Dance

The Dance department at Harris Garrard Academy is committed to providing a challenging and engaging dance education that encourages students to create, question and learn through Dance.

There is a skills-based approach (perform, choreograph, critically appreciate) to the study of dance that enables students to learn by doing. Practical and theoretical knowledge is learned as a result of developing these skills.

There is a commitment to developing physical literacy and developing communication through dance. There is also emphasis on developing mental skills and attributes and wider skill sets such as problem solving and team working skills.

Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2)

Foundations of Movement and Expression

In Key Stage 1, pupils develop the basic building blocks of dance. They learn fundamental physical skills such as hopping, jumping, balancing, and travelling in different ways. Children begin to explore simple dance ideas, including motifs, unison, stillness, and expressive movement. They take part in short routines, practise performing to an audience, and begin to evaluate their own and others’ work using simple language. This stage focuses on confidence, creativity, and physical awareness.

Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6)

Developing Dance Vocabulary and Creativity

Pupils expand their movement abilities by improving agility, balance, coordination, and control. They learn to respond creatively to different stimuli such as poems, images, and themes. Key dance concepts—including canon, formations, mirroring, and group collaboration—are introduced and practised. Students begin to use technical vocabulary (e.g., posture, precision) and develop early performance-evaluation skills through peer and self-assessment. This stage strengthens creativity and teamwork while laying foundations for more technical dance work.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9)

Technical Skill and Genre Exploration

Students deepen their technical dance skills and learn about safe practice, including basic anatomy, hydration, and nutrition. They explore a range of dance styles such as Samba, Modern, Afro, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Commercial, learning the distinctive qualities of each. Choreographic devices—including motif development, contrast, climax, and intention—are taught in greater depth. Pupils analyse professional dance works and reflect more critically on performance and choreography, developing both practical and theoretical understanding.

Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11)

Professional Practice and Performance Development

At this stage, students engage with the discipline and expectations of the performing arts industry. They take part in structured rehearsal processes, consider roles and responsibilities within a production (including design and health & safety), and refine technical and expressive skills. Students interpret stimuli or themes in response to set briefs, creating original work. Regular performances, written evaluations, and reflective practice prepare them for further study or vocational pathways in dance and the wider performing arts sector.

For further details of our curriculum please contact Natasha Baker-Wells N.Baker-Wells@harrisgarrard.org.uk.

Click HERE to download the Dance curriculum overview