About

Alison – Founder of Swan Pilates & Dance

Hello! I’m Alison, a passionate and experienced teacher dedicated to helping people of all ages build strength, balance and confidence in their bodies. With a lifelong love of movement and a background in classical ballet training at the Royal Academy of Dance in London, I blend the principles of classical ballet with Pilates and body conditioning techniques to create classes that are both effective and enjoyable.

Whether you’re looking to improve posture, prevent injury, return to movement after a break, or simply enjoy some mindful time for yourself, there’s a class for you here. I offer:

• Mat-based Pilates and body conditioning for core strength, mobility, alignment and overall wellbeing
• Ballet classes for adults – beginners and those returning after a break
• Classes for teachers and school staff, focusing on stress relief and postural health
• 1:1 sessions for Pilates or ballet

All classes are designed with care and creativity, drawing on years of teaching experience and ongoing professional training, including my VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Mat-Based Pilates.

My qualifications

• BA(Hons) in the Art and Teaching of Ballet (3 years spent immersed in technique, musicality and the art of teaching)
• LRAD – Licentiate of the Royal Academy of Dance
• Associate of the Royal Academy of Dance and Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing
• OCR Level 2 Certificate in Teaching Mat-Based Pilates
• VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Mat Based Pilates.
• First Aid at Work

Come as you are

My classes are small and friendly and designed to help you move better and feel better! I’ve taught a wide range of clients – from absolute beginners to lifelong dancers – and I’m especially interested in helping people feel stronger, calmer and more balanced in everyday life.

My teaching style

Whether we’re on the mat or at the barre, I teach with a focus on:

• Alignment and technique – helping you move safely and effectively
• Progressive learning – building strength, control and confidence over time
• Creativity and care – every class is thoughtfully planned with your body in mind
• Supportive encouragement – no pressure, no judgement, just real progress at your pace.

A little more about me:

• I’m based in the beautiful South West of England in Devon
• I have two naughty cats but two better behaved children!
• Outside of teaching I love walking, sea swimming (sometimes even in the Winter!), reading and – of course – ballet and Pilates – Ballet remains a lifelong passion of mine so I continue to attend regular classes. And yes, I still wear my pointe shoes…even if my feet don’t thank me for it!
• My philosophy: Movement isn’t just about how it looks – it’s about how it makes you feel!