Cara O’Shea
Founder & Teacher
Cara is a highly experienced ballet teacher with nearly 20 years of teaching at the Academy of Northern Ballet. She trained under internationally renowned teacher and dancer Yoko Ichino and teaches the Ichino Methodology, the specialist approach used at Northern Ballet. This methodology places a strong emphasis on strength, correct alignment, and a deep understanding of technique, supporting healthy, sustainable training for dancers of all ages. Cara is among a very small number of teachers who have been trained by Yoko Ichino to such a high level, giving her a rare depth of knowledge and expertise.
At the heart of Cara’s teaching is a genuine commitment to student wellbeing. She is passionate about creating a positive, nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and confident to develop at their own pace. Cara believes that strong technical foundations are best built through encouragement, enjoyment, and clear understanding. Her classes are engaging, carefully structured, and age-appropriate, and she is known for bringing out the best in each student, helping them to reach their individual potential. Parents value Cara’s upbeat, energetic approach alongside the genuine care, attention, and encouragement she gives to every child in her classes.

