From the age of three I attended classes in Ballet and Tap. I remember quite clearly not wishing to join in with the other children in class, and crying in the hope that I could go home. After a couple of weeks, following words of encouragement from the teacher to my parents to persevere a little longer, thankfully Mum agreed to!

As a child and in early teens I looked forward to the long days rehearsing each Saturday. I would return home with tired aching limbs and blistered toes from Pointe work. I was never very competitive at school, but I thrived on the challenges of a ballet class, developing confidence and acquiring an appreciation of classical music from an early age. I have such fond memories of those years… such exciting times.

Following years of dance training, examinations and teaching courses, I eventually fulfilled my childhood dreams of becoming a teacher, choreographer, and Principal of my school the ‘ Sheila Ann Stage School ' which you now know as Counterpoint.

It has always been my wish to pass on that same enjoyment and love of dance my teacher gave to me. Since moving the school to Swansea College it has been possible for us to develop many more classes and offer students all aspects of Performing Arts for children and adults.

Counterpoint has a reputation for being a serious school with high standards. We are proud to have such a reputation and do not look upon this as a criticism in any way. On the contrary, it simply means that we aim for all our children taught from an early age to train correctly, laying firm foundations which prepare students for whatever aspirations they may have in the future. Classes may still be a magical experience for all. I feel sure so many children would not have achieved their successes and remained with us for so many years had classes not been enjoyable.

Students training at Counterpoint develop a confident, intelligent approach to dance. Dance itself develops confidence, graceful poise and builds strong characters.

We are of course delighted that so many of our students have been successful, continuing into full time professional dance colleges. Colleagues on many occasions have asked how so many of our students have gained scholarship into full time colleges. I can only assume this is due to the following reasons. Whilst we are a Performing Arts School we have always encouraged our students to attend a ballet class. Counterpoint has a strong classical background. Of course attending classes may well be a ‘just a hobby' for a student, but teachers at Counterpoint take their jobs seriously.

Educating students to realise the importance of classical technique, from an early age and throughout their training, develops focused, determined students. Compliment this with dedicated teachers and supportive parents, and we have a team that works! Teamwork!

With daughters Miss Helen now head of the Theatre Modern and Miss Amelia head of Classical Ballet, I am no longer teaching as many classes as I have previously. However with each term's new intake of young students, I feel once again a renewed challenge to see them progress. Given time, patience and nurturing our little ducklings turn into such beautiful graceful swans.

It is always a privilege and pleasure to teach dance. My particular passion for Classical Ballet has never wavered. ‘The School of the Future, Your Future!' was our school motto many years ago, and this sentiment hasn't changed. However, as an established school it has now become possible to state the fact that;

‘actions do speak louder than words!'

 Sheila Cunliffe.

Principal & Founder

Counterpoint School of Performing Arts - Approx 1980!!

 Acknowledgements:

To Helen and Amelia

What mother could have dared to dream that one day her two daughters would follow in her footsteps and teach in the school she founded so many years ago! Since moving to Counterpoint in the Uplands much of the school's success can be equally accredited to my daughters. I am proud of their achievements, and delighted they now continue to teach at Counterpoint as Heads of Departments. My mission when opening the school here in the Uplands was to develop a school offering all disciplines under one roof, and to provide a training second to none – training which could be enjoyed both as a hobby or by any aspiring young dancers. I am especially pleased to know that the future success of Counterpoint is secure as my daughters also have that same drive, enthusiasm, and love of teaching which such a mission requires.

My sister Katy

I wish to thank my sister Katy who has previously travelled from Portsmouth regularly to teach our students Musical Theatre and Jazz classes. Miss Kate now has two schools in Portsmouth and still finds time to perform professionally!

To Ann, Linda and Judy

I wish to thank my dear friends and colleagues Ann, Linda and Judy who have been our faithful secretaries and children's matrons for many years - and for always having been most supportive to Counterpoint over the years.

To Swansea College

Thank you to the Principals and staff for giving me the opportunity to develop classes, and to use the facilities at Counterpoint.

To my Teacher

To Miss Fenn, my teacher for 15 years, who inspired the love of ballet from an early age and provided me with many opportunities both in performance and teaching.

To my Parents

I will always be truly grateful to my parents for all their support, and for the many years I was able to attend classes whilst training.

To my son James

For all his technical help, advice and expertise.

Last but not least I wish to thank my dear husband Fred. He has given me nothing but support and every encouragement for over 25years. Without him none of this would have been possible.

Sheila Cunliffe