Empowered the children
Working with Rachel was an absolute joy! What made it most magical was the way she made sure that all of the children we able to feel confident to take risks and have a go at things that were new to them. Rachel empowered the children and it was so fantastic how so many came out of their shell and thrived. Our children at Raddlebarn have worked with other performing arts specialists, but honestly, none have met the standards that Rachel set for them and nobody has put the children truly at the heart of the learning like Rachel did. I know that the children will be talking about those memories for the rest of their lives! Highly, highly recommended!!! 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Angela Lowry - Headteacher
We would highly recommend these sessions to any school looking to foster their children’s love for the performing arts in a supportive and dynamic environment.
Rachel facilitated a block of Dance, Sing, Act sessions in our school for boys from Junior Infants to Second Class.
We were delighted by the inclusive atmosphere created by Rachel. She ensured that every boy felt welcomed and valued, regardless of their skill level or prior experience. This nurturing environment allowed the boys to truly shine and build their confidence throughout the sessions.
Rachel used a variety of methodologies during the sessions which engaged the boys. From energetic dance routines to engaging vocal exercises and fun acting games, there was never a dull moment! Rachel did a fantastic job of keeping the boys excited and engaged while also introducing them to new skills and techniques.
As a staff, we appreciated how the sessions were specifically tailored to our class levels as well as considering the needs and preferences for our special class. Whether a boy was a beginner or more advanced, there was something for everyone to learn and enjoy.
The boys thoroughly enjoyed their block of sessions with Rachel. We would highly recommend these sessions to any school looking to foster their children’s love for the performing arts in a supportive and dynamic environment.
Belgrove Junior Boys’ School, Dublin 3
Belgrove Junior Boys’ School Dublin 3
A fantastic day
The children really enjoyed Ailbhe's workshop and learned some great new dances. She had an excellent manner, great discipline but always humorous and enthusiastic and judged each class's Irish language ability and responded as needed. A fantastic day, would highly recommend DSA.
Paschal O’Sullivan - Principal
Passion for enriching the lives of young people
Rachel worked at Birmingham Hippodrome from 2018 to 2019 as a Learning Officer in our Learning & Participation Team. This involved working with schools across Birmingham, delivery high-quality performing arts workshops connected to the curriculum and our programme at the theatre. Rachel has an eye for detail and a passion for enriching the lives of young people. I’d highly recommend
Zaylie Wilson - Head of Learning and Participation
Supporting local community events
Having worked with Rachel for a number of years, I have witnessed first hand a truly inspirational teacher, dancer and colleague. Rachel forms good relationships with her students and adapts her teaching to suit the needs of her pupils. Her lessons are engaging and demonstrate clear progression of the skills she has taught. She has great initiative and always maintains a high level of professionalism. Rachel holds a lot of experience working with children and young adults in different capacities, involving herself and supporting local community events. She is always a pleasure to work with!
Laura Chesworth - Centre Director
Louise Greene - Deputy Principal
Rachel visited our school last August during our ‘return to school’ Summer camp. This camp was a new initiative for children in DEIS schools who receive learning support and those who have additional learning needs.
She brought a beautiful energy and enthusiasm to her work and instantly established a great rapport with the children. There were 24 children in total aged between 7 and 12 and Rachel catered for all their needs in one afternoon, pitching routines and material that even had all the teachers joining in too!
Whether we were outside or inside in the hall, nothing phased her and Rachel’s positivity, energy and upbeat demeanour motivated all who took part in her class. I would highly recommend her to all schools for both children and staff. Her classes were fun, invigorating and had a very positive impact on all of our wellbeing.
Seachtain na Gaeilge
Our children had a fantastic time with Blathnaid during Seachtain na Gaeilge. The workshops were delivered at an age appropriate level and all children were able to participate and learn cúpla focail. Most importantly of all, they had great fun and really enjoyed the day!
Katy Judge - Teacher