The people behind our classes
We have welcomed young performers to Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow in Wokingham, Woodley and nearby Reading since 2008, and this page gives you a closer look at the people behind our work. You'll be able to see the patrons and team members connected with our musical theatre school, listed clearly so you can put faces to names. That matters when you're choosing classes for your child, because confidence grows faster when you know who is guiding each session. Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow supports children and young people aged 3½ to 17 through enjoyable training in musical theatre, tap, ballet and troupe work. The right team brings energy, patience and encouragement into every lesson, and that's often what helps a shy child settle in. We want families in Wokingham, Woodley and nearby Reading to feel informed and comfortable before picking up the phone.
Shelley Otway-Wood: CEO and principal
There isn’t much Shelley doesn’t know about performing arts, being in a show, putting on a show and getting children into a show!
Shelley founded Steppin Out 18 years ago. She comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience.
After training at the prestigious GSA in Musical Theatre on a full scholarship, her career has spanned some 30 years. She started by working in numerous West End Musicals and plays in major roles such as: 42nd Street, Anything Goes, Carousel and Oliver, to name a few.
Shelley has also gained an impressive list of teaching qualifications and extensive business awards, including "Best Children's Theatre School" (2025 and 2026), "Best Businesswoman working with children" (2024) and, most impressively, a silver Stevie Award that she collected in New York for "Most Inspiring Businesswoman in the world"
Shelley has coached children into the following professional productions: Les Misérables, The Snowman, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Gypsy, Annie, The Lion King, Mary Poppins and numerous Pantomimes. She has a 100% track record of getting students into full-time drama and dance colleges with her own bespoke 121 programme.
Alongside running her highly successful school, Shelley also runs her own Costume Company "The Costume Cupboard" and she is also CEO of her own Creative Arts Business Coaching business.
Shelley also judges for one of the most competitive business awards in the country for BBA.
She lives in Berkshire with her husband Rob and her daughter Aiyana who has attended classes at Steppin Out since she was 3 yrs old.
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Shelley is often heard saying to her students " Smile, because when you smile you sparkle and when you sparkle you are successful!"​
Karen Bush: PA to the CEO
Karen joined the Steppin Out family just over 2 yrs ago as a parent, when her daughter started in Step 4. From the very beginning, her daughter absolutely loved it and settled in quickly, later joining the Senior Troupe.
Karen joined the committee more recently and has enjoyed learning more about what goes on behind the scenes to support the smooth running of the school. It has been a positive experience being part of a team focused on providing a supportive environment for the children.
A mum of seven, Karen has spent the last five years at home caring for her family. Before that, she worked in schools for around eight year. Karen is keen to contribute her experience, along with her dependable and caring nature, to her role at Steppin Out.
Hayley Richardson: SEN, safeguarding & inclusion director
Hayley trained at Mountview and has performed in the West End (‘Polly', Crazy For You - Palladium, ‘Christine’ - Phantom in Concert - Alexandra Palace), in plays (RSC Dell Theatre) and on tour, including singing at the NEC Arena and the MGM Grand, Las Vegas. Having previously been many a panto princess around the UK, she has graduated to become a panto villain in her old age!
Currently studying an MSc in Psychology and fully trained to asess for ADHD Hayley also ran her own award-winning theatre school, HOT Academy, for ten years in Dunstable and Bracknell. She teaches English Literature and Language in both class and 1-1 environments (online and in person) and owns 'Tutoring With Hayley', specialising in teaching GCSE and A-Level to students with extreme Anxiety, SEN and SEMH needs. She has been a registered Chaperone since 2009 and is delighted to bring her expertise to help the students of Steppin Out be safe and have fun whilst learning the craft of an amazing industry.
Isabelle Clover: Head of dance
Isabelle has been involved in Musical Theatre her whole life and has completed exams in all disciplines to a high level. Having performed in professional Pantomimes at the Hexagon and also having first-hand experience of what being a student at Steppin Out is like, she is excited to be back once again to share her passion.
Alongside her continued involvement in the arts, Isabelle has started working towards her law degree this year, with the long-term aim of qualifying as a barrister.
"Watching the students at Steppin Out flourish in confidence as they develop their skills is really inspiring to witness. With hard work the sky really is the limit for them!"
Georgia Wenstrom: Drama teacher for main school and dance teacher for Step 1
Georgia trained at Steppin Out for 10 years as well as dancing at JACAD.
Her highlight whilst being a student with us was performing at Disneyland Paris.
Currently, Georgia is training at Kingsclere Performing Arts College in Musical Theatre. She has choreographed some of the routines for The Blackpool Tower performance for Steppin Out in 2024 and loves teaching Drama to the main school. She is currently assistant director on Steppin Into Oz.
"It is an absolute pleasure teaching at Steppin Out. I am surrounded by so much passion, fun and sparkles. I bring a big smile, encouragement, and lots of energy to my classes."
Lauren Kinghorn: senior ballet teacher, troupe coordinator & singing teacher (Woodley)
Lauren has worked for Steppin Out for several years after graduating from The Brighton Academy and since then has had the privilege of working professionally both in pantos and touring shows. She is passionate about performing and teaching young performers to find their voice and confidence.
Sophie Akers: private singing teacher, Head of drama & Vice principal.
Musical Theatre has been a part of Sophie's life from a very young age. At 16, Sophie earned a scholarship and began full-time training at the Wilkes Academy. Since her graduation, she has been working as a professional singer and performer in a wide variety of genres and shows. Sophie has always had a passion for teaching young performers and is now looking to pass her knowledge of the industry on to the stars at Steppin Out. She believes that there is nothing more rewarding than watching students grow and flourish in what they love doing most.
Michelle Lewis: costume manager & head chaperone
Michelle is mum to Isabelle, who is in Step 3 and has been a student for nearly 7 years. She joined the committee in 2023, which has been a lot of fun, and she has made so many new friends. She's a natural organiser and loves a spreadsheet, so when Shelley asked if she could help with the costumes, she jumped at the chance.
Michaela Webb: bookkeeping and accounts
Michaela is an AAT-certified accountant and dedicated bookkeeper with a knack for keeping finances in order. She earned her accountancy degree while working full-time, proving a strong commitment to personal growth and career development. In her current role as a bookkeeper, Michaela is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, reconciling accounts, and ensuring everything adds up.
Miss Lyla: assistant
Lyla has an amazing passion and drive for sports, including dance, and she previously danced with Steppin Out for 4 years. Lyla is a Year 11 student who loves working with children. With a strong interest in sport, she brings energy, enthusiasm and fresh ideas to every class!
"I’m passionate about dance and the power of movement, I’m creative, fun and super exited to help your children to feel comfortable and confident in themselves."
Miss Emily: step 2 dance teacher and head assistant
Emily has been at Steppin Out for over 12 years. During her time, she's enjoyed dance, drama and singing and additionally took on tap lessons. She is a Step 1, beginners tap and beginners ballet assistant.
"I love seeing the students at Steppin Out find out what they love about musical theatre and flourishing as they learn."
Miss Lillie: dance programme assistant
Lillie has been a student at Steppin Out for over 3 years. She takes private singing lessons and is a valued member of our fantastic Senior Troupe. In Summer 2025, Lillie joined the team as a Saturday assistant to the Step 1 class.
"I love performing and I love working with younger kids who love performing. I'm lucky to be able to share my passion with them."
Mister Riley-James: dance programme assistant
I have been at Steppin Out since I was 5; now I am nearly 14. I like Steppin Out because it is a fun experience for children who love performing arts. Steppin Out is also a great way to make lots of friends.
Miss Liv: dance programme assistant
Liv has been at Steppin Out for over 7 years, currently attending additional classes in Advanced Tap, Senior Ballet and Troupe. She has been fortunate enough to perform at Blackpool Tower, local carnivals, South Hill Park, London's West end and Disney in 2026 all with Steppin Out.
The highlight of her week is attending these classes and seeing the lovely friends she has made and being part of the fantastic community Steppin Out has established.
Miss Aiyana: dance programme assistant
Aiyana has been at Steppin Out since she was 3 years old. She has performed at Disneyland Paris twice and at The Best Business Woman Awards, Blackpool Tower Ballroom, South Hill Park Theatre, Reddam House, Londons West End and in numerous Carnivals and fetes in lead roles.
She is delighted to be an assistant and hopes to run her own school one day!
Miss Zara: dance programme assistant
I’ve been coming to Steppin Out since I was 3.5 years old, and I love that the lessons are fun and the teachers are so committed.
Dance allows me to express myself, and acting gives me the confidence to be someone else on stage. The shows and productions are great to be a part of. Steppin Out has given me new confidence and some wonderful friendships too!
Miss Tayla: dance programme assistant
I am currently in Step 4 at Woodley, Ballet, Street Dance and in the Senior Troupe. I love being part of the school, especially the dancing and singing. A couple of the highlights for me have been making new friends and performing on stage in London's West end. I love helping out with the Step 2s and studying the Future Dance Teacher programme.
Miss Isabelle: dance programme assistant
Isabelle’s been at Steppin Out for over 8 years now. She loves everything about it! She’s made some wonderful friends and had amazing performance opportunities, and it has given her amazing confidence in so many other things she does too.
Miss Ava: dance programme assistant
Ava joined Steppin Out at 5 years old, and for the past three years, she’s been a proud member of the Senior Troupe. She’s had the opportunity to perform at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom, where she danced on the same floor as the stars of Strictly Come Dancing, and at the Wilde Theatre, Wokingham May Fayre, and Woodley events.
"I love my weekly classes at Steppin Out. Dancing is my favourite, and I've learned so much about acting and singing too. It’s really helped me grow in confidence and I’ve made some amazing friends along the way."
Miss Darcy: dance programme assistant
Darcy has been a student of Steppin Out for many now. She is a member of the amazing Senior Troupe & Ballet class as well as Step 4 in Wokingham. She has performed in Disney Land & in London's West end with Steppin Out.
"I have always had a passion for theatre and Steppin Out has helped me grow my confidence, I’m so glad I can help younger students enjoy performing like I do."
Miss Isabelle: dance programme assistant
I have been at Steppin Out for 4 years now, but it feels like a lifetime. I love Steppin Out so much because everyone is free to be themselves. I’m currently a part of Step 4 Wokingham and the senior troupe. My friends at Steppin Out are the truest. I’m so excited to start the future dance teacher program this year.
Miss Lexi: dance programme assistant
Lexi's been at Steppin Out for over a couple of years now. She's had the opportunity to take part in the parade at Disneyland Paris and absolutely loved it. She loves looking after the little ones and can't wait to do more amazing shows.
Miss Hannah: dance programme assistant
I love Steppin Out so much because everyone is free to be themselves. I’m currently a part of Step 4 Wokingham and take classes in Private singing, Ballet, Tap and I am a member of senior troupe. My friends at Steppin Out are the truest. I’m so excited to start this new chapter in my career by being in the future dance teacher program.
Mister Roshan: dance programme assistant
I've been at Steppin Out for 10 years, and I've had so much fun so far! Steppin Out is the most incredible theatre school you could ever go to. I get to see all of my friends and do what I love; it really is the highlight of my week! I've been lucky enough to have been in the UK and Ireland tour of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and I couldn't have done it all without the support from everyone at Steppin Out. I want to try and use my experience to help and teach others and to get them started in their performing journey!
Miss Isla: dance programme assistant
I joined Steppin Out when I was 6 years old, after doing the Greatest Showman summer camp. I am so delighted to be part of the Steppin Out team and I love the Future Dance Teacher programme. I love working with the little ones!
Miss Bianca: dance programme assistant
I have gained a lot of experience through classes and performances, as I have been involved in musical theatre since 2021, loving singing, dancing, and acting at Steppin Out. Over the years, I have taken part in many productions (The Wizard of Oz, Matilda, Aladdin, School of Rock, and The Greatest Showman) in amazing locations such as South Hill Park and Reddam House.
I have performed at the Woodley Carnival, Woodley Extravaganzas, and the Wokingham Mela. I also had the exciting opportunity to perform at Disneyland Paris & in London's West end alongside some of my colleagues from Steppin Out.
I work well with young children and enjoy helping them learn. In the future, I hope to become a dance teacher.
Patrons
Matthew Stirling
Credits also include: Fast and Furious 6, Batman, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Bond, Game of Thrones and EastEnders to name a few. Matt is no stranger to Steppin Out; infact, he has never missed a show since being our patron. The children always love hearing about his latest filming jobs! Matt trained at Italia Conti on the 3-year Musical Theatre Course.
"I'm honoured to be a Patron of Steppin Out. The school is exciting, professionally run and the children ooze charisma on and off stage."
Emma Barton
Emma is known for playing Honey Mitchell in EastEnders and being a Strictly Finalist in 2022. Her numerous stage credits include Chicago, Grease and The Secret Garden in the West End and on TV, Children In Need and Celebrity MasterChef! Emma trained at The Guildford School of Acting on the 3-year Musical Theatre Course with our Principal.
When Emma visited Steppin Out: https://youtu.be/8bHh4pU6RYg?si=KJ6j3HGg9dZb9xza ​
"I think it is so important for children with an interest in performing to be encouraged, guided and enjoy every minute. All of these things are true of Steppin Out theatre school and this is why I love being a patron of these stars of tomorrow!"
Vicki Manser
Vicki started her career as a Steppin Out teacher and then went on to the West End production of Sunny Afternoon, Carole in 'Beautiful' at the Aldwych Theatre, 'Six' the musical playing all 6 roles as well as 'Bat Out Of Hell' in London's West End. She then came back to Steppin Out as choreographer. She now performs in her own band. Vicki trained at Urdang Academy on the 3-year Musical Theatre Degree course.
When Vicki visited Steppin Out: https://youtu.be/Vb21nkw5unU
"I am amazed how the school continues to grow and consistently improves."
Tom Chambers
Tom was a winner of Strictly Come Dancing and a proud Olivier winner! Credits include: Emmerdale, Holby City, Waterloo Road, White Xmas, Elf and Top Hat The Musical. He is also a radio presenter for Magic FM. Tom trained at The Guildford School of Acting on the 3-year Musical Theatre course alongside our Principal.
Tom Chambers video at Steppin Out: https://youtu.be/FP-XXLOMVEU
"I'm 100% behind Steppin Out. It's Principal is bubbly, enthusiastic, dedicated and really knows her stuff."
What makes us stand out
Patrons with real industry standing
Our patrons include West End stars, an Olivier winner and familiar faces from stage and screen — professionals who champion our students and share their world with them.
Taught by performers who've done it
From West End stages to national tours, our team teaches from real professional experience — led by a principal with a 100% record of getting students into full-time colleges.
Safeguarding and inclusion at the core
With a dedicated safeguarding, SEN and inclusion director and DBS-checked, chaperone-trained staff, every child is cared for as well as inspired.
Frequently asked questions
- Liberty Petty
I attended Steppin Out for 13 years. I loved how creative each week. Termly we had specialist workshops with industry professionals which was so exciting. Steppin Out became a family to me very quickly and I fondly remember getting excited on Saturday to go to my lessons with my friends I made for life. The singing lessons were my favourite . I can’t thank the school enough for giving me the confidence to make me the performer I am today. Under Shelley's careful and kind audition prep I was thrilled to then go onto a full time 2 years performing arts course. Now I am followed my dream of Musical Theatre at the prestigious Italia Conti leading on to a 3 year degree course at Urdang Academy of Performing Arts. It is lovely to come back to the place where it all started and pass on fresh industry knowledge to the next generation when I can!