Dance
Dance is a vibrant and popular subject. It is taught in a specialist dance studio with a fully sprung floor, professional dance flooring and large mirrors.
The study of dance as an art form contributes to pupils’ aesthetic and social development. As a physical activity it promotes fitness and wellbeing. Dance provides opportunities for pupils to develop their physical skills as well as stimulating their creative, emotional and intellectual capacities. The programme of study is based on the interrelated processes of performance, choreography and critical appreciation.
The highlight for many dance enthusiasts is the biennial dance show which takes place at the Arlington Arts Theatre. This lively and exciting performance celebrates dancing achievement across all genres and provides a fantastic showcase for the superb individual talent we have within the school. The event includes solo and group recitals from Year 3 upwards, alongside performances from GCSE pupils, who choreograph, direct and dance in their own pieces.
We also offer a wide variety of exciting dance clubs aimed at absolute beginners, looking to get involved in dance for the first time, to elite companies for the most experienced dancers. Pupils can gain an understanding of a wide range of dance styles, from contemporary dance through to street dance and ballet.
Year 7-9 Dance
Pupils engage in a huge variety of dance styles throughout Year 7 - Year 9, developing their knowledge, skills and understanding of dance as an art form. Dance plays a key part in contemporary culture and pupils study a wide range of professional works which reflect the diverse and exciting nature of this subject. At the beginning of each half term a new professional work is introduced with which pupils engage physically, emotionally and intellectually. The course is underpinned by the three elements of dance: choreography, performance and appreciation. Pupils can explore their own movement ideas through a range of creative tasks which often link to professional works.
Challenge & Extension: There is a wide range of co-curricular events and lessons, designed to inspire and challenge, including ballet clubs, professional dance company workshops and regular trips to the theatre to see live dance performances.
Year 10-11 Dance GCSE
The study of dance as an art form contributes to pupils’ aesthetic and social development. As a physical activity it promotes fitness and wellbeing. The course provides opportunities for pupils to develop further their physical skills as well as stimulating their creative, emotional, and intellectual capacities. The programme of study is based on the interrelated processes of performance, choreography and critical appreciation.
The biennial dance show, which takes place at Arlington Arts Theatre, provides a platform for GCSE pupils to showcase their work. This exciting and vibrant event is a celebration of this empowering and powerful art form.
Challenge & Extension: There is a wide range of co-curricular events and lessons designed to inspire and challenge all pupils. These include the opportunity to audition for the Senior School dance company, Angelis, and participate in an enriching programme of weekly contemporary dance classes and performance opportunities. Visiting professional dance companies provide new and challenging dance material for pupils to learn and these are often linked to visits to the theatre to see live dance performances.
