Step Forward - Royal Academy of Dance

Step Forward is our exciting new dance taster series, offered by the Royal Academy of Dance partnership with the Jack Petchey Foundation.

This new programme features 3-hour taster sessions in Hip Hop, Jazz, or Contemporary dance. These workshops provide young people with the opportunity to explore dance, aiming to foster an inclusive environment where all students, especially those new to dance or feeling apprehensive, can thrive.

Step Forward practitioners will integrate well-being practices, teaching young people as ‘whole individuals.’ The primary goal of Step Forward is to ensure that each student leaves the session feeling valued and fulfilled. We will emphasise the four key principles of Encouragement, Growth, Care and Confidence throughout the learning experience.

As part of the Step Forward experience, your school/youth organisation will have the exciting opportunity to work towards a final performance.

Your students will work collaboratively with the practitioner to create a final piece of choreography including all the elements they have learnt throughout the workshop.

The students will work towards performing the piece back to their peers and school teachers/youth workers at the end of the class, so we encourage you to invite as many people as possible to the last part of the workshop.

Additionally, they will get the chance to film their piece at the end of the workshop using equipment available at your school/youth organisation. This recording can then be shared with teachers, youth workers, parents/guardians, and beyond (providing you have gained written consent to do so for all the young people featured).

The programme is for participants aged 11- 18 in schools and youth groups across London and Essex who are new to Step into Dance

Take a look at our Step Forward information pack to learn more about this new programme, and how it would work for your school/ organisation!

View the info pack →

Benefits for young people

Building Life Skills through communication, skills, teamwork, problem-solving, observing and physical interaction.
Enhancing Emotional Wellbeing by building mental resilience and support with students building their self-esteem and confidence.
Improving Physical Health, as Dance builds a positive relationship with the arts and physical activity it can create new avenues for students to be active.
Enriching Cultural Experiences, by learning about the dance styles, history and cultural identity.
Boosting Academic Achievement as dance increases students’ confidence and motivation through other subject areas.

Booking

If you’re interested in getting involved with the Step Forward programme, send an email to stepintodance@rad.org.uk, or sign up using the link below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can take part in Step Forward?

State Schools and Youth Organisations that are new to Step into Dance or have not been a part of Step into Dance in the last 5 years.

Please note we do not work with Private Schools.

Is Step Forward suitable for beginners?

Yes! Step Forward is an inclusive workshop focused on introducing dance to students who have never danced before. It is also suitable for more experienced dancers as all our practitioners are equipped to adapt to the class needs.

What dance styles are taught?

Jazz, Hip Hop or Contemporary Dance.

How many students can participate in each class?

Each class requires a minimum of 12 participants and can accommodate up to 30. We are also happy to make adjustments on a case-by-case basis if needed.

How much does Step Forward Cost?

Thanks to the generous funding of the Jack Petchey Foundation we are able to offer our programme at a heavily subsidised rate of £100.

This fee can be redeemed when booking onto one of our longer programmes after the workshop.

Can Step Forward be a part of a holiday activities camp?

Yes! Step Forward would be a perfect addition to any holiday activities camp.

What do students need to wear?

Comfortable clothing that is suitable for exercise, this can be their P.E kit or joggers, leggings & t-shirt.

Trainers will be required for Hip Hop Dance, but bare feet may be better suited for Contemporary or Jazz.

How do we register?

Please follow the link to the form below, or on the main page. Once the form has been completed a member of the Step into Dance team will get in contact with you.

Where is the Step Forward workshop delivered?

Step Forward will be delivered at your school or youth club. You must have an appropriate space suitable for a dance class to take place available for the duration of the workshop.

Who will teach the Step Forward workshop?

Once you have filled out the registration form, a Step into Dance practitioner will be assigned to you based on your chosen dance style and the students needs. You will get the opportunity to have a meeting with them prior to the workshop.

What age group is Step Forward suited to?

We can deliver classes to young people between 11-18 yrs.

Does it have to be used in a 3-hour block?

No, we can adapt the class to suit the needs of the School or Youth Club. Please get in contact to talk about this further – stepintodance@rad.org.uk.