Stepping into the spotlight
Advice from Alessandra Bushnell
on inheriting a dance school
Alessandra (Ali) Bushnell
Alessandra (Ali) Bushnell
When Leigh Bushnell passed away, her daughter Alessandra (Ali) found herself not only grieving but also leading Mandaleigh Studios in Fareham, the school her mother had built from scratch in 1978.
In this candid interview, Ali shares practical advice for ISTD teachers who find themselves running a school – whether through inheritance or acquisition – and how to honour a legacy while forging your own path.
Above: Ali Bushnell (left) with her late mother, Leigh Bushnell outside the theatre before their show in 2022
Above: Ali Bushnell (left) with her late mother, Leigh Bushnell outside the theatre before their show in 2022
Learning from the best
Ali Bushnell holds DDE qualifications in Imperial Ballet, Tap and Modern, and a Licentiate Tap. Her mother, Leigh, was a Fellow of the ISTD and RAD, and an Imperial Classical Ballet examiner until 1999.
Above: Leigh Bushnell with her pas de deux teacher, John Raven
Above: Leigh Bushnell with her pas de deux teacher, John Raven
Learning from the best
Ali Bushnell holds DDE qualifications in Imperial Ballet, Tap and Modern, and a Licentiate Tap. Her mother, Leigh, was a Fellow of the ISTD and RAD, and an Imperial Classical Ballet examiner until 1999.
Above: Leigh Bushnell with her pas de deux teacher, John Raven
Above: Leigh Bushnell with her pas de deux teacher, John Raven
Above: Leigh Bushnell when she was at Bush Davies
Above: Leigh Bushnell when she was at Bush Davies
"We were a team – a double act. She had so much experience and wisdom."
Ali began teaching alongside her mum 15 years ago. "I always took on her advice, constructive criticisms and hints and tips. I wish there had been more time to go through exercises or syllabus elements, but I know I have Mum with me every day, guiding me."
Advice for teachers taking over a school
Ali’s experience offers valuable insights for ISTD teachers stepping into leadership roles:
1. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
“Sometimes we feel like we’re the only ones going through something, but someone else will have experienced it too.”
Ali emphasises the importance of reaching out – to trustees, fellow teachers, or mentors. “As a charity, we have a board of trustees, and their support has been amazing.”
2. Honour the school’s values
“Continue to carry forward the values of your school and be confident in your abilities.”
Whether the school was built by a parent or purchased from another teacher, Ali recommends observing how things were done and preserving what worked.
“I watched Mum run Mandaleigh for as long as I can remember. Her standards were high – correct uniform, grooming, punctuality, and ending every class with reverence.”
3. Be inclusive and adaptable
Mandaleigh has long been known for its inclusive ethos.
“Mum has taught children with Down syndrome, children who are deaf or have a hearing impairment, children with limb difference, dyspraxia, and other developmental or neurodivergent conditions.”
“Everyone is welcome at Mandaleigh and provisions will be made so everyone has the chance to dance."
Ali continues this legacy, running disability dance groups and outreach workshops in the community.
4. Build a supportive team
“We have a wonderful team of teachers and trustees who’ve been my lifesavers.”
Ali stresses that running a school is not a solo endeavour.
“You need people around you who understand your vision and can help carry it forward.”
5. Keep the joy alive
Not every student will go on to vocational training, and that’s okay.
“Dance should be a happy memory,” Ali says.
"When our students tell their children or grandchildren about their dancing days, we want those stories to be full of joy."
Balancing legacy and innovation
Ali is committed to maintaining Leigh’s standards while also evolving the school. “I hear her voice coaching me through the ballet syllabus,” she says. “But I also want to bring my own ideas and energy.”
Mandaleigh Studios, now a registered charity, has expanded its reach through community projects, disability dance groups, and fundraising for causes like The Rainbow Centre and food banks.
"Success requires hard work. Don’t give up at the first hurdle."
Final thoughts for ISTD teachers
Ali’s journey is both personal and professional. Her advice is rooted in experience, resilience, and a deep love for dance education.
"You’re not alone. There’s always someone who’s been through it before. Ask questions, lean on your team, and trust yourself."
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