James began dancing at Harlow Ballet School. A graduate from Central School of Ballet in 1997, James was immediately engaged by Ballett Schindowski, Germany creating and performing solo roles. He choreographed several pieces for children's performances with the company. From June 1999, James worked as a freelance dancer/choreographer in various projects in collaboration with the Choreographisches Zentrum NRW, Essen, including the debut performance of Temper Temper Dance Company. On returning to Britain, James toured with Adonais Ballet Company's production of "Carmen".
He joined SDT in 2000 and was appointed Rehearsal Director in May 2002. In 2004, James choreographed a student piece for Telford College, Edinburgh, and a dance film for SDT in February 2006. James has mentored apprentices on placement from both Northern School of Contemporary Dance and London School of Contemporary Dance. He is coming to the end of a year's mentoring scheme operated by Dance UK to learn skills in producing, commissioning and facilitating dance.