Young people show off their dancing skills at Step Around Town 2026

Young people from 19 London boroughs and a town in Essex, Braintree, took part in dance performances across Greater London in April and May.

The events took place in schools, ensuring local communities experience the power of dance in an accessible, inclusive way. The schools were based in five London boroughs: Wandsworth, Bexley, Westminster, Camden and Croydon.

State and SEND school students performed the dance routines that they have learnt on the Step into Dance programme, with dance styles including Afro, contemporary, hip-hop and more.  

Step Around Town is one of several events created by the Step into Dance programme, the UK’s largest inclusive dance programme for secondary school students in London and Essex. Established in 2006, Step into Dance is a Royal Academy of Dance programme in partnership with the Jack Petchey Foundation. 

At a time where 84% of schools no longer offer a GCSE in dance, Step into Dance enables young people to develop their passion, skills and understanding of dance.  

Working with mainstream and SEND schools and youth groups, Step into Dance reaches over 4,000 students annually through a diverse and inclusive programme of weekly classes, workshops and performance opportunities, aiming to reach those that might not otherwise connect with dance.  

The programme provides a wealth of opportunities for young people – boys in particular. Dance has numerous benefits for boys and young men including improved confidence, self-esteem and discipline.  

Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of the Royal Academy of Dance said: 

“At each Step Around Town performance, it is a joy to see the next young people engaging and expressing themselves through dance. The events are uplifting, inclusive, and energetic, bringing people together in a true celebration of what dance can be.” 

Photos: Alex Ferrelly