Tributes pour in for adored Thatcham dance teacher, ‘beautiful Bethany’
Tributes are pouring in for an adored dance teacher who took her own life earlier this month.
Bethany Privett, who was 24-years-old, owned Linden School of Dance and taught many people, young and old, in West Berkshire.
She died in the early hours of March 2, at her Thatcham home, following a long battle with her mental health.
Bethany – who was one of three siblings – had experiences with depression and anxiety growing up and was known to mental health services.
But she poured her soul into dance, something she had loved since she was two-years-old.
In 2022, Linden School of Dance held a charity Tapathon at Kennet School, raising £141 for Children in Need.
At the time, Bethany received a letter of congratulations from Laura Farris, after the Newbury MP saw her fundraising efforts in the paper.
Her mother Tracy, who has two other children aged 22 and 26, said she also did a great deal of work, herself, for children’s mental health.
“She was really dedicated to developing their self-esteem and helping them manage their anxiety,” she said.
Despite getting up every day with a smile on her face and teaching dance, she was fighting battles people didn’t know about, said her friend of 14-years Jade Wilder.
An inquest into Bethany’s death will be held at a later date.
Her family said Berkshire Healthcare Foundation Trust will also be conducting a Serious Incident Review.
Miss Wilder, who was a constant presence in Bethany’s life, through the ups and the downs, said: “Bethany is going to be remembered as a very kind, very strong, caring friend, daughter and sister.
“She never failed to put anybody else’s needs above her own. She had a huge impact on children and adults at Linden School of Dance and through her other charitable work.
“She was fearless, she taught me how to stay strong and she would challenge things if they were not right.
“She will be hugely missed.”
Bethany’s predecessor as owner of Linden School of Dance, Linden Ellicott, who also taught the 24-year-old for many years, said: “She was a conscientious, focused, talented and caring dance student who developed into a passionate teacher.
“She inspired her students to work hard, cared deeply about each individual, in both their dance journey and their health and wellbeing, and she encouraged them to be the best dancer they could be.
“She could be bubbly and fun, was dedicated and reliable, and her enthusiasm infectious. She leaves an enormous hole in so many lives. A beautiful soul who created a special bond with us all.”
Catherine, 16, was taught by Bethany for four years and said: “Bethany was one of the most inspirational people in my life and always will be.
“Not only was she one of the funniest people I had known but she was also so caring to everyone who she met.
“It is impossible to put into words just how much of an amazing person and role model she was, and I’ll love you always and thank you for everything you’ve ever done for me.”
Catherine’s mother Ruth Jones attended adult classes in tap and ballet. She said: “Bethany took an interest in all her students as individuals and always tried to help us however she could.
“She wasn’t only my dance teacher, she was a good friend and I will miss her.”
Bethany worked with Thatcham Town Council for the Family Fun Day, both in 2021 and 2022.
Event organiser John Sackett said, on behalf of the council: “We were very sorry to hear the news about Bethany.
“She was a pleasure to work with, highly professional in her dealings with us and ensured that her company delivered to a high standard of dance.
“I am sure she will be sadly missed by her dance pupils and colleagues.”
Friend and mother of one of Bethany’s dance students Michelle Sheppard said: “Beautiful Bethany was a petite ball of fun and energy, with the most beautiful warm smile.
“She had an amazing connection with her dancers, who all adored her.
“She knew each and every one of them. Bethany took the time to get to know her girls, their likes, dislikes and interests.
“She had a particularly special bond with my daughter and they shared many a memory which Ava will treasure forever.”
Despite Bethany’s experience, her family and friends are urging anyone suffering to speak out and access support.
Anyone seeking support can contact the following organisations:
Time to Talk: www.t2twb.org or call (01635) 760331. You can also find help and advice on the charity’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (all @t2twb) or by emailing hello@t2twb.org
You can visit www.recoveryinmind.org and find a number of resources to help you look after your mental health.
Eight Bells for Mental Health: www.eightbellsnewbury.co.uk – call 07387 962220 – email coordinator@eightbellsnewbury.co.uk
Mental Health Crisis Team – call if you need urgent help, but it’s not an emergency 0300 365 0300 or 0300 365 9999
Sane Line – www.sane.org.uk – call 0300 304 700
Childline: www.childline.org.uk – 0800 1111
Mind: www.mind.org.uk – 0300 123 3393 or text 86463
The Samaritans: www.samaritans.org – call 116 123 – email jo@samaritans.org
