14 April 2025
We sat down with Ashley Jacobs, an ISTD-qualified dance teacher and the founder of Art in Motion, to discuss how a moment of observation during a dance class led to a diagnosis for one of her students, Sofia. Thanks to Ashley, Sofia’s scoliosis was spotted early, which had a profound impact on her journey.
Teacher's observation
Ashley has always viewed dance as more than just a way to teach movement. As an ISTD-trained teacher, she believes in understanding each dancer's body and ensuring they practice safely. When Ashley opened her own dance school, Art in Motion, in 2010, her passion for dance was clear, and her commitment to her students' well-being was even clearer.
Ashley's attention to detail in class would lead to a crucial health discovery. One day, during a Grade 1 Modern class, Ashley noticed something about her student, Sofia’s posture.
Discovering the signs
"When she bent forward, her back wasn't aligned properly. Her shoulders were uneven, and one side of her ribs was protruding more than the other. We had been working on her posture for weeks, but this was different. It wasn’t just a typical issue with alignment. I knew something needed further investigation." Ashley recalls.
Ashley spoke to Sofia's mum, Rebecca, after class and suggested they consult a doctor. The signs Ashley had observed were more than just posture-related; they pointed to scoliosis.
Parent's perspective
For Sofia's mum, Rebecca, Ashley’s keen observation meant everything. Without her early intervention, Sofia’s scoliosis might not have been caught.
"If it weren’t for Miss Ashley’s attention to detail, we might not have noticed Sofia’s curve so early,"
Rebecca shares. "It was because Ashley cared so much about Sofia’s well-being and had such an eye for detail that we were able to get a diagnosis early on."
Rebecca also emphasises how dance has helped Sofia gain more than just physical skills.
"Dance has given Sofia so much confidence. She used to be so shy, but now, when she’s on stage, she lights up. She’s become more outgoing and has developed a new sense of self."
Rebecca is grateful that Sofia not only found dance but found a teacher who was dedicated to her safety and progress. "As a parent, knowing Sofia is in such capable hands with a teacher like Ashley is a huge relief,"
"Dance has been such a positive influence on her life, especially in managing her condition."
Mark of quality teaching
With an ISTD-qualified teacher, you can be assured that the teacher will have met professional standards for delivering classes to children. They are committed to creating a safe environment and caring for their students in class. Sofia's story is a perfect example of an ISTD teacher delivering on their duty of care.
Sofia’s journey
As Sofia continues her treatment, Ashley has made adjustments to her teaching to ensure that Sofia’s health and safety come first. For Sofia, dance is more than just a physical outlet; it’s a key part of her journey in managing her condition. Her treatment for the diagnosis includes wearing a CMP back brace for 20 hours a day. Sophia looks forward to studio time as she describes it as where she's at her happiest.
"Miss Ashley has helped me by reminding me how strong and brave I am."
"After the diagnosis, she was always more mindful in dance of the strain my back could be in certain positions, so would always make sure I would not overdo anything."
Today, Sofia continues to dance, and as she continues her treatment, she remains as passionate as ever.
"My dreams are to win dance competitions and hopefully become a dance teacher myself when I'm older and grow up to be just like Miss Ashley."
