Wayne started dancing salsa in 2006.He decided that so many others must struggle similarly that a new method could be taught as weekly courses rather than drop-in classes. Having given much thought to this and realising that this wasn't being done elsewhere at the time (certainly not in the South West), he spent the next 18 months travelling the West Country trying different teachers. He learned not just what works, but also what doesn't work so well! This concept of running a course over several weeks, rather than drop-in lessons, quickly became popular, and other salsa dance schools soon followed in a similar format, but without the same success!
In 2008, Wayne set up his first class, teaching a beginner's course in South Bristol. His fun and charismatic style of teaching brings laughter to the arena, and the courses allow pupils to learn at their own pace in a safe environment. Such is the popularity of these courses that there are now (usually) at least three teachers available each night, all taking different levels and teaching varying levels of technique and styling.
Since the beginning of his teaching career, Wayne has taught workshops for entertainment companies; stag and hen nights, at salsa parties, choreographed and taught wedding dances, and notably for the International Bristol Balloon Fiesta. Wayne was most proud of this appointment but feels having four of the Red Arrow pilots take part in his lesson was a highlight of his career to date. In fact, the pilots enjoyed the group lesson so much that they later asked for a private lesson.
In 2010, he was approached by the local authority to teach salsa to primary school children, which he found a most challenging but enjoyable experience. His teaching experience continues to grow, having now taught in Bristol's new shopping Centre 'Cabot Circus' as well as for several charities, including Oxfam and Mencap.
Wayne strived to improve his teaching capabilities and teaching methods on a daily basis. When a pupil cannot understand instructions; it is his teaching methods he questions rather than the students' ability to learn.
Wayne believes, and has proven, he can teach anyone to dance, from 6-year-old children to adults with learning difficulties to mass crowds to small classes!
In 2013, Wayne retired from teaching and the public side of Salsa Bristol — he now occasionally helps behind the scenes in an advisory capacity and helps coordinate activities.
