About Us
Welcome to Turning Pointe Dance, a ballet-focused dance school, located in Kerikeri.
Our mission is to ignite a passion for dance and make it accessible to everyone in our community. Here, dance is more than just movement: it's a transformative journey of self-discovery. In our supportive studio environment, students learn valuable life skills such as collaboration, determination, and resilience that will empower them in all aspects of life,
both on and off the stage.
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Our Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) classes focus on building strong foundations in physical skills, technique, creativity and musicality. Designed for dancers of all levels, these sessions enhance skills and boost confidence while fostering a deep appreciation for the art of ballet.​
Our Team
Abbie Jennings
Hi, I'm Abbie Jennings. I am the current lead teacher at Turning Pointe Dance. I am originally from Whangarei, where I trained in the art of ballet and contemporary for over 15 years. I completed my final RAD exam in 2020 and afterward took on the opportunity to become a registered teacher with the RAD.
I have now completed the two year Certificate of Ballet Teacher Studies with the Royal Academy of Dance. This period of study has allowed me to branch out my knowledge in the art of dance, and has given me the ability to pass on the knowledge I have gained to the students I have taught.
My passion for teaching began at 12, when I would do volunteer teaching with younger students. I have always enjoyed working alongside people who have the same passion and love for dance.
I cannot wait to see what this year has to offer our students at Turning Pointe Dance.
Emmalee Ferris
Hey, my name is Emmalee and I am the student teacher at Turning Pointe Dance! I started dance at the age of three and have had a love for it ever since. Now I am 15 years old and I am working towards sitting my RAD Advanced 1 exam. I have been lucky enough to travel all over the country to train and grow as a dancer. I regularly travel to Auckland to train at the Papilio Atilier - Friday School and I have also previously trained at the Annelise Gilbert Academy in Christchurch and Dance Masters International - Intensive Training Program. I now hope to inspire and nurture the next generation of dancers and show them the beauty of ballet.
Nikki Ferris
I am the founder of Turning Pointe Dance and have always had a deep appreciation for dance, even though I was unable to take classes while growing up in rural Northland. My daughter started dancing at the age of three and has continued to thrive in her passion for 13 years.
I have founded Turning Pointe Dance to ensure that every child in our diverse Mid North community has the ability to attend dance classes and find joy in doing so.