By the 1980s, the Speech & Drama section had expanded, and the Choral, Instrumental and Piano sections were all now smaller. Country dancing disappeared (reflecting its demise in schools) but was replaced by 'Dance in Education', a non-competitive section.

Edward Heath remained our President until 1988 when Mr. (now Sir) Roger Gale MP kindly took over.

1989 saw the first classes for 'Theatre' dance; now the biggest section.