ISTD President Shirley Ballas joined us to show how Dance can be taught in schools to improve pupils’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being, as part of their PE and extra-curricular activities.
Dance can be incorporated into the classroom easily, and can lead to many benefits including the improvement of physical and mental health, as well as strengthening social connections.
ISTD President Shirley Ballas participated in some classes in Brixton to show just some of the benefits.
The Queen of Latin visited Corpus Christi Primary School in Brixton to show how schools could improve their pupils’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being by offering dance lessons as part of their PE and extra-curricular activities.
“Dance is inclusive – everybody can take part, regardless of their age, gender, ability or fitness level – schools can provide that link to enable children to dance."
“The benefits are enormous for our well-being. It’s a wonderful way to socialise and forge friendships, and reduce loneliness, and is a great addition to traditional sports lessons. If schools were to bring in a trained teacher to offer safe, structured dance lessons, I think pupils and the school would reap the rewards immediately.” Shirley said.
During the dance session, Shirley partnered with the ISTD’s Malcolm Hill to teach the children some Cha-Cha-Cha moves. Pupil Jimi Powell, aged nine, who is a huge Strictly Come Dancing fan, said: "I think dance is important because it can express your emotions and release your happiness. It also keeps you fit and it's fun to do. I’ve loved dancing with Shirley today.”
"Dance is a wonderful outlet that enables people to connect and express themselves, and I feel passionate that more children should have the opportunity to experience and enjoy it."
Co-Headteacher Jean Connery said the school provides dance lessons and clubs to pupils, which have proved hugely popular. "We’ve found that dance is a wonderful way to include all children – classes can be adapted to suit their ability – and it boosts overall well-being, builds teamwork and friendships, and is just really great fun,” said Jean.
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