A DORSET dance academy, that kept students dreams alive during lockdown, has won recognition in an international competition.

Steppin’ Out Academy in Poole came third in the prestigious Dance School of Year awards, which attracted entries not only across the UK, but also from around the globe.

Their bronze award recognised the efforts the school made to keep dance lessons and competitions going in the virtual world of Zoom during the lockdown and its constant investment into training young people.

Steppin’ Out, now in its 29th year, also won praise for consistently high standards, with its students regularly scooping the top prizes at competitions.

Principal and owner, Angela Taylor, said: “I am absolutely thrilled for my wonderful students and staff that we have won this recognition.

“It’s been an incredibly difficult year for our industry, and this award has given us all a real boost.

“We were determined that this lockdown would not stop us dancing and we kept going throughout the crisis in the virtual world.”

Steppin’ Out Academy was founded by dancer and choreographer Angela Taylor in 1991.

It started in a small room in Poole with just two students and grew over the years to include branches in Bournemouth, Ringwood and Sturminster Marshall.

In 2014 it opened its own purpose-built studios in Hamworthy and today has 140 students, aged two to 18.

A virtual awards ceremony was held live online via You Tube.