Meet Kate

Principal & Founder

My love for dance began when I was six years old born and raised in Cape Town. From the moment I stepped into my first class, I knew dance would be part of my life forever. I am classically trained in RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) method. I went on to study at the UCT School of Dance under the late Dianne Cheesman, where I completed my Dance Teachers Diploma in Education. Those years shaped not only my technique but also my understanding of how to teach with intention and passion.

After graduating, I started my career teaching for non-profit organisation, working with children in informal settlements across Cape Town. It was a very humbling experience and taught me how powerful dance can be for confidence, self-expression, and a child’s happiness. I later taught at various studios around Cape Town, working with dancers of all ages and levels as well as adults.

My journey took me to Dubai in the middle East where I spent five years teaching at a well-known dance school. I mainly taught ballet, with some modern dance, and I had the privilege of working with children from many different cultural backgrounds. It was truly eye-opening and helped me grow enormously as a teacher and a person.

When I returned to Cape Town, I felt inspired and that the time was right to start something of my own. In 2020, Step It Up Dance Academy was born, beginning with online Mommy & Me classes during lockdown and growing into the beautiful community it is today.

I have a deep passion for children and I love seeing the way they see the world. I have a young daughter and it makes it even more special now. I always come down to their level, meeting them with patience, encouragement, and a sense of fun. I love sharing everything I’ve learnt over the years, and I truly believe the children we teach today are the future dancers and stars of tomorrow.