Our Team

It is with the deepest loyalty and respect for my dear friend, Brenda Key, that I remain committed to preserving her passion for dance and the incredible legacy she built.

The Brenda Key School of Dance holds a proud and established place in the heart of North London, and we are honoured to continue serving our community with care, creativity, and commitment.

Building on the strong foundation laid by Miss Brenda Key, our school’s ethos is shaped by; passionate and skilled teachers, a belief in bringing out the best in every child, and supportive, engaged families who share in our journey.

Together, we strive for excellence and uphold the highest standards in dance education that Miss Key championed. More than just steps and technique, our goal is to provide a space where every child feels supported, valued, and inspired to grow, both as dancers and as individuals.

Debbie Van Turenhout - School Manager

Debbie

Amy O'Doherty - Dance Educator

Amy

BA (Hons); PGCE; DDE; LISTD; RAD RTS

Amy began her dance journey at the age of three where she began training extensively in Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Classical Ballet, Modern Theatre, Tap Dance, Jazz, and National Dance. By 18, she had successfully completed all major ISTD examinations with Distinction and was awarded her school’s Most Promising Student honour.

Amy earned a BA (Hons) in Dance Studies, focusing on Drama, Theatre, and Performance Studies, before discovering her true passion for teaching. She subsequently attained ISTD Diplomas in Dance Instruction (DDI) and Dance Education (DDE) across Classical Ballet, Modern Theatre, and Tap Dance. Under expert mentorship, Amy honed her teaching skills, establishing herself as an inspiring and skilled educator.

Since 2010, Amy has been teaching Tap Dance and Modern Theatre at The Brenda Key School of Dance, where she works with students aged 4 to 18. She prepares them for graded and advanced ISTD examinations, choreographs performances, and fosters a strong sense of community charitable events.

Amy holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Primary Education and has earned the ISTD Licentiate qualification in Modern Theatre Dance. She is also a Registered Teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). Committed to continuous professional growth, Miss Amy is passionate about supporting children and young people to reach their full potential in a nurturing, community-focused environment.

Ruby

Ruby Pickles - Ballet Teacher & Dance Enthusiast

BA (Hons) in Fashion Communication with Business Studies

Ruby began her dance journey at The Brenda Key School of Dance at just three years old, training in RAD ballet as well as ISTD tap and Modern Theatre. Alongside dance, she expanded her performance skills through LAMDA musical theatre and drama. Ruby has successfully completed all graded exams and vocational levels, achieving a Distinction at Advanced 2 Tap.

Since the age of 13, Ruby has been a ballet teaching assistant at Brenda Key, learning from experienced and creative teachers, and developing her own teaching style. Her passion lies in inspiring the younger generation to discover the joy of dance.

Graduating with a First-Class degree in Fashion Communication from the University of Brighton, Ruby has also taken on leadership roles outside of Brenda Key, including serving as President of the Brighton Dance Society, where she led students in competitions nationwide.

Miss Ruby is excited to be back at Brenda Key, leading her own ballet classes and encouraging her students to be creative and expressive in their dancing.

Zara

Zara Naeem - Jazz Theatre and Ballet Teacher & Professional Performer

BA (Hons) in Theatre Dance - Musical Theatre

Zara began her dance training at The Brenda Key School of Dance at the age of four, successfully completing all graded exams in RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap Dance, and Modern Theatre, as well as vocational levels. Alongside dance, she trained in singing and acting, developing a well-rounded performance skill set.

Pursuing dance as a career, Zara earned a full-time place at London Studio Centre, one of the UK’s leading professional theatre colleges, where she graduated with a BA (Hons) in Theatre Dance, specialising in Musical Theatre.

Zara made her professional West End debut in November 2021 at the London Coliseum as a cast member in the new musical Rumi. She is also a cast member in the acclaimed revival of The Lord of the Rings: A Musical Tale.

Now back at Brenda Key, Miss Zara is excited to teach jazz theatre, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm to inspire the next generation of performers.

Julia Clarke - Senior Ballet Teacher & Mentor

ARAD and Life Member

Mrs Clarke is a highly respected member of the teaching team at The Brenda Key School of Dance, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to dance education. She plays a vital role in mentoring our advanced ballet students, specialising in teaching RAD Grades 6 and above.

Known for her expert knowledge, thoughtful guidance, and supportive approach, Mrs Clarke is dedicated to nurturing each dancer’s technique, confidence, and artistry. Her passion for teaching and unwavering dedication to her students make her an invaluable part of our school community.

OUR TEAM