James Montgomery AISTD, AIDTA, SDip

I started dancing at the age of 10 and have never looked back. Now, 15 years later and I’m still in love with dance, it is, without a doubt, my passion. I really do “Live to Dance, Dance to Live”.

For 5 years now I have been teaching children and adults all sorts of dancing for fun, exercise and the wonderful social aspect. I enjoy teaching Latin American, Ballroom, Salsa, Street Dance, Freestyle/Disco, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Cheerleading and Linedancing.

For the 4 years that I taught the Formation Team at Angela’s School Of Dancing I enjoyed the challenge of chereographing such a large, telented group, taking them onto performances in London’s West End at Her Majesty’s Theatre.

I am a professional member of both the Imperial Society for Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) and the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA).  I have the pleasure of teaching dancing 7 days a week, both privately and in classes. I also hold A-Levels in Dance and Performing Arts, and recently gained my Salsa Diploma with the IDTA in October 2008.

I look forward to passing on my passion and love for dance to our students and watching them shine, be it in their exams, shows or classes.

Chris Bates AIDTA SDip, CYQ Exercise To Music

I have been dancing since I was young and I am experienced in Ballroom, Latin American, Salsa, Freestyle/Disco, Linedancing, Cheerleading and Street Dancing. I thoroughly enjoy Salsa and Latin, and I have performed in a Salsa/Mambo display with other members of staff from SimplyDance at the NEC in Birmingham. I also have a passion for Freestyle dance as it allows dancers to interpret the music with creativity.

I am a qualified member of the IDTA (International Dance Teachers' Association) and a qualified CYQ Exercise to Music Instructor . I am currently furthering my training with the ISTD (Imperial Society for Teachers of Dancing).

I am also an avid horseman and hold a BTEC National Diploma in Equine Studies and the British Horse Society - BHS AI certificate.

I love to teach and I want to encourage fun and fitness through dance for everyone.

Natalie Rogers AIDTA

I also took A-Level Dance which encompassed many different skills and styles such as; Contemporary Technique, Break Dance infused with Ballet, Street Jazz, Classical Indian Temple Dance (Bharata Natyam) and more.

Jo Cagney AIDTA

I have been dancing since 1990 and still enjoy it as much as I did all those years ago. I have taken examinations in Latin American, Freestyle(Solo, Pairs and Formation Team), Rock 'n' Rolland Linedancing.

I have also had numerous opportunities to perform on both the local stage and some top London theatres such as The London Palladium. I am a member of my University Dance Society and perform frequently on union nights and in shows. I recently choreographed a showpiece and have been asked to do more, which is an exciting challenge.

In July 2008 I took my Freestyle Associate Teacher Exam and now enjoy the responsibility of  teaching various classes, including those here at SimplyDance.

Currently I am studying French and German at Royal Holloway University. Although this is a world away from dance, I love the fact that I can still be involved whilst living away from home, not only for the exercise and enjoyment, but also for the friendly atmosphere and great social aspect.

Sandie Bates

I am an Ofsted Child Care Inspector and have been working for Ofsted since transferring to the newly formed Early Years Inspectorate in 2001. For the 10 years prior to that, I fulfilled the same role under the auspices of Surrey County Council’s Social Services Department. I played an active part on the committee of Manorcroft Nursery, have chaired the Egham Mother and Baby Club and spent 7 years as the assistant Beaver Scout Leader at 1st Egham.

I am married to Simon and your chief instructor, Christopher, is our younger son. Your principal James also shares our home. My spare time is committed to supporting my extended family in their various careers, which includes SimplyDance.

My role in the business is managing the front of house duties, such as the reception desk and the refreshments counter, alongside Simon. My hobbies (when there is time for them!) include horse riding (and acting as groom for Christopher!), taking long walks with my dog and caravanning with “him indoors”.

Sharon Montgomery

I am the mother of the Principal, James who is the youngest of my 3 boys. From the age of 10, I have supported James through all the trials and tribulations of his dance career, culminating in SimplyDance. At SimplyDance you will normally find me behind the counter of the ‘SimplyDance Shop’ but I also help with the IT and bookkeeping and other front of house duties.

I have had a varied career which has included Banking, Gas Servicing and I currently work full time as an Executive Assistant at IBM.

Outside the family my hobbies include; visiting the gym (when there’s time), walking, reading, looking after my 4 grandchildren and dancing.

Simon Bates

I am a secondary school teacher of 35 years experience, most of which has been in the London Borough of Hounslow, but the last 5 years in the Royal Borough of Kingston.

I have been a Cub Scout Leader at 1st Egham and also a governor of Manorcroft School in Egham. I also hold a Diploma in Guidance and Counselling.

I am secretary for the Virginia Water and District Branch of the RNLI and am a member of the Institute of Advanced Motorists.

I am married to Sandie and am Christopher’s dad. My role in supporting SimplyDance is in the front of house duties and acting as photographer, barman and ‘handy man’ for any display material required.