Dance

The study of dance as an art form contributes to students’ aesthetic and social development. As a physical activity it promotes fitness and well being. Dance also supports learning across a range of subjects.

As performers, students develop confidence and self-esteem. They develop self and body awareness as well as sensitivity to others and team-working skills. Effective performance requires physical effort and the determination to succeed and improve. As choreographers, students employ the skills of problem solving and creativity. Effective choreography requires imagination and the ability to synthesise a number of elements. In directing others, students develop their interpersonal and communication skills. As critics, students make informed decisions about the dances they see. They articulate their knowledge, opinions and preferences. Viewing professional dances fulfills students’ cultural entitlement and broadens their artistic experience.

The dance curriculum has been designed to allow our students to aspire, achieve and enjoy.  Students will be encouraged to break down stereotypes and understand how skills can transfer to other settings and subject areas.   The curriculum has been developed to provide opportunities for students to develop their performance and physical skills, as well as understand the place of dance in a professional environment.  Students will also develop their analytical skills through interrogating both professional and live performances in order to support improvements to their own and others work.  Schemes of work have been designed to promote progress in the skills needed as a performer, but also lead clearly into the GCSE dance course. 

The dance curriculum has been developed alongside the other performing arts subjects (drama and music), identifying skills and methods, which correlate across the faculty.  Developing key life skills such as confidence, leadership and teamwork are evident across all schemes of work to support the student’s progress in other subject areas and outside of the school setting. 

Theoretical skills are addressed in all year groups with students learning how to write about dance and their own performances supporting whole school policies.  Students are encouraged to use subject specific terminology and to speak in full sentences in all scenarios.  

Above all, we want students at Maghull High School to enjoy dance, whilst understanding the importance of the skills developed to transfer into numerous settings.