Carly Jones - Principal

Member of the Associated Board of Dance

Carly was born in Bedfordshire and started dancing at the age of two and a half with Sylvia Bebb. Carly realised at a young age that dancing was more than just a hobby and that her dream was to become a professional dancer. During Carly's time with Miss Sylvia she took exams in RAD Ballet, ISTD modern, tap, jazz and national to an advanced level. She enjoyed taking part in shows and competitions which included the amazing opportunity of performing at Sadlers Wells in the All England Finals in dances choreographed by Sian Sandford. 

At the age of 16 Carly auditioned successfully for the prestigious Northern Ballet School, Manchester and was awarded a scholarship to train for a Diploma in Professional Dance.  It was here that Carly learnt the technique, discipline and stamina required to succeed in the highly competitive world of performing arts. She is incredibly proud of her training having been taught by world renowned teachers and choreographers including Patricia MacDonald, David Needham and Eric Carpenter. On graduating from NBS Carly set out on a career that has seen her perform, teach and choreograph all over the UK and the world. 

Carly has danced for companies including Costa Cruises, Compagnie du Ponant with Dancers International and various cabarets across Europe. Most recently Carly has been a member of the teaching faculty at Bella Danza Studios - an elite dance school for children in Cheshire. During her time at Bella Danza Carly has been passionate in offering high class training in a positive and encouraging atmosphere and is constantly inspired by the dancers and teachers she works with. It is a privilege to continue to be part of the outstanding team and be given opportunities to choreograph for performances at venues including the Royal Albert Hall and The Dancehouse, Manchester. 

Carly established Belle Etoile Academy of Dance in 2016, and since that time has taught hundreds of children across Bedfordshire, passing on her knowledge, as well as her love of dance, to children and young people. Carly is registered with the Associated Board of Dance which offers regulated examinations in dance core subjects which are accredited by GQAL & OFQUAL and offers accredited technical examinations and medal tests in all forms of dance.

Carly has undertaken Paediatric First Aid training.

Miss Grace

Grace started dancing at the age of 2. She has trained in ballet, tap, modern, jazz, contemporary, street, hip hop, singing and musical theatre. Grace has performed and competed in many dance festivals over the years, including the All England. 

Grace's best dance moments and achievements were in 2017, when she represented England along with her team mates in Commercial dance group at The Dance World Cup, where they came 5th! Grace also attended the Rock Challenge finals in 2016 with her high school, and they came 3rd. Grace was lucky enough to have the opportunity to dance at Dance Promps at the Royal Albert Hall. Grace has a strong love for Musical Theatre, and has performed in the following shows: Chicago, Bugsy Malone, Spring Awakening, Grease, and many more.

Grace was President of her University Dance Committee for two years. She choreographed tap, ballet and contemporary for three years at University. Grace's team received 24 trophies in her last competition season, beating the previous record in their dance club history! Grace won Outstanding Contribution to Northampton Sport in 2023.

She finds it very rewarding to see the children's enjoyment of dance. Her aim for the future is to continue teaching and performing in musicals, alongside being a social worker.

Grace is very excited to be part of Belle Etoile!

Miss Chloë, BA (Hons)

Chloë started dancing at a very young age with Sylvia Bebb in Bedford and continued when she moved to France at the age of 4 with dance school ACDAC. As a child, Chloë pursued many hobbies with dance being the most prominent, she trained in a variety of dance styles including jazz, ballet and contemporary.

When she moved back to England at the age of 16, Chloë joined the contemporary company Initiate YDC and performed at multiple events in Milton Keynes and surrounding areas. She also found a passion for musical theatre when she started to perform with RARE Productions.

While studying for her International Business BA (Hons) degree, Chloë has found time to continue performing. During her first year in Brighton she joined The Waves, a cheerleading dance squad, and competed at two events including the ICC British Open Cheerleading Championships where her team came in 1st place for jazz and pom in their division. Whilst studying for her degree, Chloë joined the Bedford University dance team. Chloë graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in International Business.

Chloë is now working full time, but we look forward to her joining us to teach and assist classes again soon!

Miss Lauren

Lauren is Carly's sister. Lauren enjoys helping out with various roles including lots of our digital marketing, show programmes, hair and make up for shows and competitions. 

Lauren is a Deputy Headteacher, with over ten years of experience working in Bedfordshire Primary Schools.  She has a First Class Honours Degree in Education Studies. Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in helping young children to learn, grow and develop. She has specialist qualifications and experience in supporting children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). She loves the creative arts, and supports our holiday clubs with arts and crafts activities.