Meet Our Teachers
Ellen Goulding
Studio Owner and Director
Miss Ellen's dance journey began at the tender age of two under the tutelage of Miss Robina Beard in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs. Upon moving to Port Macquarie, she continued her training with Miss Elizabeth Polson-Galloway. Ellen's dedication to dance was evident early on, earning her a 'Fresh Start Dance Scholarship' at St. Columba Anglican School, where she collaborated closely with Miss Shelly Baker and completed her HSC Dance as an accelerated student. At just 16 years old, Ellen achieved outstanding results, receiving a Band 6 and ranking in the state's top 1%. Her exceptional talent led to nominations for all three of her works for 'Callback' and a notable performance of her Core Performance.
Ellen's achievements extended beyond academics, as she excelled with SCAS Honours Dance Group, earning accolades at the Sydney Eisteddfod and appearing on 'Dance of the Champions.' She was also selected for a televised adagio duo marking the consecration of Australia's first female bishop. Ellen returned to St. Columba as an alumna to conduct workshops for current students.
Post-HSC, Ellen pursued advanced training at Lee Academy, a prestigious performing arts school, earning several qualifications including a Advanced Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance), Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management and Certificate IV in Arts Administration. Her tenure at Lee Academy afforded her invaluable experiences under the mentorship of renowned instructors and choreographers like Jo Cotterill, Juliette 'Jet' Verne, and Keith Hawley. During this time, Ellen also thrived as a member of 'aKrobatiKa,' a celebrated acrobatic and dance company that garnered acclaim on 'Australia's Got Talent.'
Ellen's professional journey encompassed performances in commercial and corporate events across Australia, including notable engagements with The Squared Division and Motif Productions. She contributed to the choreography of Keith Hawley's acclaimed 'Le Freak' and appeared as a cheerleader for the Central Coast Mariners.
Throughout her career, Ellen's true passion remained rooted in teaching. Starting at just twelve years old, she gained extensive experience instructing a diverse range of age groups and genres. Her commitment to teaching was further honed through her Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management, where she collaborated closely with Keith Hawley and Lee Academy faculty to develop her teaching prowess and choreographic style.
Today, Miss Ellen takes immense pride in her role as owner and director of Elite Dance Company. She is dedicated to nurturing a love for dance among her students and equipping them with the skills for successful careers in the industry, should they choose to pursue them.
Katelyn Dwyer-Taylor
Classical Ballet and Technique
With a passion for dance ignited at age 7 under the guidance of Cathy Maxwell at The Dance Academy in Port Macquarie, Miss Katelyn embarked on a journey that has defined her life. Over the years, she competed in various local eisteddfods, excelling in championship categories for Classical Ballet, Modern Expressive/Lyrical, Jazz, and Contemporary styles, with Classical Ballet and Lyrical being her dominant genres.
In 2012, Miss Katelyn began her teaching journey began as an Assistant Dance Teacher. Following a Gap Year, she formally commenced her teaching career in 2016, driven by a deep commitment to dance education. Over the last decade, Miss Katelyn has dedicated herself to achieving a comprehensive set of qualifications, including a Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management, a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, certifications in RAD up to Intermediate and Grade 8 levels, as well as a Diploma of Business, and Leadership & Management.
Miss Katelyn's teaching approach is enhanced by a specialised certification in Progressing Ballet Technique, reflecting her unwavering dedication to the art of ballet. While she did not pursue a professional dance career, her focus remains on instilling a profound love for dance and nurturing student growth.
At Elite Dance Company, Miss Katelyn endeavors to create an environment where students are not only passionate about dancing but also committed to continual improvement. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of technical proficiency while fostering a joyful appreciation for dance's transformative power.
In addition to her role as a dance educator with EDC, she proudly serves as a trainer and assessor for Australian Teachers of Dancing. In this capacity, Miss Katelyn guide students through Certificate III and Certificate IV programs in Assistant Dance Teaching and Dance Teaching and Management, contributing to the next generation of dance educators.
Becoming a first-time mother to her daughter, Ellianna, has profoundly influenced Miss Katelyn's teaching approach, enhancing her empathy and connection with students on a profound level.