Young dancers to shine at Step Live 2025
On Tuesday 1st July, over one hundred secondary school students from across Greater London will take part in Step Live 2025, one of the biggest annual dance events specifically for secondary school students in the UK.
At Step Live 2025, young people will take to the Cadogan Hall stage to perform a variety of dynamic dance routines that they have learnt on the Step into Dance programme. Step into Dance is a Royal Academy of Dance programme in partnership with the Jack Petchey Foundation, an organisation that empowers young people and widens their opportunities through grant giving and achievement recognition.
Step Live 2025 will feature schools from a wide range of London boroughs: Camden, Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Bexley, Greenwich, Kensington & Chelsea, Southwark, Wandsworth, Barnet, Bromley and Sutton.
RAD’s youth company SYNC will also be performing a piece that is choreographed by Step into Dance practitioners.
Reaching young people
Supporting the development of dance for young people, Step into Dance reaches those from backgrounds that might not otherwise connect with dance. Established in 2006, the programme provides young people with a strong sense of community, confidence and creativity. With one-third of UK schools not teaching dance even though dance is part of the specified national curriculum, Step into Dance programme fulfils a huge need for dance provision.
Step into Dance has a tangible impact on young people. 76% of students participating reported that taking part in the programme has had a positive impact on their mental health, with 85% of young people saying they feel more confident after taking part in the Step into Dance programme.
A celebration of youth
Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of the Royal Academy of Dance says: “Step Live is a powerful celebration of youth, creativity and the transformative power of dance. As one of the largest dance events for secondary school students, it provides a platform for young people to express themselves, build confidence and experience the thrill of performing on a professional stage. The Step into Dance programme is where young people can find their voice – and we’re proud to be part of that journey.”
Gemma Juma, Chief Executive of Jack Petchey Foundation says: “The Jack Petchey Foundation is proud to once again be collaborating with the Royal Academy of Dance on this incredible event. Step Live is the culmination of a year-long programme that gives young people the chance to perform on a prestigious stage. Dance supports young people’s wellbeing and that’s why the programme meant a lot to Sir Jack Petchey CBE. It provides opportunities for young people to build their confidence and skills to reach their full potential as dancers. The young performers have worked so hard, and we are always blown away and I am sure this year will be no different!”
