McHale Academy of Irish Dancing

Congratulations to Catrina Millet on a fantastic performance at the Scottish Nationals!

Catrina finished 12th overall in the Senior Ladies Championship, with an incredible 5th place in her set dance — a brilliant achievement and a testament to all of your hard work and dedication.

Well done, Catrina! 👏

Congratulations to Joseph Corcoran at the Scottish Nationals!

Joseph placed 6th in the U11 Boys Championship, securing qualification for the 2027 World Irish Dancing Championships in Belfast.

A great achievement and a reward for all of your hard work and dedication. Wishing you the very best as you prepare for Worlds next year!

Well done, Joseph! 👏

A year ago, we were holding our breath.

After three open-heart surgeries at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Darragh Joe faced his final operation with a smile that inspired everyone around him.

Before that surgery, he couldn’t walk for more than 30 seconds without needing to stop and catch his breath. His little heart simply couldn’t deliver the oxygen his body needed.

Today, 12 months later, that same little boy has been crowned Scottish National Under-6 Mixed Champion.

What a difference a year can make.

We will never be able to thank the incredible surgeons, nurses, doctors and staff at Birmingham Children's Hospital and Charity enough. Their skill, compassion and dedication gave our little boy the chance to run, play, compete, and simply be a child.

Last year, we prayed for a healthy heart.

This year, we watched that heart carry him to a national title.

To everyone who has supported Darragh Joe McHale throughout this journey — thank you. Every message, every prayer, every kind word has meant more than you’ll ever know.

Some victories are measured in medals.

The greatest victory was watching him cross the finish line that once felt impossible. 💙🏆

2026 Scottish National Oireachtas

🏆✨ What an incredible day for our dancers at McHale Academy – we couldn’t be prouder! ✨🏆

A huge congratulations to our U6 Champions at the London Open Championships:

🥇 Darragh Joe McHale – 1st Place
🥈 Millie Jameson – 2nd Place

An amazing achievement for both dancers, with Darragh winning both solos and Millie taking 2nd place in both solos 👏👏

A special mention to Darragh, who finished an outstanding day with a perfect score 💯 💯 💯 overall in the Championship 🌟🔥

And congratulations also to Ella Jameson on a fantastic achievement, placing 6th in the U10 Championship 👏💫

At McHale Academy, we are so proud of all of our dancers – your hard work, dedication, and talent continue to shine every time you step on stage. 💚✨

🏆 ARIA CHAPMAN - APPS - U13 PRELIM CHAMPION 🏆

Brilliant performance on Sunday, Aria!!! We are so proud of you!! Keep working hard!🌟

POPPY WEBSTER - U12 PRELIM 🥈

You were beautiful on Sunday, Poppy and taking 1st place overall in your set dance!! We are so proud of you!! Keep working hard! 🌟

NIAMH NAUGHTON - GARNER 🏅

Top 5 places in her U9 Intermediate dances!! You were brilliant on Sunday Niamh!! We are so proud of you!! Keep working hard! 🌟

DARRAGH JOE MCHALE U6 MIXED CHAMPION 🏆

Winner of both solos and the open grades! You are a true champion Darragh! We are so so proud of you!! 🌟