Teach Secondary Issue 14.3

W hen it comes to PE, dance can at times feel a bit like the awkward cousin at the party – hanging out on the sidelines while football, rugby and athletics hog the spotlight. However, more schools are now discovering that incorporating dance into their PE or extracurricular programmes doesn’t just get students moving – it builds fitness, coordination and confidence in ways that other sports often can’t match. Fuss-free fitness Not all students thrive amid the competitive atmosphere of team sports. Dance instead offers a different physical challenge focused on movement, rhythm and expression, rather than beating an opponent. A 2022 study published in the journal Frontiers in Physiology (see tiny.cc/ ts143-D1) highlighted how frequent participation in dance enhances overall fitness levels – from improvements in sleep quality, to increased bone mineral density – particularly among students who may not otherwise want, or be able to engage in traditional sports. In other words, dance isn’t just about graceful moves; it’s a genuine full body workout. Unlike more structured sports, dance allows students to engage at their own level and pace. Whether they’re mastering a complex routine, or simply feeling the music, they’re building strength and stamina without the pressure of a scoreboard. That sense of freedom and creativity canmake all the Founded in 2000, BalletBoyz specialises in creating dance that blends music, visual arts, design and film on stage, on screen and through education; for more information, visit balletboyz.com or follow @balletboyz (Insta) Time to move Arts charity BalletBoyz makes the case for why organised dance sessions can provide a welcome boost to your students’ fitness and confidence levels difference for students who might otherwise shy away from traditional PE. Dance floor confidence Physical benefits aside, dance can also have a remarkable effect on confidence and mental wellbeing. Moving to music, especially in groups, encourages self-expression and trust. Students learn how to work together, support each other and take creative risks, all while stepping out of their comfort zones (sometimes literally). The research backs this up: a 2011 study in Research in Dance Education found that adolescent girls who participated in regular dance sessions reported higher levels of self-esteem and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression (see tiny.cc/ ts143-D2). The combination of physical activity, creative expression and social interaction undoubtedly boosts mental health. For many students, dance provides a safe space in which they can express themselves without fear of judgment. The focus shifts from ‘winning’ to ‘feeling’, which is often where real personal growth happens. Making dancework So, how to tap into the benefits of dance without overhauling your entire PE programme? The good news is that dance is easy to slot into existing structures, be it as part of the curriculum, an after-school club or even a lunchtime drop-in session. This is where resources like MoovBank.com come in handy. Created by the contemporary dance company BalletBoyz, MoovBank is a free online platformhosting educational dance resources specifically designed for PE and dance teachers, with a library of choreographed routines, teaching tips and creative exercises. It’s ideal for teachers who want to give dance a go without starting from scratch. Dance also lends itself well to cross-curricular projects, being a natural bridge between the arts and sport. You could explore the history of street dance in a cultural studies lesson, or use contemporary dance to interpret a poem being studied in English – the possibilities are endless. With the rise of social media platforms like TikTok, students are already enthusiastically engaging with dance in their free time – so why not harness that existing interest in a positive and structured way? Astep in the right direction The beauty of dance lies in its accessibility and inclusivity. It welcomes students of all abilities, encourages creativity and builds physical and mental strength in equal measure. Whether through structured PE lessons or spontaneous lunchtime dance-offs, introducing dance to your school setting can give students a chance to move, express themselves and grow in confidence—all while having fun. So when you’re next reviewing your PE curriculum or planning an extracurricular club, why not give dance a try? Your students – and their stress levels – will thank you for it. 57 teachwire.net/secondary P H Y S I C A L E D U C AT I O N