MEET THE TEAM

Our dedicated teachers bring not only their passion for dance but also a commitment to creating an inclusive, positive atmosphere for all students. They are trained to work with dancers of all abilities, ensuring each student can thrive and grow at their own pace.

HEATHER COONEY
A.ISTD. M.Sc.
Principal

Heather was born in Derby and started dancing at the age of three. She started her professional training at The Hammond School, Chester where she gained a 3 year diploma in professional dance and teaching, Imperial Society of Dance associate qualification in classical ballet, tap and modern and the ISTD Teaching Certificate in anatomy and physiology.

Since attending Hammond Dance, Chester and turning professional, Heather danced in many productions throughout the world in theatres and hotels. Working for various companies including L’Oreal, Nike, Warner Leisure, Disneyland Resorts and Disney Promotions. Her UK TV credits include “This Morning”, “The BAFTAAwards” and “The Performers”. Heather was part of the cast for a world cruise with Fred Olsen Cruises. Heather was asked to join Princess Cruises as a Principal Dancer and worked on their grand class ships.

Heather moved to Scotland to commence studies for a M.Sc. in Dance Movement Psychotherapy at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh. During this time, she taught at various pre-vocational dance schools and vocational colleges. In 2012 Heather both performed and helped create the opening ceremony for the Paralympics.

After completing her M.Sc. Heather took a one year contract with Eden Court Creative as a dance development worker bringing her up to the Highlands. In 2014 she founded The Cairngorm School of Dance and in August 2019 opened the The Cairngorm School of Dance Studios in Aviemore.

  • Musical Theatre

    Lucy studied Music Education at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and currently teaches at Kingussie High School. In addition, she teaches Musical Theatre with Heather at the Cairngorm School of Dance. Her main instruments are piano and saxophone, but she can often be found playing anything from drumkit to ukulele.

    Lucy has always been involved in Musical Theatre, from appearing on stage as a child to starting her first post as a Musical Director for a Glasgow-based youth theatre company at 19. Musical Theatre has always been her passion, and she is excited to share her skills and experience with the young people of the Cairngorm School of Dance.

  • Pilates & Contemporary Dance

    Lucy is a movement teacher, living with her family in Nethy Bridge. After graduating with an honours degree from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, she has worked as a dancer, choreographer and teacher, more recently concentrating on delivering pilates classes.

    Lucy began teaching at the Cairngorm Schol of Dance in 2023 and loves it!

  • Dance Teacher, Ballet & Tap