In Leeds, girls are significantly more inactive than boys, with less than half of all girls meeting the 60 minutes a day recommendation.  Dance could be one way of addressing this gap.  As well as being fun, social, creative and inclusive, evidence indicates that it can have a positive effect on mental health and well being, with a particular impact on brain function and memory.

To support teachers to plan and implement a dance curriculum, as part of the Programme of Study for PE, ArtForms Arts Development, working with Active Schools+ and Northern Arts Factory has developed a Dance CPD programme for primary teachers.

The network is for teachers who may not be dance specialists, but are teaching dance in their school.  Over the course of the school year, there will be three training sessions led by Northern Arts Factory (Autumn Term: 1 x full day; Spring Term: 1 x half day; Summer Term: 1 x half day).  Each session can be purchased individually on a PAYG basis. Alternatively you can book the training as a package of three at a cost of £380 (saving £110).

Session One: Curriculum Planning: Dance, 3rd October 2019, 9am – 4pm will focus on how to implement a rich and engaging Dance curriculum in school which supports pupil’s progression and assessment.  Two key stands will be explored:
– Learning in dance – children engaged in the process of understanding dance as an art form in its own right, including different styles and techniques, choreography and how we experience dance as an audience.
– Learning through Dance – children experiencing dance as a vehicle to develop their learning and understanding across the curriculum.

Session Two: Let’s Dance, 17th March 2020, 1pm – 4pm will consider after school dance clubs; practical implementation and how the content of after school clubs can support and enhance classroom delivery.

Session Three: Inspired Dance, 24th June 2020, 1pm – 4pm will explore dance from other cultures and how dance can be used as a way of developing cultural understanding.

Follow the above links to book individual sessions. To book all three sessions and access the discount price please see this guidance document.  For further information or help with booking a place please contact jane.zanzottera@leeds.gov.uk