A former primary school teacher is preparing to launch new dance classes for babies and young children across York and Selby this September.
Jasmin Panayi, who moved to York from Brighton several years ago, is opening classes at venues in Selby, Easingwold and Wigginton after completing training to run the local babyballet programme.
The classes will cater for children aged from six months to six years, with a focus on introducing youngsters to movement and music while helping them develop confidence, coordination and social skills.
Jasmin has danced since the age of two and is also a trained primary school teacher. Much of her career has involved working with young people, including roles focused on supporting and empowering girls through education.
She said:
I've danced since I was two years old and absolutely love it. Dance has played such a huge part in making me who I am today. Becoming a babyballet franchisee felt like the perfect opportunity to combine everything I'm passionate about.
The new venture has been almost a year in the making, with Jasmin undertaking training and preparing the three local venues ahead of the September launch.
I wanted to make sure it was the right time for me. I've loved the training process. There has been so much to learn and take in, but it's been fascinating to finally understand the ins and outs of running a babyballet franchise.
For Jasmin, the move brings together her experience in education with a lifelong interest in dance and child development.
She said she was particularly looking forward to meeting families from across York and Selby as the first classes get underway.
I'm so excited to bring the babyballet magic to York and Selby, meet families and start classes. I know there will be challenges that come with starting my own business, but I'm incredibly passionate about what I'm doing, and I know it's exactly what I want to be doing.
Classes are due to begin from September at Staynor Hall Community Centre in Selby, Easingwold Scout Centre and Wigginton Recreation Hall.
Jasmin added:
For me, babyballet is about so much more than teaching dance steps. It's about creating a space where children can be themselves, feel proud of who they are and have fun while learning new skills.
