31 October 2025
Often described as the “Oscars of the dance world,” the Carl Alan Awards celebrate individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the art and teaching of dance. We are proud to shine a light on our members and medalists who won at this year's event.
Paula Goodyear - Dedicated Teachers Award 2025
This year, Paula Goodyear was honoured with the Dedicated Teachers Award, recognising her devotion to her students.
Paula shared: “I was happy to be nominated by the ISTD for the award, winning is an appreciation of my dedication to my teaching and the ISTD.”
Paula’s dance journey began at age thirteen. She progressed through her ISTD medals and professional examinations, ultimately becoming an inspiring teacher in her own right.
When asked what advice she would offer to future teachers, Paula said: “To be a good dance teacher you need to work hard, be dedicated to your pupils and the ISTD.”
Robert and Louise Aldred - Outstanding Services to Classical Sequence
Renowned for their expertise in Classical Sequence, Robert and Louise Aldred received the Outstanding Services to Classical Sequence Award - a recognition of their contribution to the genre.
“We were very honoured to have been nominated and voted for by our peers,” they said. “It meant a great deal to be recognised for our work in representing, promoting and developing Sequence.”
Their journey with the ISTD began with a shared love for Sequence and a desire to be part of its continued evolution.
“We originally joined the ISTD because it had a dedicated Sequence faculty and offered examinations, competitions and events in this genre. The existing faculty members were quick to recognise our interest and involve us in the work of the faculty, which we have now both served on for many years.”
Robert and Louise have both danced since childhood — Robert inspired by his older sister, and Louise by her mother, who ran a dance school.
Reflecting on their journey, they spoke of the many mentors who influenced them along the way: “There have been many teachers and professionals who have helped and inspired us at different stages of our life. All of them have had an impact and shaped our dance career in different ways.”
Their advice to the next generation of dancers is: “Take advice from everyone you respect and admire, and then forge your own path. Be true to your own values.”
Another highlight of the evening came when two of their long-term pupils, Joshua O’Conchorsley and Grace Phipps, were announced as winners of the Outstanding Classical Sequence Partnership Award.
“It was a highlight of our career, made even more memorable as a couple we’ve trained since childhood – who are also ISTD medallists – were nominated and won. That made the evening truly unforgettable.”
Joshua O’Conchorsley and Grace Phipps – Outstanding Classical Sequence Partnership
Joshua O’Conchorsley and Grace Phipps were celebrated with the Outstanding Classical Sequence Partnership Award, marking a milestone in their careers.
“Being nominated for this award was very special to both of us,” they shared. “It’s a huge honour to be recognised, and it feels like all the hard work and dedication has paid off. It motivates us both to keep learning and helps us shape our path for the future.”
As ISTD-trained dancers, Joshua and Grace credit the organisation’s structure and guidance for much of their success: “Being an ISTD student has given us both a strong foundation. The structured syllabus and feedback from teachers and examiners has really helped us grow in both skill and confidence.”
Their partnership began as a shared love of dancing, which soon grew into a deep commitment to performance and learning. “Dancing has always been something that brought us joy. It began as a simple hobby we loved, but over time, the thrill of performing and connecting with an audience became an essential part of who we are as dancers.”
They both credit Robert and Louise Aldred as key mentors: “We have been incredibly fortunate to progress through our dance journey together at the Duesbury Aldred Dance Centre, guided and inspired by our teachers, Robert and Louise. Their influence has been instrumental in shaping not only our technique but also our passion and commitment to dance.”
When asked what advice they would give to others, their words reflect both maturity and gratitude: “Progress in dance takes time, so celebrate every small achievement along the way. The relationships formed during competition often hold the most lasting memories. Keep learning and never lose the spark that first made you love dancing.”
For Joshua and Grace, this award is both a recognition and a promise of what’s to come: “It’s a reflection of all the hard work and love we’ve poured into our competitive career. It’s an incredible honour to be recognised by such a respected organisation, and it motivates us to keep growing, inspiring others, and sharing our passion for dance with future generations.”
