Hipperholme Grammar dancer shines on stage after life-saving surgery

Ava started to dance at age two and has regularly competed in dance festivals, competitions and championships, winning various medals and trophies along the way, before landing a part in a ballet production of Snow White with Yorkshire Theatre Ballet. Her journey to the stage has been far from easy as Ava was diagnosed with a congenital heart disease at her 20-week scan and spent the first months of her life in hospital. At 10 weeks old Ava had life-saving open heart surgery which would give her the chance of a full, happy life. Ten years after her surgery, Ava continues to thrive. From the moment she could stand, Ava's feet found rhythm and dancing became a huge part of her life.

For the past two years, Ava has successfully auditioned to become a Northern Ballet junior associate. Additionally, she has been offered a place in their Centre of Advanced Training programme starting in September. Despite her budding dance career, Ava manages to maintain her role as a conscientious and popular student at Hipperholme Grammar. Her achievements in both school and dance are widely celebrated within the school community.