returning to Australia Kristan worked as a recruitment specialist for several years. Now married with two children, she continues to teach her passion with North Coast Dance Academy. Kristan is a certified ‘Once Upon a Ballet’ teacher. She holds a current First Aid and CPR Certificate and has a 'Working with Children Check'. Kristan believes that children who have the opportunity to dance will gain confidence, dedication and a passion that will last a lifetime.
Scarlett Haber
Student Teacher
Scarlett has been affiliated with NCDA from a very young age. Observing her development, both as an individual and as a dancer, over the years has been delightful. She takes pleasure in teaching, displaying patience, kindness, and compassion towards her students. Scarlett aspires to build a career in dance in the future. Scarlett has completed her HSC Dance Program. She also holds a current First Aid and CPR Certificate, and has a ‘Working with Children Check’.
Eva Rylands
Student Teacher
Eva is a graceful dancer who has completed her Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management. She is passionate about teaching and encouraging students to reach their potential. Eva holds a current First Aid and CPR Certificate, and has a ‘Working with Children Check’.
Esther Gilbert
Student Teacher
Esther has been dancing with NCDA since she was little. Esther has a beautiful dance style and is a very dedicated student. Esther is a confident and kind teacher who loves working with the younger students.
Hannah Gilbert
Student Teacher
Hannah began her dancing journey with NCDA. She approaches dance with enthusiasm, commitment, and a positive attitude. Hannah's caring nature makes her a wonderful role model, inspiring those around her.
Emily Kirkland
Student Teacher
Emily has been dancing with NCDA since it started. She adores the younger students and enjoys passing on her love of dance to them.
Code of Conduct
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Be on time to each class
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Be polite and respectful to the teacher, students and others
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Wear appropriate dance clothes
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Hair tied back or in a bun
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Always leave the premises with a parent or guardian
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No food, gum or lollies are permitted, drink bottle with water only
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No mobile phones
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Parents should not interrupt the class and if watching, must remain quiet at all times.
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Care for and respect the venue and facilities
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Have fun and enjoy!
Kind Words
"My daughter has been dancing at NCDA for over 6 years. It's such a positive and welcoming environment for students of all abilities. Mel and Kristan are encouraging, respectful and they nurture the students. It's evident the students love them!
They have enabled my daughter to grow in confidence and we wouldn't go anywhere else.
Thank you NCDA!"
Kate
