Irene McKechnie

Founder and Principal

Irene Mckechnie was taught by the wonderful Willie Cuthbertson. She is a former World Highland dancing champion and in fact, was the very first dancer to ever win all 3 age groups - juvenile, junior and Senior WORLD Highland dancing championship titles.

Irene is very proud to have produced 2 World Highland dancing champions - Helen Fitzpatrick and her daughter Nadine McKenzie Judge.

A soloist dancer with the “white heather club” Irene enjoyed her teenage years performing in Theatre venues across the UK and many TV shows with the very famous Jimmy Shand.

Now as a teacher, Irene is at her happiest when she is in the studio teaching her students. Even through the worst case of Cancer - Irene never missed a class and we are pleased to say .... 13 years clear! The bond between Irene and her students is “special”.

Irene teaches all Highland classes, from the age of 3+ right up to her Senior students. Her pupils have won many Highland dancing championship titles - Scottish, English, British, commonwealth and South Africa Championship titles to name a few.

Irene recently received the “ATHOLL CLASP” in recognition of her dedication and work for the Highland world and ROYAL SCOTTISH OFFICIAL BOARD OF HIGHLAND DANCING.

Falkirk council also awarded Irene with a silver plate and evening to acknowledge her 50 years of teaching and huge success over the years