Teaching Ballet with Care: Inclusive practice for dancers affected by cancer CPD

Develop the knowledge, understanding, and confidence to support individuals affected by cancer. This workshop draws on the innovative Fireflies approach to explore how dance can positively support wellbeing throughout and beyond cancer treatment.

What does it entail

Combining evidence-based oncology with lived experience and holistic support strategies, participants will gain valuable insight into creating safe, compassionate, and empowering dance environments for those affected by cancer.

Through guided discussion, practical exploration and scenario-based learning, teachers will develop strategies to adapt exercises, respond to individual needs and create a supportive studio environment without compromising artistic intent.

N.B This opportunity is open to dance teachers of all ages to attend. It is not a requirement of your attendance to be a Silver Swans Licensee, and we welcome all RAD and non-RAD teachers to enjoy the content with an opportunity to develop their teaching practise and seek support from other teachers working in similar contexts.

The workshop equates to 3 hours Time Valued CPD and is being delivered as part of the wider Silver Swans Celebration 2026.

About the tutors

Natalie Hall BA (Hons), PGCE

Natalie Hall is an RAD teacher and founder of Fireflies Fitness CIC. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019. Dancing throughout her treatment supported her physically and mentally, so once in remission, Natalie embarked on completing her Level 3 Personal Training Diploma and CanRehab Level 4 Cancer Exercise Specialist qualification and founded Fireflies Fitness in June 2022. This merged her worlds as a dance teacher and fitness specialist, with full awareness of the types of exercise that would help benefit others through their cancer treatment.

Prior to this, Natalie enjoyed working around the world as a dancer, vocalist and actress for several years. She has a BA (Hons) in Performing Arts and gained a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for Dance Teaching with the RAD.

Poppy Barnes BA (Hons), MFA, RAD RTS, LRAD

Poppy studied all the RAD Graded and Vocational Ballet Exams up to Advanced 2, continuing her training through the RAD’s Ballet Education BA degree programme. Alongside this, Poppy achieved the Licentiate of the RAD, with Distinction.

In 2019, she joined Natalie’s school Fireflies Dance and has continued to work alongside Natalie to deliver ballet classes to those with cancer across London and nationwide.

Poppy gained her CanRehab Level 4 Cancer Exercise Specialist qualification in 2025. She now leads the Fireflies Ballet for the Cancer Community classes at RAD, as well as teaching for charities Future Dreams and Make 2nds Count. Prior to this, Poppy was awarded an MFA in Dance and Embodied Practice at the University of Roehampton, in 2023.

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