A teenager from a secondary school in Peterlee has secured the winner’s spot at a highly regarded North East dance competition.
Lauren Balls, who attends St Bede’s Catholic School and Byron 6th Form College, part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, won gold at the 2022 North East of England Irish Dance Championships. Lauren entered the Intermediate category beating around 20 other hopefuls to gain the top spot on the podium.
The 13-year-old has been a keen and active sportsperson since her younger years, excelling in swimming and dancing. Lauren now swims and dances competitively, training over 20 hours per week alongside her studies as she follows her sporting passions.
Frances Cessford, headteacher at St Bede’s Catholic School and Byron 6th Form College, said: “It’s wonderful that Lauren has won such a highly respected dancing competition and we couldn’t be prouder.
“At St Bede’s we highlight the importance of trying different activities and hobbies, whether that’s sports orientated, art-focused or more academic in nature.
“Taking part in such activities requires dedication, hard work and great effort. All of these characteristics are vital life skills and Lauren demonstrates them so well.
“She’s a great role model to her peers and it’s lovely to watch her grow, like all of our pupils, into a confident, passionate and focused young person. Well done, Lauren.”
The North East of England Irish Dance Championships is a well-established national contest that attracts around 400 competitors each year across five categories.
Lauren Balls said: “When I swim or dance, I feel so good and although it’s hard work sometimes juggling my schoolwork with my sports, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“When competing, I don’t always win but no matter what, I go back to training and work hard to improve.
“It feels amazing to win this competition and I really enjoyed the occasion.”