Dance Leaders - a partnership activity between students and staff at St Mary's Calne and Heddington Primary School

Throughout the Autumn Term a group of Y10 students have been developing their skills as dance leaders. During the Spring Term they have designed and led dance sessions for students at a Heddington Primary School with the support of their teacher. 

The pupils from Heddington will come down to St Mary's to participate in our annual Dance Show and will perform their routine in the show in front of an audience from both schools. This project has brought together pupils, staff and parents from both school. 

Aims

The aim to was to enable to Senior School pupils to develop their leadership and dance skills. 

The aim for the primary school pupils is to develop their dance skills, experience participation in a Senior School activity and being part of a show. 

We hope that all students will feel pride in their collective achievement which will boost their self-esteem. We also hope that they will all have a lot of fun. 

Background

The St Mary's Dance teacher approached the Head of Community Outreach and Partnerships at St Mary's as she was had a vision of setting up some collaborative dance work. As a meeting had already been scheduled to explore partnership possibilities with the primary school, this particular opportunity was explored. 

This partnership has been developing since Autumn 2021.

Resources

A suitable space is required for rehearsals at one of the schools. We felt it was easier for the Y10 students to do the travelling. Transport from one school to another is required as it is a village school several miles away.

Aside from the cost of transport, a simple costume for the performance and cost of supper on the evening of the performance is provided for the primary school children.

Pupil Involvement

Students from Years 5 and 6 as well as students from Year 10 for the duration of the project. On the evening of the performance the primary school children will be performing alongside pupils from Years 7-9.

Frequency

Preparation during the Autumn Term and minimum 6 week period during the Spring Term for rehearsals and performance.