MEET THE TEAM
NIKI TAYLOR AIDTA- PRINCIPAL
Niki has been dancing since the age of five, with core training in Ballet, Tap, and Freestyle. She is an Associate of the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA).
In 2015, Niki founded Taylor’s Dance Company, and in 2023 launched Dance for Everyone CIC, a community initiative aimed at making dance accessible to those with limited opportunities. She also serves on the board of Creative Colchester, helping to connect and support the wider arts community in the area.
SOPHIE HUNT- VICE PRINCIPAL
Sophie joined Taylor’s Dance Company as a Dance Mum and quickly became a regular helper at events and in reception. Her childcare background and dedication made her a natural fit for the team.
Now a core member of the TDC team, Sophie plays a vital role in the day-to-day running of the business, she keeps everything organised behind the scenes. Her calm, capable presence and deep understanding of working with children and families make her an invaluable part of the TDC community.
HOPE WOOLSTON-PHILLIPS- TEACHER
Hope has been dancing since the age of three. After leaving her dance school at 18, she explored multiple genres before falling in love with Burlesque—a passion that has earned her several awards and led her to open her own Burlesque school, where she empowers women to feel confident and celebrate their individuality.
Hope joined TDC’s adult classes in 2021, rekindling her love of traditional dance styles. Today, she brings that renewed enthusiasm—and the stagecraft of an award-winning performer—to the studio, teaching younger students with energy, creativity, and a focus on self-expression.
SOPHIE HILL- TEACHER
BETH WRIGHTSON- TEACHER
Beth began dancing at the Jackie Cox Theatre Dance School in Grays in the late 90s and, in 2002, successfully auditioned for The English Youth Ballet. She went on to train at Mala Dance as both a student and class helper until 2009, before returning in January 2024 as an Assistant Teacher. She studied Dance, Drama & Theatre Studies at college and will begin her ISTD teacher training in September 2025.
Throughout her journey, Beth has performed at prestigious venues including The Wimbledon Theatre, Sadler’s Wells, His Majesty’s Theatre and The Royal Albert Hall. She treasures the sense of community dance gave her as a child and is passionate about passing that on to her students. Beth loves seeing pupils grow in both confidence and ability, while enjoying the creativity and fun that dance brings.
SAMANTHA CANTRELL AISTD- TEACHER
Sam began dancing at the age of 3 in a Saturday class at a local village hall—where she now teaches her own students as the founder of Ignite Dance Company. An ISTD-qualified teacher, Sam specialises in Disco and Street Dance, bringing energy and passion to every class.
A long-time friend of TDC, Sam has been a regular performer and supporter at our showcases and events. In addition to her dance career, Sam also runs her own accountancy firm, balancing creativity and business with ease.
AIMEE PETTIFER AISTD- TEACHER
Aimee has been dancing for as long as she can remember. She graduated from Masters Performing Arts College in 2016 and has performed on The X Factor, in music videos for renowned choreographers, and at multiple Children in Need events.
Since gaining her DDI in ISTD Ballet, Tap & Modern, Aimee has taught a wide range of dance styles. She joined TDC in 2022, bringing vibrancy, fun, and enthusiasm to every class. Aimee loves sharing her knowledge and passion for dance with the next generation.
TIA MCINTOSH- TEACHER
Tia has been dancing since the age of 4, starting out in disco and freestyle, where she competed across the UK. She later trained at Performers College for three years, gaining a BA (Hons) in Professional Dance & Musical Theatre, as well as completing her ISTD DDE teaching qualifications in Modern and Ballet. Alongside dance, Tia has also been a cheerleader, gymnast, swimmer and netballer, giving her a strong and versatile foundation in performance and movement.
Passionate about teaching, Tia loves inspiring her students and seeing their confidence and creativity grow through the arts. She has recently qualified as a Pilates and Reformer Pilates Instructor and is excited to be setting up her own Pilates studio.