Children’s & Youth Class Information

Our classes are designed to give children and young people an inspirational and fun first step into dance – they are non-exam orientated and dancers progress by age to the next level, enabling them to follow a unique and age appropriate dance pathway.  Most classes are Bookable. The majority of Bookable classes do not run during half term breaks – please check with your class teacher. 

We believe that the cost of participating in our dance classes and events should not be a barrier to participation.  If fees are an issue for you please contact reception to see how we can help.

WHAT TO WEAR
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that you can move in freely. Choice of footwear depends on dance style. Start with something lightweight and comfortable. For some classes, bare feet are preferable.

YOUTH PROGRAMME (11 – 16yrs)

Our Youth Programme is designed to give dancers an inspirational and fun first step into dance with opportunities to take part in weekly technique classes, youth groups and performance projects led by skilled teachers. Young people can find their own unique pathway at Swindon Dance whether they want to dance for fun, fitness or enjoyment.

GENERAL
Suitable for dancers who have some experience and knowledge in style.

BALLET
The classes are designed to be fun, exploration of ballet technique that will aid the development of posture, coordinator, balance and strength. A fantastic way to improve fitness and discover the artistry and fitness of classical dance. Accompanied by live musician.

CONTEMPORARY
Energetic and stimulating class teaching the principles and foundation of contemporary dance encouraging creativity and musicality. Learn basic technique and movement vocabulary; development strength, coordination and confidence and wrap it all up inspiring movement sequences.

TAP
A chance to learn and improve the technique of tap in the current American Rhythmical style. Weekly classes involve rhythmical and creative exercises to allow young people to express their musicality as well as learning the fundamental skills of tapping. A fun and creative hour of tapping!!!

JAZZ

Inspirational and dynamic classes offering children the chance to learn the latest moves as seen on TV! A mix of exciting footwork, sharp movements and funky beats!

JUST FOR KICKS

A non-auditioned group for boys and girls aged 9-13 years. It offers an exciting range and fusion of Dance styles and opportunities to create and perform.

JUST FOR BOYS

An all boys youth dance company who meet weekly working creatively through contemporary dance as well as introducing other dance styles to create performance pieces. A highly physical, fun and motivational dance company where boys can be boys.

CHILDREN’S CLASSES for ages 18 months – 10 years

Our Children’s Classes are designed to give an inspirational and fun first step into dance – they are non-exam orientated and dancer’s progress by age and ability to the next class, enabling them to follow a unique and age appropriate dance pathway.

CHILDREN’S BALLET
The classes are a fun and engaging way of learning the early steps of classical ballet and a great way for children to develop coordinator, balance and agility. Children are encouraged to use their imaginative skills and develop rhythm, musicality and expressive skills.

CHILDREN’S TAP
Children will learn the fundamentals of tap, using a range of technical and creative exercises in an American percussive style.

PARENTS AND TOTS
A fun creative class where tots and their parents explore movement together through rhymes, stories and imaginary visits to the circus or under the sea!  Classes aid social skills, confidence, cognitive and physical development. Accompanied by a musician.

STREET JAM
Fun filled, energetic street dance classes where children collide with funky beats and hip hop feet. A dynamic combination of learning the latest street and hip hop techniques and high energy sequences.

MOVERS PROGRAMME

Lively dance classes focusing on movement, musicality, physicality and fun. Classes emphasise the development of children inspring them to explore their creativity and imagination while developing cognitive, social and emotional skills.

JAZZ

Inspirational and dynamic classes offering children the chance to learn the latest moves as seen on TV! A mix of exciting footwork, sharp movements and funky beats!

JUST FOR BOYS

Boys only dance group – highly energetic and motivational group – our all boys class provides a physical, entertaining and creative experience for all. Group meets weekly working creatively through contemporary dance as well as introducing other dance styles to create performance pieces.

 

Our talent development programmes offer opportunities for the individual to develop their technical, creative and expressive dance skills, providing them with their next steps in dance and a pathway to vocational training. All Talent Development programmes are entered through annual auditions.

STEPS2 (9 – 12yrs)  

NEXT AUDITION: 2024

STEPS2 provides the pathway for aspiring children to develop their dance skills and natural ability, encouraging potential and preparing them for the next steps. STEPS2 helps children develop physical confidence, inspires creativity, musicality and performance skills. STEPS2 encourages development in contemporary, ballet and jazz dance. STEPS2 is taught by two core tutors plus guest teachers. Entry by audition. For more info contact the Education Team on 01793 601707.

SWINDON YOUTH DANCE  COMPANY (SYDCo) 13 – 19yrs       

NEXT AUDITION: 2024

Swindon Youth Dance Company (SYDCo) is Swindon Dance flagship contemporary performance company. It offers technical, choreographic and extensive performance opportunities across the South West and provides a unique pathway for aspiring young dancers and artists. For more info contact the Education Team on 01793 601700.

THE ROYAL BALLET SCHOOL (RBS) PRIMARY STEPS

The Primary Steps partnership is funded by the DfE and run by the RBS Dance Partnership and Access Programme with Swindon Dance. Primary Steps is a national junior school programme which aims to provide year 3-6 class groups with a positive introduction to ballet. Every Autumn Primary Steps provides year 3 pupils in 6 local Swindon Schools with access to a first experience in dance.

CENTRE FOR ADVANCED TRAINING (CAT) 11-17yrs – SEE CAT PAGE FOR AUDITION DATES AND INFO

The CAT helps identify and assist young people with exceptional potential regardless of their personal circumstances, to benefit from world-class specialist training as part of a broad and balanced education. This will enable them, if they choose to proceed towards self-sustaining careers in dance. The CAT runs three programmes: Swindon Contemporary, Swindon Urban and Exeter Contemporary. For more info contact – cat@swindondance.org.uk