A Highland dancer in a green tartan skirt viewed from above, the pleats fanned out in a full circle

Thistlebrook Academy

Where tradition finds its footing.

Thistlebrook Academy teaches the art of Scottish Highland dance to every age and stage — from a child's first steps to the championship stage.

Highland Fling
Sword Dance
Seann Triubhas
Strathspey
Reel
Lilt
Highland Fling
Sword Dance
Seann Triubhas
Strathspey
Reel
Lilt
Highland Fling
Sword Dance
Seann Triubhas
Strathspey
Reel
Lilt
Young dancers practising at the barre in a sunlit Highland dance studio

Our Academy

A home for Highland dance, rooted in heritage and heart.

Thistlebrook Academy was founded on a simple belief: that the discipline, grace, and joy of Highland dance belong to everyone. Under registered, championship-level instruction, our dancers grow in technique and confidence within a community that feels like family.

From your child's very first fling to the polish of the competition floor, we honour centuries of Scottish tradition while nurturing each dancer as an individual.

20+
Years of teaching
300+
Dancers trained
40+
Championship medals
6
Programmes for all ages

Classes & Programmes

A path for every dancer

Whatever your age or ambition, there is a place for you at the barre. Explore our programmes and find where your journey begins.

IntroductoryAges 3 – 5

Wee Thistles

A playful first introduction to Highland dance, building coordination, rhythm, and a love of movement through story and song.

  • 30-minute classes
  • Parent-and-tot friendly
  • Termly showcase
Enrol in Wee Thistles
BeginnerAges 6 – 10

Foundations

The core steps of Highland technique — the Fling, Sword Dance, and Seann Triubhas — taught with patience and traditional discipline.

  • Technique fundamentals
  • First tartan fittings
  • Grade assessments
Enrol in Foundations
Intermediate – AdvancedAges 9+

Competitive Squad

Focused training for dancers pursuing SOBHD competition, with conditioning, choreography, and championship preparation.

  • Small class sizes
  • Competition coaching
  • Championship prep
Enrol in Competitive Squad
AdvancedAll ages · by audition

Performance Troupe

Our touring ensemble performs at Highland games, weddings, and cultural events across the region throughout the year.

  • Choreographed sets
  • Live event booking
  • Ensemble artistry
Enrol in Performance Troupe
All levels welcomeAges 16+

Adult Highland

Whether returning to dance or beginning fresh, adults find fitness, community, and heritage in a warm, unhurried setting.

  • Evening classes
  • No experience needed
  • Social ceilidhs
Enrol in Adult Highland
TailoredAll ages

Private Tuition

One-to-one coaching shaped entirely around your goals — from perfecting a single step to preparing for a major examination.

  • Flexible scheduling
  • Personalised plans
  • Rapid progress
Enrol in Private Tuition

The Calendar

Upcoming classes & competitions

Weekly classes and every competition and showcase across the season, all in one place. Use the filter to switch between classes and competitions.

September 2026

Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Class Competition / showcase

Our Instructors

Learn from dancers who have lived it

Our teaching team brings championship experience, registered qualifications, and a genuine devotion to every dancer's growth.

Portrait of Chelsea, Assistant Instructor at Thistlebrook Academy

Chelsea

Assistant Instructor

Chelsea started dancing at the age of 7. She currently assists teaching classes, dances with Thistle & Thorn, still competes with Thistlebrook Academy, and is the Instructor for the White Spot Pipe Band Dancers. Chelsea is a dedicated, creative, passionate, role model at our studio- giving our dancers all of her support. When Chelsea isn’t dancing, she is focusing and working hard on her studies at SFU. Her most memorable dance moment was when she accidentally jumped on and broke her sword at a competition.

Portrait of Meghan Pike, Studio Owner & Instructor at Thistlebrook Academy

Meghan Pike

Studio Owner & Instructor

Miss Meghan has been dancing since the age of 3 and, with more than 30 years of experience, has built a lifetime of cherished memories through competitions, performances, and military tattoos around the world. Along the way, she has developed lifelong friendships and a deep connection to the Scottish and Highland dance community. After completing her Associates and Members examinations, Meghan opened Thistlebrook Academy of Highland Dance at the age of 21. In 2025, the Academy celebrated its 10th anniversary—a milestone that reflects her dedication, passion, and commitment to the dancers and community she has built. Meghan is passionate about creating an environment where every dancer feels welcomed, included, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. She works tirelessly to provide her dancers with opportunities to experience the same friendships, adventures, and lifelong memories that have made Highland dancing such a meaningful part of her own life. Her love for dance and the people who make up the Highland dance community continues to be her greatest motivation. Outside of the studio, Meghan works as an I.E.S.W. and provides respite care during school breaks. When she isn’t dancing or teaching, you can usually find her playing on her baseball team or enjoying time outdoors. And, of course, she is rarely seen without a Starbucks or Diet Coke in hand!

In Their Words

Loved by our dancers & their families

My daughter walked in a shy five-year-old and found a second family. The teaching is rigorous, but the warmth is what keeps us coming back.

Catherine M.

Parent of a Foundations dancer

Thistlebrook took my competitive dancing to a level I never imagined. Two premier medals this season — I owe it to the coaching here.

Ailsa R.

Competitive Squad, age 14

I started adult classes at fifty and it has been the joy of my week. Heritage, fitness, and the loveliest people you could meet.

Graham T.

Adult Highland dancer

Enrolment

Reserve your place at the barre

New terms open throughout the year and places fill quickly. Send us a few details and we'll be in touch to arrange a complimentary trial class for your dancer.

  • A free trial class, no obligation
  • Guidance choosing the right programme
  • Warm, registered, championship-level teaching

Get in Touch

Come and dance with us

Questions about classes, competitions, or booking our troupe? We'd love to hear from you. Visit the studio or drop us a line.