Leeds Civic Trust is to unveil its 200th Blue Plaque to honour visionary dance teacher and educationist, Nadine Senior MBE.
The blue plaque, a significant milestone for the Trust, will highlight Senior’s lasting influence on the world of dance and education, particularly in Leeds, where her work transformed the arts landscape.
As a former headteacher of Harehills Middle School, and founding principal of Northern School of Contemporary Dance, she pioneered a dance curriculum that nurtured the talents of students, many of whom went on to form or perform with the world-renowned Leeds-based Phoenix Dance Theatre. Her dedication to making dance accessible to all, regardless of background, has left a lasting legacy in the City’s cultural scene.
The unveiling will not just be a commemoration of her contributions to dance education but also a celebration of her vision in shaping inclusive opportunities for young people through the arts. Nadine was a force – a true trailblazer. She held a very clear, profound philosophy about the value of the arts – and particularly of dance – for the individual, the City of Leeds and society in general. Her impact on the British dance ecology, at a particularly formative stage, was considerable.
The blue plaque reads:
NADINE SENIOR MBE
Visionary teacher who championed dance education in Leeds.
She founded the
Northern School of Contemporary Dance
In 1985 as the first public sector
Conservatoire dance school, following the success of her dance teaching
As deputy head at
Harehills Middle School.
Many former pupils have become
Successful professionals
in the arts.
1939 – 2016
Trust Director, Martin Hamilton:
“It seems entirely appropriate that Leeds Civic Trust’s two hundredth plaque celebrates someone who had a positive impact on so many lives in Leeds. Nadine Senior’s legacy in the world of dance, culture and the arts can be witnessed through the success of NDCD and of those who were nurtured by her.”
NSCD CEO & Principal, Sharon Watson MBE, DL, herself a former student of Nadine:
“Nadine was a remarkable individual and pioneering force in dance education. The tremendous impact of her contribution continues to resonate; it underpins not only NSCD but Leeds as a City of Dance. She dedicated her life to inspiring young dancers and transforming the landscape of training. Her impact is reflected in the countless artists she
nurtured. As we unveil this blue plaque in her honour—on what would have been her 85th birthday—we celebrate her extraordinary legacy. This tribute serves as a lasting reminder of her commitment to creativity and passion in dance, guiding future generations on their own journeys of artistic expression.”
Photography by Pete Huggins.
