Honouring Ann Stannard, Founder of Central

3 February 2026

Ann Stannard 1935 – 2026

We are very sad to share that Ann Stannard who founded Central School of Ballet with Christopher Gable in 1982 passed away on Friday 30 January 2026. We offer our sincere condolences to her family.

Ann trained and worked at The Rambert School of Ballet before bringing her skills to the role of Administrative Director at Central School of Ballet. She embedded further education into the curriculum and believed in preparing students not only for their dance careers, but also for a rounded life beyond the stage.

Her extraordinary commitment to dance and young dancers created a rich legacy, launching careers as well as ensuring that Central School of Ballet was relevant and resilient in an ever-changing world. We are very grateful for all that Ann has given to Central and will work to honour her legacy by continuing to support talented young people and the future of dance in the UK and beyond.

Mark Osterfield, Executive Director

Ann’s family have asked for any donations in her memory to be given to Central School of Ballet.