Mayo's Moffatt School of Irish Dancing receives accreditation from All-Ireland Business Federation

The Crossmolina-based Moffatt School of Irish Dancing has received accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Federation (AIBF) for the second time, in recognition of its 36 years promoting Irish dancing. The school, which recently produced three world-title-winning dancers, was named Business All-Star Mayo All-Ireland Champion Irish Dance Academy 2026 by the AIBF to recognise 'more than three decades of excellence in Irish dance education, talent development and the promotion of Irish culture.' Founded by Sheila Moffatt in 1990, the school started off with just three students in the community hall in Crossmolina. Today, it provides classes for dancers of all ages across Mayo, from beginner level through to world champion standard. The school has produced several outstanding dancers, including three world champions at the recent 2026 World Championships in Dublin, with 19 solo placings and nine top ten finishes. The school's dancers have performed at venues around the world and regularly take part in a range of non-competitive cultural events. Sheila Moffatt, Director of Moffatt School of Irish Dancing, expressed delight at the school receiving their All-Star Accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation. 'Receiving this recognition for a second time means a great deal to us. It reflects the standards we work hard to maintain and, importantly, gives our students, parents and customers added confidence and trust in the experience we provide,' she said. 'At the heart of our school is a love of Irish dance and culture. We are proud to create an environment where every student can develop that love, whether they choose a competitive or non-competitive path. This accreditation also recognises the high standard of performance we bring to the events we are involved in. 'We are excited to continue developing this side of Moffatt School of Irish Dancing and creating new opportunities for our dancers. We are incredibly proud of our team and students, and look forward to building on this recognition in the years ahead.' The All-Ireland Business Foundation is an autonomous national accreditation body which promotes best-in-class Irish businesses through the All-Star mark. Kieran Ring, Deputy Chair of the AIBF Adjudication Board, described the Moffatt School of Irish Dancing as 'an outstanding example of how tradition, education and ambition can come together to create something truly special'.