837 Design courses in Ely

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Our Team Building Programmes are 'simply excellent' (quote from Unilever). They always deliver much greater energy' motivation and efficiently accelerates to a galvanised, integrated team for their Manager/Team Leader. They're great fun and very commercially orientated - the best of both key elements to a successful and long-lasting high performance team. A successful company is always made up of successful teams. Teams that can work autonomously with a clearly defined set of goals, roles, vision, responsibility and culture will always reach for and achieve far greater success than a team that works just as a group of individuals. Our team building solutions are individually built and geared towards teams at any level within an organisation, providing an independent and objective perspective to promote a common purpose such as the creation of a 'high performance team'. Out With The Old Traditionally, team building events have been restricted to certain levels of management where they head off site for a bit of archery, quad biking and paintballing or something along those lines. Then over some coffee and cocktails, business plans and more efficient ways to work are casually discussed. Whilst being out having fun instead of being at work may improve an individual person's mood, the effect will only be short-term, and will not go far in creating permanent and cohesive teams who are able to overcome challenges together and drive the business forward when back in the workplace. In With The New Today's business thinking is more strategic and certainly has to look for returns on the investment. That is why Dickson Training Ltd's team building programmes are bespoke and built to your requirements through research, understanding your business and, most importantly, what results and achievements you are looking to get out of the programme. Once "what success looks like" has been established, we create tasks and activities that will test your leadership, problem solving, communication and team work skills. When the tasks have been completed, the learning - both practical and theory - is debriefed to the group as well as how it will translate back in your business. Not only are our events great fun, but they provide participants with learning points they can act upon to improve or enhance the working practices/environment. Team Building That Gets Results We have a highly innovative team who design team builds to suit all budgets and time or space restrictions. Large or small, we will develop the perfect event to meet your commercial objectives, keeping in line with your values and company culture. More recently we have combined team galvanising events with ways to engage the participants with and support their local communities. This solution has proved extremely popular with our clients and we are continuing to develop more and more programmes doing exactly this. " Phil did everything in a very professional and focused manner, without losing sight of the overall aims or having 'fun'. When I moved to Airbus UK and subsequently European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS), I had no hesitation in recommending Phil and the team to deliver the required training and team events.  Without doubt Phil and his team are excellent providers of training, to suit even bespoke requirements, and I would not hesitate in recommending the team to any business in the future. " Glenn Brown, Systems & Expertise Manager, Airbus Personnel Service Augmented Skills – an Essay by Phil Dickson All of you, who are reading this, and all the people you meet and work with will have – ‘Augmented Skills’. So – if you are an IT Engineer or a Pharmacist; perhaps you are, or know, a Departmental Leader and you work with a Logistics Project Manager; these roles will demand core skills, whether they be technical know-how or qualifications in the discipline. But to be that bit better; more reliable; more effective & productive and therefore more valuable and, frankly, marketable – capitalizing on ‘Augment Skills’ comes into play. The I T Engineer who was a Chess Champion at Uni, which would indicate that they possess some key ‘Augmented skills’ including how they plan 3 steps ahead and are always prepared for the unexpected. The Pharmacist, who is a keen sportsperson in their private life, will likely be tenacious, team-orientated and disciplined – again these are superb qualities to have in this – or any – role. Your colleagues, as well as yourself, will have ‘Augmented Skills’ that will be an asset if only they are explored and applied to their role and indeed, career. Everyone has their own 'Super-power' If they love gardening, they are probably strategic, patient and inclined to research; if they cook or bake, they are usually well organized and comfortable with multi-tasking. A big reader will tend to be considered and possess good critical thinking faculties, and an amateur mechanic or keen DIY person will often be practical, resourceful and very determined. I have observed that many new Parents discover they have ‘Augmented Skills’ they didn’t know they had... such as getting order out of chaos and displaying industrial amounts of patience and good grace when they really do not feel like it. They very often become far more compassionate and empathetic. Most people have their very own ‘Superpower’. Invite your team members to offer their ‘Augmented Skills’ to your work-place – and just watch as it elevates the motivation levels and improves results. It’ll be very rewarding for all concerned – and for meeting the Team’s objectives, to encourage the person who is a talented artist to be a sounding board on some of the marketing imagery and layouts; for the team member who is great at Maths or resolving crosswords to be asked for their input to solving a problem that is causing logistical or operational headaches. Never exploit a Team member’s unique special skills at their expense I would like to stress, however, that it must never be an area where a team member gets exploited by harvesting their unique special skills to coerce them into taking on greater responsibilities and tasks without providing them with the commensurate salary and status. To do so would be immoral and, ultimately, counter-productive as it would lead to resentment and disenfranchisement. This is about encouraging people’s capability and inviting their input to boost confidence and enhance the team’s capability. Often, we need to be more than what our Job Description says It is also important to highlight that whatever a person’s role or function is – they will definitely need to have additional capabilities to be effective. The best example of this is when we designed and delivered a range of ‘Advanced Customer Care skills’ training sessions for the Met Office a few years ago…we met so many remarkably super-bright Meteorologists, many of whom were having to make significant adjustments to answering questions from Customers that seemed to be illogical and often, obtuse. It wasn’t enough for these Meteorologists to be highly skilled at interpreting data and identifying patterns – they needed ‘Augmented skills’ to make that information accessible to members of the public (and Council workers and Air Traffic controllers and Shipping agents) and many other people, as to what that particular weather system was going to be like in their area and at what time. They have to know how to ‘de-jargonise’ the material and provide succinct, clear, and yet temperate, descriptions without ever appearing exasperated, impatient or judgmental in response to sometimes quite silly questions. For a highly trained scientist – that can be counter-intuitive. Being Philosophical... and a wee bit pretentious At the risk of being a little Philosophical (and probably a wee bit pretentious) – in my own role of Trainer – my core skills have to include – being a very good communicator, an active listener and have innovative and engaging ways to convert an idea, or a model, into practical application that my Delegates and Clients gain tangible benefits from. This is how it applies to me... I really enjoy composing short, light classical-style piano pieces. Now, to do this well, you need to be able to find a transition from one chord or melody to a different theme or key. It has to be worked out very carefully to have incremental transitions and pleasant-sounding developments as the piece unfolds. I think I have become better at this as I have honed my skills as a composer. But I have realized that these very same skills have ‘Augmented’ my ability to help a Manager, or a Team, move from a state of conflict; tension; disfunction; disenfranchisement; lack of confidence to a place that is more harmonious with far greater productivity. The very same process of careful listening, considering options, taking well-considered steps, having a creative, sometimes brave, move towards a resolution are at play in both Training and Piano Compositions! Scheduled Courses Unfortunately this course is not one that is currently scheduled as an open course, and is only available on an in-house basis. Please contact us for more information.

Our self-leadership and executive development programme can be fully ITA SDS funded supporting leaders and business owners and creating a growth plan. SDS INDIVIDUAL TRAINING ACCOUNTS (ITA) Rely On Our Team for Your Executive Development The Power Within Training offers unrivalled executive development training for go-getters and self-starters throughout England and Scotland. Did you know that approximately 55% of people making their living in sales don’t have the right skills to be successful? Good sales skills are some of the rarest and most sought-after skills in the workforce. Whether you’re running a business, looking to progress further in your career or want to sharpen your skills before returning to work, our self-leadership training will help you develop the skills you need to succeed. After completing our executive development training, you’ll have a sales mindset and the skills to secure your ideal role, perform better, and utilise high-payoff action-planning techniques. Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more information. OUR TRAINING SOLUTIONS What is Self-Leadership Executive Training? Self-Leadership Development Our self-leadership development course was designed to give you total control of your career, business, and professional life. Most professionals will spend more than 80% of their time at work or in business. We’ve structured our executive training to help those looking to enhance their career prospects or business success by taking advantage of our unique Motivational Intelligence seven steps to success framework. The seven-step success system will take you through a journey of self-discovery, self-awareness, and self-development, which enables you to understand the barriers and self-limiting obstacles that have been holding you back. The Power Within’s self-leadership training will guide you through overcoming these barriers and eliminating them from your life. If you are looking to stand out from the crowd and build a career or business you can be proud of, then this live classroom-based programme is definitely for you. Benefits of Self-Leadership Development The self-leadership training has been designed from the ground up to inspire, guide, and develop you into not only achieving your goals but being able to measure success in your career, help you find your dream job, and help make an immediate impact in everything you do. Completing our executive leadership development course will allow you to utilise emotional intelligence to get the best of your team while focusing on clear values and principles that increase your overall success and profitability. Working on your self-leadership skills will grant you greater insight into the factors hindering or impacting your success while giving you the tools to make decisions and get into action. Here are some additional benefits of our self-leadership training: Build Awareness – When you’re a leader, you must inspire and motivate people to achieve and go after the bigger picture for your organisation. You’ll need an effective and flexible leadership style to ensure your team succeeds. We’ll help you discover your leadership style and how you can use it effectively to the advantage of your business. Increase Team Engagement, Motivation, and Accountability – How can you expect your team to behave if you’re no longer motivated to succeed? The Power Within will give you the tools to keep striving toward success while ensuring your business is focused and motivated. Cultivating a High-Performance Culture – The right high-performance culture installs peak performance into every team member. Through our executive development, you’ll be able to help each reach their targets while they look for ways to improve constantly. Develop Strategic Skills – We’ll help you develop leadership skills and self-improvement goals, allowing you to introduce changes to your business based on your guiding visions while encouraging others to share the same vision. If you are looking to stand out from the crowd and build a career or business you can be proud of, then this live classroom-based programme is definitely for you. What Are the Key Skills Learned from Executive Development Training One of the first sets of vital skills for self-leadership you’ll learn is the ability to stop, step back, and reflect on the things that trigger us to react. When we react, we’re being controlled by the trigger. Another skill we’ll help instill is to consider intention. Intention is important to us, such as our values and what we’re trying to achieve. When you become intentional, you start to live a life of choice. Self-leadership and executive development are a journey. The more self-leadership we attain, the more successful we’ll become. The more successful we become, the more self-leadership we need. Here are some additional critical skills you’ll learn from our self-leadership training: Self-Awareness – It’s vital to hone your ability to see yourself as clearly as you are. This skill takes dedication, introspection, and mindfulness. Also, a dose of self-awareness helps with self-control, self-confidence, and feelings of validation. Overall, you should be open to critique and accountability. Goal Setting – A good self-leader must be proactive in not only identifying their goals but how to reach those goals in a manageable manner. Our executive development training will teach you how to break down a larger goal into more attainable steps to avoid burnout while helping you celebrate smaller milestones. Self-Motivation – A classic way to handle self-motivation is to divide long-term goals into smaller, more attainable ones. This optimization means recognising what about the goal that appeals to you, then forming a strategy that aligns with your strengths and values toward that goal. Constructive Thought Patterns – Through our leadership skills and self-improvement course, you’ll be able to review your performance and assess your intentions and effectiveness while providing an opportunity to ensure your strategies are geared towards success. This is done by focusing on improving strengths and the mental imagery of yourself that recognizes your capacity to grow, develop, and change. Self-leadership training teaches you to see yourself as having the ability to create, improvise, innovate, and adapt. OUR LIVE WORKSHOPS ARE BACK What’s Covered in Our Executive Development? Self-Leadership "It's a mindset thing" When you undergo our self-leadership training, you’ll experience several modules designed to allow your conscious and subconscious belief systems to work together for a predetermined goal or set of outcomes. Self-leadership is one skill that will significantly impact your career, team, and even your life’s happiness. Our executive leadership development course promotes bold and powerful decisions to get you back into the driver’s seat of your life and make the best of each day by setting goals, shifting your mindset, and finding your purpose. During each module, we’ll work with you and help you design and deliver your team leadership programmes catered to your team and your business dynamic. Our goal is to allow you to evolve into a bigger and better leader. Here are some of the modules in our self-leadership training: Unleash Your True Potential Create Your Personalised 7-Step Success Framework Peak Performance and Self-Mastery Growth Mindset and Mindset Performance The Power of Feedback Taking Back Control of Your Personal & Professional Journey Goal Setting & Defining If you are looking to stand out from the crowd and build a career or business you can be proud of, then this live classroom-based programme is definitely for you. Discover Who’s Leading Our Self-Leadership Training James Fleming, the co-creator of The Power Within, will lead your self-leadership training. James founded The Power Within with his wife, Enas Fleming. They wanted to inspire people around the world to think better, be better and achieve more. James believes that everyone can be whatever they set their minds to. Founding The Power Within allowed James to turn that deep knowledge into a business that helps others think bigger, better, and achieve more daily. He strives to give leaders the tools and knowledge to achieve their full potential while increasing their self-confidence and self-belief through Motivational Intelligence Revolution. James wants to support today’s businesses to become tomorrow’s leaders. Course Overview Our self-leadership development course is a quick-paced training that is between eight and twelve hours in length. After you attend the face-to-face workshops, you’ll be given access to our online self-leadership training portal. This allows you to continue your journey of self-development by ensuring you’ll always have a system and process to fall back on when you need it. One of the best parts of our executive development course is that you receive this information fully funded. Even if you aren’t eligible for funding, you can still invest in this course and begin a new chapter of professional development for yourself. Elevate yourself if any of our eligibility requirements apply and you early less than 22,000 a year.

Tiny toes ballet offers fun inclusive baby, toddler & kids dance classes that nurture confidence & promote development in Cambridge. Book a two-week trial. Offering award-winning pre-school children's ballet and dance classes from 6 months upwards, our ballet classes for toddlers, 2-year-olds and 3-year-olds up to the age of 7, are carefully designed to introduce the wonders of ballet in a playful and age-appropriate way. With our kids ballet classes and kids dance classes, your child will discover the joy of dancing, while also developing important skills such as coordination, balance, and rhythm.

Every Wednesday at 18:30 – 19:45 Embark on a journey with the RAD Grade 4 program at M&L School of Performing Arts, where students deepen their ballet and character dance exploration within a curriculum that champions artistic expression and technical refinement. Aligned with a higher educational standard, this level mirrors the progression and complexity expected of students ready to embrace more challenging aspects of ballet. Set to an eclectic mix of music that enriches the ballet experience, our Grade 4 classes are designed to advance students’ technical skills, musicality, and performance artistry. As part of this curriculum, students engage in a sophisticated exploration of ballet that encourages them to express themselves with greater confidence and complexity. Through a blend of traditional and character dance, learners are motivated to refine their understanding of ballet, finding a profound sense of achievement and joy in their evolving capabilities. At this pivotal grade, character work becomes more intricate, introducing students to new cultural dances that enhance their technical repertoire and broaden their appreciation for the diversity of dance traditions. This expansion of knowledge and skill not only equips students with a richer set of technical abilities but also fosters a deep appreciation for the art of dance, guiding them toward a path of lifelong engagement and accomplishment in ballet. Why RAD Grade 4 Ballet Lessons Are Key for Your Child’s Development: Physical Fitness: Focused on improving flexibility, strength, and coordination, ballet at this level offers a rigorous approach to physical health and technical agility. Elevated Self-Expression and Confidence: As students master more complex dance sequences, they experience enhanced self-expression and a significant boost in self-confidence. Increased Discipline and Focus: The complexity of Grade 4 routines demands a higher level of discipline, concentration, and attention to detail, preparing students for success in all areas of life. Deepened Musical Appreciation: With a diverse musical selection, students deepen their understanding of rhythm and musicality, enriching their overall dance experience. Fulfillment in Movement Mastery: Emphasizing the precision and elegance of ballet, our curriculum ensures that students find fulfillment in the mastery of each movement. Enhanced Social and Leadership Skills: Group ballet classes encourage not only social interaction but also leadership and teamwork skills, as students often work together to perfect routines. Cultural Exploration and Appreciation: Incorporating a wider array of character dances, Grade 4 enriches students’ cultural knowledge and appreciation for the global dance community. Superior Coordination and Posture: This grade focuses on refining coordination and posture, essential for the development of a poised and graceful dancer. Life Skills for Future Success: Ballet at this level teaches resilience, time management, and goal-setting, equipping students with skills vital for future academic and personal success. Preparation for Ballet Studies: Setting a strong foundation for higher levels of dance education, Grade 4 prepares students for continued growth and achievement in ballet and beyond. Why M&L School of Performing Arts Is Your Choice for Grade 4 Ballet: Choosing M&L School of Performing Arts for Grade 4 ballet means joining a community that is deeply committed to fostering artistic excellence and personal growth. Inspired by our foundational love for dance and music, we provide a supportive environment where students are encouraged to push their boundaries, explore their artistic potential, and celebrate their progress. Here, learners find not just technical training but a nurturing space that honors their journey towards becoming accomplished dancers. Enroll your child in our RAD Grade 4 ballet program, and witness their transformation into confident, expressive, and technically skilled artists. Become part of our story at M&L School of Performing Arts, where every dancer’s dream is nurtured with passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to the art of ballet. Book first lesson here: https://mandlschoolofperformingarts.com/book-first-lesson/

Key Objectives for the Training provision Effective listening to a client's needs and requirements during various stages of the sales process. Engage in meaningful communication with clients, learn to identify challenges and opportunities that relate to the prospects. Overcome the identified challenge. Build long term rapport and establish trust with the prospect throughout the sales process, Ensure continued customer satisfaction that can turn into repeat business. Be able to build rapport with customers or clients. Know the right questions to ask to fully understand the customer or client’s needs without putting on any pressure. Be able to check you have the right information from the customer or client. Be able to match products and services to the customer or client using the information you have gathered. Be able to influence effectively. Know how to stand out from your competitors. Stage 1 – Research the Company’s ‘Value Propositions’ and USP Analysis  Conducting 30 min confidential interviews with a cross-section of the eligible Attendees & the Stakeholders, in order to gain an objective understanding of the various scenarios and clients that the Participants work with. the Company’s ‘Value Propositions’ Unique Selling Points The Customers’ journey(s) The Competition’s offers for analysis and comparisons. From these findings, a carefully calibrated bespoke Programme will be designed and delivered.  Stage 2 - Design the Bespoke 2 x day Course  nd Stage 3 - Delivery of the Course Programme This Programme can be delivered in 2 x consecutive days, or split between 2 – 3 weeks, to make it more ‘work-friendly’ – if required. It is very practical and commercially focussed in approach, with lots of interactive exercises designed to draw out the learning applications via the debriefings. The ‘Real Play’ scenarios on day 2 will be based on specific case studies drawn from the Research findings so that they are authentic to optimise the learning. Individual Action Plans will be captured at the end of each day to be debriefed by the Participants’ respective Line Managers.  Template Programme Day One – Foundation – Strategic Approach Section One – The Principles of Consultative Selling Defining ‘Consultative Selling’ The Company’s ‘Unique Selling Points’ & Value Proposition The Consultative Selling model – the five stages Avoiding appearing ‘pushy’, ‘pressurising’ or ‘talking through the sale’ Section Two –Strategy & Preparation  ‘Buy-Class’ Matrix Strategic plan Template – matching services/products to identified needs & opportunities. Preparing a range of objectives Constants and variables – USP’s Researching key Client/Decision Makers’ priorities, profile & background (LinkedIn etc.) Preparing for potential & likely Objections Section Three – Email etiquette & ‘influencing’ email correspondence.  Email etiquette A.B.S.U.R.D model Clarity and tone – discovery of clients’ needs & motivational factors. Techniques to influence and ‘nudge’. Ensuring the data and content have a ‘gentle’ motivational & appealing message. Top Tips Day Two – Practical Application Section Four – Rapport Building & Effective Communication skills ‘Behaviour Labelling’ techniques – setting a positive tone. Asking Open Questions – gaining a full understanding of the clients’ priorities & expectations. EQ - Inviting opinions; perspectives; experiences – winning confidence. Active Listening – focus and commitment to understand. ‘Reading the room’ – adapting to responses and reactions. Maintaining focus on relevant topics that the Client cares about; carefully consider the opportunities to influence. But NO PRESSURE! Building a ‘bond of trust’ with commitments and authentic, shared values. Section Five – Explaining the Benefits – aligned to the Customers’ Priorities Understanding ‘Why do People Buy?’ Research data analysis. Open questions that lead to understanding the key issues and Clients’ priorities. Avoiding the danger of ‘pressurising’ the Client. Responding to objections effectively, with confidence and sensitivity. Explaining the benefits that are aligned to the Clients’ stated requirements. Making the Data ‘sing’ – memorable takeaways for the Client. Augmented benefits – Brand confidence; Case studies; Warranty; Service; Range; Flexibility etc. in alignment with their stated preferences/requirements Differentials compared to Competitors Section Six – Winning Commitment Inviting commitment – with confidence Consultative Selling Closing techniques (e.g. Alternative Close/Assumptive Close et al) Avoiding ‘talking through the sale’ – knowing when to ‘Shut UP!’ Confirming agreement – ensuring Clients’ motivation for repeat business Section Seven – Practical Application ‘Real Play’ From the Research findings, carefully devised scenarios can be generated to provide the most valuable learning opportunities to underpin all the skills & techniques covered in the Programme.  Potential Real Play scenarios: A well-established customer has indicated that they are soon to be opening up additional new offices – this presents an opportunity to arrange for the Company to support them with their upcoming needs. After some very positive feedback and with the upcoming contract renewal imminent – how can the Company give the Customer more high-quality support in other areas of their business? A Competitor has been to see the client and they have prompted some concerns about ‘value for money’ & ‘quality of service’. How Real Play works… The group is split the group into 2 sub-groups, one with our Professional Actor (option available); the other with the Trainer or a willing Participant. Each group has a brief and has to instruct their Trainer/Actor/Participant on how to approach the scenario supplied. The Actor and Trainer (or willing Participant) perform the role play(s) as instructed by their respective teams; however, during the action they can be paused for further recommendations or direction. The outcome is the responsibility of the team(s) – not the performers. Debrief the full Programme Individual Action Plans - to be followed through. ‘Best Practices’ for application into the business Options for Exercises within the Programme  Sample Exercise – Red & White  There is a specific time managed agenda and itinerary, which puts the group under pressure.  The key challenge is for the sub-groups to maximise the commercial value from the task, however there is always a great danger that the individuals attempt to gain financial progress at the expense of the other group! Debriefing points: Persuasive communication and influence across barriers Gaining buy-in when others are sceptical Strategic planning accounting for others’ behaviours Sample Exercise – Communication Challenge Each Participant has different pieces of information, but are not allowed to share it visually. They are only allowed to communicate to work out the solution hidden among the large amount of data. Debrief: Structured approach Maintaining focus through distractions/interference Active Listening Controlled communication Sample Exercise – Persuasive emails Sample emails are shared to be critiqued and improved upon to be debriefed: Tone & impact Making the Data ‘sing’ Influential & motivational language Customer centric message. Sample Exercise –Juggling   Each Participant has to pass the ‘Customers’ (Juggling balls) carefully through the system with all the other Participants to reach a profitable conclusion  Debrief: EQ to read the room and effectively communicate, when the pressure is on Customer focus and adapting to challenges Devising a plan that wins buy-in Overcoming competing ideas to get to ‘best practice’ Consistent commitment, communication and motivational drivers that influenced performance. Sample Exercise –Critical Path  The group are provided with 30 x discs and some ‘post-it’ notes. (no pens or pencils are allowed) Their brief is to create a grid shape with the 30 x discs, which will act as ‘stepping stones’ for the ‘Critical Path’ But they have to follow the correct order through the grid from the start to finish, which they will have to work out through ‘trial & error’ All of the team must pass through the ‘Critical Path’ worked out on the grid, observing the constraints, within the time limit. No talking is permitted once they start using the materials Debrief: - Clear communication focussing on the ‘client’s journey’ Planning for challenges Identifying risks and mitigating them Role allocations & support Quality control and disciplines  Sample Exercise –Back to Back  Each Participant is positioned back-to-back with a partner. They have to work out precisely what the ‘statement’ given to the other person is without looking around. Each person has a different brief. Debrief: - Asking Open Questions Active Listening Accuracy in identifying the objective.

Every Wednesday at 17:30 – 18:30 (The Stable) or Every Saturday at 11:55 – 12:55 (Exning Community Church Hall) Step into our Grade 1 ballet class at M & L School of Performing Arts, where budding ballet enthusiasts aged 7 and older are invited to deepen their dance journey. This class is a vibrant exploration of the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Ballet curriculum, meticulously designed to enhance technical skill, musicality, and the pure joy of performance across a spectrum of dance styles. Here, students are welcomed into a world where each plié and pirouette is more than a movement—it’s a step towards mastering the art of ballet. Our expert instructors are committed to cultivating each student’s physical fitness, timing, rhythm, and ability to interpret music through dance. With a focus on technique and performance, we prepare our dancers for the exciting opportunity of optional examinations and class awards, fostering a sense of achievement and growth. Joining our Grade 1 ballet class means your child will not only find a fulfilling physical outlet in ballet but will also engage in artistic expression, building bonds with a community of young dance lovers. Enroll today and watch your child’s passion for ballet blossom in a nurturing, inspiring setting. Why Ballet Lessons Are a Leap Forward for Kids Aged 7+ Years: Refined Motor Skills and Coordination: Ballet’s detailed movements refine motor skills, improving balance and coordination. Discipline and Focus: Learning choreography requires discipline, enhancing focus and attention to detail. Physical Fitness: Ballet is a holistic exercise, promoting flexibility, strength, and a healthy lifestyle. Self-Expression and Confidence: Ballet serves as a creative outlet for emotions, with performance opportunities boosting self-esteem. Artistic Appreciation: Children grow a profound appreciation for the arts, enriching their emotional and cultural understanding. Social Interaction: Classes provide a space for friendship and teamwork, vital for social development. Cultural Awareness: Ballet introduces children to diverse cultures and histories, broadening their worldview. Enhanced Posture and Grace: Essential ballet principles teach poise and elegance in movement. Mental Agility: Memorizing routines and understanding dance terms sharpen cognitive abilities. Goal Setting and Achievement: Working towards exams and performances teaches the value of setting and achieving goals. Life Skills: Ballet encourages perseverance, time management, and a strong work ethic, skills valuable beyond the dance studio. Long-Lasting Passion: Ballet often ignites a lifelong love for the arts, with potential pathways to future careers in dance. Why M&L School of Performing Arts Stands Out: M & L School of Performing Arts isn’t just about learning ballet; it’s about embracing a dream sparked by the pure joy and innate dance passion of a child. Founded by Martin and Lwena, our school’s journey from musical performances to ballet teaching reflects a profound commitment to sharing the magic of ballet with young minds. Lwena, inspired by their daughter and certified by the Royal Academy of Dance, alongside Martin, aims to create a legacy of artistic expression and joy in dance. At our school, your child will dive into a world where ballet lessons are a gateway to self-confidence, discipline, and artistic fulfillment. It’s a place where passion meets dedication, and every dancer’s journey is celebrated. Join us and be part of a story where music and dance continue to inspire generation after generation. Book first lesson here: https://mandlschoolofperformingarts.com/book-first-lesson/

Starting a small business can be a rewarding journey, but it requires careful planning and the right strategies to succeed. From creating a solid business plan to organizing finances and finding the right support, this guide will help you establish a foundation for a thriving business. For entrepreneurs in Calgary, key resources like reliable bookkeeping services can make a significant difference. Here’s how to start a small business and set it up for lasting success. Developing a business plan A clear, well-researched business plan serves as a roadmap for your business. It outlines your goals, target market, competitive advantage, and financial projections. This plan will also help attract investors or secure loans. To create an effective business plan: Define your mission and vision: Explain why your business exists and what you aim to achieve. Identify your target audience: Determine who your customers are and what problems your business will solve for them. Analyze competitors: Study your competitors to understand what they offer and find ways to differentiate your business. Set realistic financial projections: Estimate costs, revenue, and profits. This will give potential investors confidence in your business. Choosing a business structure Selecting the right business structure is essential, as it affects your taxes, liability, and daily operations. Common options include: Sole proprietorship: Simple to set up, with minimal paperwork, but offers no separation of personal and business liability. Partnership: Ideal for two or more owners, allowing shared responsibilities, but partners share liabilities. Corporation: Provides liability protection, but involves more paperwork and regulatory requirements. LLC (Limited Liability Company): Offers liability protection without the complexity of a corporation. Choose a structure that best suits your needs, and consult a legal professional to ensure compliance with Calgary’s business regulations. Securing funding Most small businesses require some level of funding to get started. Consider various financing options to find the best fit: Personal savings or family support: Often the first source of funding for many entrepreneurs. Business loans: Many banks offer small business loans with varying interest rates. Grants and government programs: Explore government grants and programs specifically designed to support small businesses in Calgary. Angel investors or venture capital: For businesses with high growth potential, attracting investors may be an option. Registering your business To operate legally, you’ll need to register your business. This process involves choosing a unique name, filing the necessary documents, and obtaining a business license in Calgary. You may also need specific permits depending on your industry. Completing these steps ensures that your business complies with all local regulations. Organizing your finances Managing finances effectively is crucial for any small business. Accurate bookkeeping keeps your business organized, tracks income and expenses, and prepares you for tax season. Many small businesses in Calgary choose to hire a bookkeeper in Calgary to handle these responsibilities, allowing owners to focus on growth. Working with one of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can provide: Accurate financial records: Professional bookkeepers help maintain up-to-date records, which is essential for financial health. Compliance with tax laws: Calgary’s best bookkeeping services are familiar with local tax regulations, ensuring that you file correctly and on time. Insights for decision-making: With accurate records, you can make informed decisions on budgeting, spending, and investments. Creating a strong brand identity Building a brand that resonates with your target audience is essential. Your brand identity includes your business name, logo, colors, and messaging, as well as the experience you offer customers. Developing a consistent brand identity sets you apart from competitors and builds trust with customers. Here are some steps to create a strong brand identity: Design a logo and visual theme: Choose a professional logo, color scheme, and design elements that reflect your brand’s personality. Develop a unique brand voice: Whether it’s friendly, professional, or playful, keep your brand voice consistent in all communications. Focus on customer experience: Aim to provide exceptional service that keeps customers coming back and sharing their positive experiences. Building an online presence In today’s digital world, an online presence is crucial for reaching potential customers. Start by creating a professional website where customers can learn more about your products or services. Next, consider establishing a presence on social media platforms that suit your audience. Key components of a strong online presence include: User-friendly website: Make sure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and includes essential information about your business. Social media profiles: Engage with customers and share updates on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Google My Business: Setting up a Google My Business profile helps customers in Calgary find you more easily. Building a support network Running a small business can be challenging, and having a network of support is invaluable. Surround yourself with people who can provide advice, resources, and encouragement. Consider these ways to build a support network: Join local business associations: Groups like the Calgary Chamber of Commerce offer networking opportunities, resources, and workshops. Seek mentorship: Experienced business owners can offer guidance and insights that help you avoid common pitfalls. Hire professionals for specialized tasks: For financial and legal matters, work with professionals like accountants, lawyers, and bookkeepers. Tracking progress and making adjustments As your business grows, it’s essential to review your progress and adjust your strategies. Regularly assessing financial performance, customer feedback, and market trends can help you refine your approach and stay competitive. Working with one of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can make tracking your financial performance much easier, giving you insight into profit margins, cash flow, and budgeting. Consider these strategies for tracking progress: Set measurable goals: Establish specific goals for growth, such as revenue targets or customer acquisition numbers. Analyze performance data: Use financial statements, sales reports, and customer feedback to assess performance. Stay flexible: Be willing to make changes to products, services, or marketing strategies if they aren’t meeting customer needs. Conclusion Starting a small business takes effort, planning, and ongoing management. By creating a solid business plan, organizing your finances, and developing a strong brand, you can set your business up for success. In Calgary, many new business owners choose to hire a bookkeeper in Calgary to ensure accurate financial management and stay compliant with local regulations. Taking advantage of the best bookkeeping services in Calgary can free up your time, allowing you to focus on growing your business and achieving long-term success. With dedication and the right strategies, your small business can thrive in today’s competitive market.

Every Saturday at 10:25 – 11:10 Embark on a delightful journey into the world of ballet and movement with our specially designed classes, where the magic of storytelling meets the grace of dance. Inspired by the esteemed Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Pre-School Curriculum and further personalized by our dedicated teacher, each session is a gateway to a world where imagination knows no bounds. Imagine a place where each leap and twirl brings the tales of Sleeping Beauty, The Lion King, and other beloved stories to life. Through dance, movement, and expressive facial gestures, our young dancers become the heroes and heroines of their favorite narratives, exploring enchanted forests and distant lands without ever leaving the room. Storybooks come alive, and props become the tools through which audial, visual, and kinesthetic learning are enhanced, sparking imagination and creativity in every child. But it’s not just about the dance; it’s a holistic journey towards building confidence, mastering rhythm, nurturing social connections, and developing both motor and performance skills. These classes are a celebration of childhood wonder, providing a fun, relaxed environment where every child is encouraged to express themselves, connect with others, and discover the joy of movement. Join us, and watch your child dance their way through tales of adventure and magic, developing not just as dancers, but as confident, creative individuals ready to take on the world’s stage. Book first lesson here: https://mandlschoolofperformingarts.com/book-first-lesson/

Every Saturday at 11:10 – 11:55 Step into the enchanting world of our Pre-Primary syllabi, where the dance floor becomes a canvas for young imaginations to soar. This carefully curated program is designed to sculpt the physical prowess, endurance, creative flair, expressive power, and musical sensitivity of our students, all set to the rhythm of captivating musical styles and sounds. It’s here that the foundational steps of ballet blend with the joy of exploration, creating a nurturing yet exhilarating learning atmosphere. Crafted with love, each exercise is a melody of gentle movements, guiding little dancers through the basics of ballet technique within a realm of creativity and play. Our classrooms are alive with a kaleidoscope of props, each playing its part in enriching the learning experience across all dimensions. From the whisper of a scarf in motion to the soft thud of a rhythmic beanbag, every prop tells a story, unlocking new dimensions of movement and imagination. Beyond the steps and stretches, our class holds a treasure trove of opportunities, including the chance for our young dancers to shine in class awards. It’s an invitation to step into the spotlight, not just to showcase their budding talents but to celebrate their journey in dance, expression, and self-discovery. Join us in this magical adventure, where every plié and pirouette is a step towards creating artful expressions, lifelong memories, and a deep-seated love for the beautiful world of ballet. Book first lesson here: https://mandlschoolofperformingarts.com/book-first-lesson/