Elina Patrou Academy of Dance

Elina began dancing at her mother’s ballet school when she was four years old.

Fuelled by a lifelong love of movement, she went on to study Classical Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Jazz, and Musical Theatre at London Studio Centre, earning a BA Honours in Dance. She later qualified as a Royal Academy of Dance ballet teacher.

 

A dedicated lifelong learner, Elina completed an MSc in Dance Science at Trinity Laban—one of the first programmes of its kind in the world. Her studies in injury prevention, rehabilitation, anatomy, nutrition, and psychology now inform her teaching, ensuring her students receive a well-rounded and evidence-based education.

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In addition to ballet, Elina is trained in Pilates, Gyrokinesis, Yoga, and Progressing Ballet Technique—a ballet-specific conditioning method endorsed by teachers worldwide.

Elina takes a student-centred approach to teaching, recognising and nurturing diverse learning styles. She is passionate about empowering her students and supporting their growth, both as dancers and as individuals.

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She had the privilege of teaching at The Van Niekerk Academy of Dance for five years alongside Suzanne Van Niekerk, and she is honoured to now continue the school’s legacy under her own name.

 

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