Dance

DANCE

Department Staff and Responsibilities

Miss A Thorpe – Teacher Dance
Linked Governor – D Liggett

“You see the children progress, the children grow. The confidence the children have and the support they get is amazing. It seems to get bigger and better each year. Dance at Bedford is remarkable!” Nicola Cannon

Welcome to the Bedford High School Dance Department – Where Passion Meets Excellence

At Bedford High School, our Dance Department is a thriving community of creativity, discipline, and artistic expression. Renowned for its exceptional instruction, outstanding performances, and commitment to student growth, our department empowers dancers of all levels to reach their fullest potential. Whether you’re stepping onto the stage for the first time or refining your craft for a future in the arts, Bedford’s dance provision offers the perfect balance of technical training, innovative choreography, and an environment that inspires excellence.

Our Vision – “Everyone can dance”

At Bedford High School, we are committed to ensuring that all students have access to high-quality dance education as part of the school curriculum. Dance is introduced through PE and Drama at Key Stage 3 and offered as BTEC Tech Award option at Key Stage 4. Our lessons are designed to be dynamic and engaging, with a strong focus on developing creative thinking through movement. Students explore a variety of dance genres and styles, while also gaining experience in choreography and dance appreciation. Through individual and group work, students build confidence, develop performance skills, and are encouraged to express themselves creatively. Our vision is to nurture “thinking dancers” — individuals who grow both artistically and physically, where creativity and movement go hand in hand

Extra-Curricular Activities

The Dance Department offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities each week, open to all year groups. We run clubs tailored to specific year levels, as well as mixed-age sessions that encourage collaboration and inspire students to learn from one another. For those looking to take their training further, we also run an audition-based performance group, which regularly represents the school at events beyond the classroom. All of our clubs have the opportunity to perform in our annual showcase, ‘Bedford Does Dance’, a highlight of the school year. Our extra-curricular timetable is shared with students each term and is also available on the school’s Facebook page.

Key Stage 4 – Technical Award in Performing Arts (Dance)

This course is open to all students, regardless of their previous dance experience or ability. It consists of three units of work. The first is a written coursework assignment that explores the performing arts industry. The second focuses on learning and performing a piece of professional choreography, while developing individual skills and techniques. The final unit challenges students to respond to a set brief by creating and performing their own original choreography.

Subject Intent and Learning Journey

The following link outlines what students will learn at each stage of their journey at Bedford in Dance. This includes the key knowledge, skills and concepts they will encounter through their exciting and aspirational journey in Dance. Dance Curriculum Intent and Learning Journey

How You Can Support Your Child in Dance

• Encourage your child to regularly practise at home to reinforce the practical elements of the course.

• Promote excellent attendance at school, including participation in after-school clubs, events, and trips related to dance.

• Ensure your child is fully equipped for each lesson — this includes wearing appropriate dance kit (leggings and a black t-shirt or Bedford Dance t-shirt) for practical sessions, and bringing all necessary materials for theory lessons.

• Support your child in creating effective revision resources to help consolidate their learning from class.

• Make sure homework is completed on time and to the best of their ability.

• If you have any questions or concerns regarding Dance at Bedford, please don’t hesitate to contact Miss Thorpe at a.thorpe@bedford.wigan.sch.uk.