Following the launch of the new series of Strictly Come Dancing on the 18th of September, Whitegate Primary School welcomed ex Strictly star Robin Windsor to host a day of dancing across all year groups.
The school hall on Monday the 20th of September transformed into a ballroom, with staff and pupils learning the steps and dancing to the music.
Whitegate Primary School, supported by Transform Trust, offers a truly engaging enrichment curriculum for all pupils to enjoy based on equality and their four Trust values: Respect, Kindness, Equality and Creativity. Schools across the UK have seen a renewed focus on physical and mental health, creativity and self-expression to support pupils as they return to a new normal following the Covid-19 pandemic. Dancing is an excellent way for pupils to express themselves creatively and try something new.
Various year groups and teachers from across the school all took part throughout the day in different workshops and concluded with a dance competition to put their newly learnt steps to good use. Four pupils were also chosen to be interviewed by BBC Radio Nottingham and they explained what a positive impact dancing has had on their school.
Robin Windsor, ex Strictly star and professional dancer in Burn the Floor (Broadway and West End) said: “For me, seeing the children’s confidence grow while learning to dance, even in such a short space of time, proves how important it is to allow children the opportunity to explore their creative side. Dance provides everybody with the tools to blossom and shine resulting in a real boost in self-esteem and self-belief. It’s also a fantastic way of keeping both physically and mentally healthy whilst having fun”
Year 3 pupil, Dion, said “it was inspiring” and he was thrilled he remembered the steps that Robin had taught them to show the BBC during the interview. Although some enjoyed it, Summer in Year 3 was also keen to share, when asked live on the radio, that dancing was fun, but their real ambition is to become a scientist.
Their teacher Miss Noel said: “The children absolutely loved it and we watched videos in the morning of Robin on Strictly Come Dancing to get them ready. Robin was so friendly and answered all of our questions as well as letting staff take a selfie with him”
Everyone had a fantastic time learning the steps and the pupils were invited to speak to Robin afterwards about costumes, makeup and other aspects of performance. Whitegate continue to find ways to be creative with their curriculum and to find unique ways for their pupils to learn.
To find out more about Whitegate Primary and Nursery School please visit their website https://www.whitegateprimary.co.uk/ and to find out more about Transform Trust please visit www.transformtrust.co.uk.
