What we do
We believe that every child and young person in Scotland should have access to opportunities in dance that help them realise who they are and what they can do. We believe it’s a fundamental right that every child and young person should be able to participate in, learn through, watch and connect with dance at a local and national level.
We work with passion to ensure that the youth dance and education sectors have the skills and knowledge to provide transformational opportunities alongside the YDance programmes across the country and advocate for the huge benefits of dance with government, policymakers and councils and within a range of sectors.
We aim:
To lead, shape and support the growth of dance for children and young people in Scotland, embedding equality, diversity, inclusion and well-being at the core of our work
To work with key partners to provide an inclusive and creative programme of dance that creates pathways to nurture and support young people to develop transferable life skills
To embed dance as a key component in children’s education and learning
To advocate for the impact and role of children’s and young peoples’ dance with cultural, educational, and governmental agencies
To represent excellence and share best practice in youth dance from Scotland on the national and international stage
To make sustainable and strategic change across all areas of the work to address the climate emergency
YDance achieves these ambitions by providing a local and national programme across four strategic areas: Engage, Perform, Learn and Connect to increase access to the power and joy of dance.
YDance Awards
YDance has been recognised as a leader in the field of Youth Dance in the UK, receiving two One Dance UK Awards. In 2018, the award for Inspiring Work in Education recognised the range of work the company provides in dance education across Scotland, and in 2021, the Research in Dance Award recognised the research work undertaken as part of the Shake It Up primary education programme.
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We create a range of projects and opportunities to increase access to dance for underrepresented young people across Scotland to develop physical, social and cognitive skills.
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We create projects, performances and workshops that cultivate creativity, support growth and ensure progression routes for young dancers.
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We create and develop CLPL opportunities, resources and trainee programmes which develop teaching practice and enhance knowledge and skills for emerging and experienced dance artists and teachers.
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We work to raise the profile and awareness of the benefits of dance nationally and internationally through our youth advisory group, publications, research, conferences and events.
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