Frequently Asked Questions about the Handover
These are being constantly updated so please check back regularly.
FAQ's
Will you still be teaching? (Lucy)
Yes! I have no plans to stop teaching anytime soon, although I won't be teaching regular evening classes.
What will happen with my payments?
If you pay via Bookwhen, you will be sent detailed instructions on moving over to Nicola's payment system (very similar, and will be super simple).
If you have a Fixed Membership, Nicola's team will be in touch with you soon.
When will I meet my new Instructor?
For the time being, your instructor team will stay the same. Before any changes are made, Nicola and her team will be in touch with you.
Will I get to meet Nicola?
Of course you will! Nicola will be around during classes as often as she can! She will also be doing internal workshops for you all (and guess what… those will be free for you! All her members get free internal workshops! She’ll be messaging you more about that shortly!)
What will change for me and when?
Your classes will remain the same! Nicola wants to reassure you that the current class structure will remain the same, but will of course notify you of additional classes (exciting) or any class changes. Her ethos is to always listen to the masses and accommodate class schedules to your needs.
What if I don’t want to pole anymore?
Whilst I will, of course, be very sad, I completely understand. I appreciate that some of you pole specifically because I am teaching, but I will say this .... I'd HUGELY recommend that you give Nicola and her team a chance before you make a choice to leave, because she has a LOT to offer you!
What if I’d prefer to pole at Nicola’s other venues?
YOU CAN! With Nicola’s amazing membership set up, you can use class credits across any venue! So, if you want to do a class in Witney one week, and a class in Oxford the next, you can. Her structure allows for ultimate flexibility! Plus, this also means you can access hoop and silks classes too!
Will the studio be closing at any time during this transition?
Nope! We will be open as usual for all of your pole goodness.
When will the new studio program be available?
Class timetables will remain as they currently are, however, we will be transferring to a new booking system. Nicola will be in touch with you soon to transfer your existing membership to the Go Team Up system.
Will class prices be changing?
Yes, but it’s great news - the new membership structure will actually be more cost-effective AND packed with amazing benefits! Nicola will be in touch soon with full pricing details, but here's what you can look forward to:
Your New Membership Benefits:
• Discounted private lessons
• Free internal workshops
• Access to the Aerial Education Hub - online content platform for easy practice and reference
• Flexibility to use class credits across any venue and discipline
• Priority class booking - no need to keep having to book with a member exclusive reservations function
• Exclusive member-only events
• Complimentary open practice sessions
I know you’re probably itching to see some figures, so let me reassure you with this real Savings Example:
Currently paying £13.50 membership + attending 4 classes monthly at £8 each = £45.50 total
New 1 class per week membership = £40 monthly
That's £5.50 in savings PLUS all the incredible membership perks! You'll get free open sessions, training flexibility across all venues, complimentary workshops, and so much more.
Bottom line: More benefits, more flexibility, better value - it's a win all around!
Will class numbers be changing?
No, 2 is the maximum number per pole that we will ever have in the Studio - this is an industry standard that is important to us so that everyone has enough time on the pole.
Will we still have Mummies, S&C and Heels classes?
Yes! Until further notice, all of those classes will continue as normal.
What happens about the December Image Cella shoot?
Absolutely nothing! We carry on completely as normal and if you're booked in, I will still be available for privates in the run up to the date, and on the day. Nicola will communicate with you about future photo shoot opportunities, in due time.
Will there be a leaving party in September?
Not in September, but don't worry, there will definitely be some sort of event early 2026 to celebrate 13 years of LucyPole!
Who do I contact if I have a problem between now and 30th September?
Until 1st September, everything continues as normal. From 1st September 2025, Nicola will be your main contact. We will share all the details you need closer to the time.
Will the studio’s approach or values change?
Absolutely not. What's important to us is also important to Nicola, and I'm sure you're going to find that our morals, ethics and values align really beautifully. It's one of the reasons that I'm so excited about this change!
Here’s a bit more about Nicola
Meet Nicola Ghalmi - Your New Studio Owner
Nicola (@aerialselevated on IG) is the founder and owner of Aerial Arts Academy, a thriving aerial fitness business that has been empowering students across Oxford since its establishment. With over 20 years of experience in pole dance, aerial silks, and hoop, Nicola brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every aspect of the business. Her passion for creating inclusive, supportive environments where everyone can discover their strength and confidence has built a reputation for exceptional teaching standards and genuine care for her students' journeys.
Nicola's Experience & Expertise:
- 20+ years in aerial arts - Extensive background in pole dance, aerial silks, and hoop for both adult and youth groups.
- She an OG competitor with many titles under her belt, including Kent Pole Champs Pro, Lincolnshire Pole Champs Pro, British Isles Pro Champs pro and more!
- Proven business leader - Successfully built and operates Aerial Arts Academy across multiple Oxford venues
- Qualified instruction team - Leads a large team of specialist instructors with combined decades of experience
- Safety-first approach - Maintains the highest industry standards for equipment and instruction.
Nicola's Business Philosophy:
- Student-centered approach - Every class is designed to meet you where you are and help you grow
- Community building - Creating connections and friendships that extend beyond the studio
- Professional excellence - Maintaining the highest safety standards with qualified, experienced instructors
- Inclusive environment - Welcoming students of all backgrounds, abilities, and fitness levels
Under Nicola's ownership, you'll continue to experience the same high-quality instruction and supportive atmosphere that LucyPole is known for. She's committed to honoring the studio's established community while bringing fresh energy and enhanced membership benefits.
Nicola's hands-on approach means she's actively involved in the day-to-day operations, always available to support both students and instructors. Her vision is to continue growing the vibrant aerial community that Lucy has built, ensuring every student feels valued, challenged, and inspired.
“I'm incredibly excited about the journey ahead! This is an absolute honour to continue the amazing work Lucy has started. This studio has such a special energy, and I can't wait to build on that foundation together." - Nicola
Who else is on Nicola’s team?
Kat Kelly @KatKellyPole (IG) - Senior Instructor
As Aerial Arts Academy's Senior Instructor, Kat provides essential backend support for both the instructor team and students, ensuring the highest standards of teaching and student experience across all venues. She is currently enjoying delivering internal workshops - expect to see some more workshops with her soon!
Kat's passion is all things slow, slinky, and sexual. A two-time 1st place competition winner and proud recipient of the Stripper's Choice Award at YFFF, she brings a wealth of experience to her teaching and mentorship role. Kat has taught across Canada and the UK, and holds XPERT certifications in Heels, Beginners Pole, and Pregnancy & Postpartum training, along with qualifications as a Twerk Technician.
In her senior role, Kat:
- Supporting maintenance and support for student syllabus levels
- Team equipment and safety training
- Events support and more
Her teaching style is all about the devil in the details — helping students tune in, take their time, and tap into their sexy selves. Whether students are brand new to floor and pole or looking to level up their stage presence, Kat creates a welcoming, empowering space to move with confidence, feel incredible, and discover their own unique style.
With Kat's senior support, students can trust that every class at Aerial Arts Academy meets exceptional standards for safety, progression, and empowerment.
Who else is on the new teaching team?
Right, so let me tell you about the incredible team you'll be working with - honestly, I couldn't be more excited for you all to meet them! Nicola has built something really special here with her 14+ instructors who are absolutely brilliant at what they do. And the best bit? Your beloved Karra, Conor and I will all be joining this amazing team too! So, you'll still get to enjoy the usual familiar faces while also meeting some fantastic new instructors.
These aren't just any old teachers - every single one of them has either Spin City or Xpert qualifications (which is basically the gold standard in our world), so you know you're in seriously good hands.
What I love about how Nicola works is that she has this amazing eye for finding the right people. She doesn't just look for technical skills (although they're all incredibly talented) - she finds instructors who genuinely care about creating that supportive, inclusive vibe we all love. You know that feeling when you walk into a class and immediately feel welcome? That's what she's built with this team.
And here's something really cool - if any of you have ever thought "ooh, I'd love to teach one day," Nicola runs a very sought-after 10-week training program for aspiring instructors. It's not just a quick weekend course - they cover everything from safety and teaching methods to how to help students progress. So, if the teaching bug bites you, there's a real pathway there!
What this means for all of you lovely lot:
- Every class will be consistently brilliant, no matter which instructor you get
- You're always going to be safe and properly looked after
- Everyone on the team is genuinely invested in seeing you succeed
- The whole team keeps learning and improving, so you benefit from that too
Trust me, whether you end up with one of their experienced pros, someone who's just finished their training program, or one of us familiar faces, you're going to be absolutely fine. Nicola doesn't let anyone loose on classes until she's 100% confident they're ready!
Want to nosy some of Nicola’s team? Check out her team channel here: https://www.instagram.com/aerial.arts.academy/