Academically, it is taught at Key Stage Three as part of PE, and at GCSE level. It is an incredibly rewarding option. It requires commitment and dedication, as well as an open and creative mind. Dance is a distinct art form, which has its own history, body of knowledge, aesthetic values, cultural contexts and artistic productions.

GCSE Dance is taught after school as an additional subject, enabling the girls to gain an extra GCSE in this performing art. Girls can choose to start the course in Year 9 or Year 10, and complete it in two years. It is not just about learning and copying routines, but the study of dance as a whole art form. The course is made up on 40% Theory, studying a critical appreciation of choreographic processes and performing skills; 30% performance and 30% choreography. We train mostly in contemporary technique to improve performance skills, but any style of dance can be used to influence the girls’ choreography. Both practical and written work is undertaken each week so each lesson requires an active body and a creative mind.

Taught in our performing arts venue, the Sophie Cameron Centre, and in our specialist Dance Studio, the girls benefit from top quality facilities, such as barres, mirrors, a portable dance floor and a strong sound system. The close-knit, small group nature of our GCSE dance lessons enables teaching to be personalised to the strengths and interests of the individuals in the class. All abilities are well catered for, with girls of varying levels of experience being stretched and challenged throughout the course.

Each year, the GCSE dance group are always included in the brilliant GDST Day of Dance event, where schools from across the UK have an opportunity to perform and show what they have learned during their course. This is a great chance for the girls to perform on a large stage in front of a big audience. The girls also perform in our annual Dance Show, giving the audience an insight into the creative world of this course.