Back to the studio: Insights from three dance schools using Primary Steps on Demand 

As the new school year approaches in September, dance educators prepare to welcome their students back to the studio. Our online learning platform, Primary Steps on Demand (PSOD), has proven invaluable in this process. Primary Steps on Demand offers a flexible on-demand programme, bringing high-quality dance education from The Royal Ballet School to primary school children worldwide. Initially created for primary schools, the programme has now expanded into numerous dance schools globally, with teachers incorporating it into their lessons in a range of ways. 

With comprehensive materials, including video classes, lesson plans, pupil resources, and ongoing advice and support, educators can provide exceptional dance instruction without needing prior teaching experience in dance.   

We spoke with three dance schools: Anthea from Anthea M King School of Dancing in Wales, Niki Tiganitaki from En Roi Dance School in Greece, and Dawn Chapman from DC Dance & Performing Arts in Todmorden. They use the programme to prepare their students during the summer break and help them transition into the school year. 

How long have you been using Primary Steps on Demand? How has the programme benefited your school?  

Anthea: We’ve been using the programme since July 2022. Post-Covid, we adopted a holistic approach to our dance classes, utilising an outdoor area. Primary Steps on Demand complements this approach perfectly. It’s primarily benefited our children with special educational needs, enhancing their creativity and well-being. Mainstream primary students, aged seven, also thrive with the programme, enjoying modules like Science/Balance and Art/Creativity.  

The Continued Professional Development (CPD) sessions have been invaluable for us teachers, helping us refine our approach. Primary Steps on Demand has instilled a renewed love for ballet in many students, who proudly earn certificates upon completing the programme.  

Niki: I started using the programme two years ago, and my students absolutely love it. PSOD provides them with a sense of self-exploration, freedom of movement, and genuine joy. It’s been a transformative tool for my teaching. 

Dawn: I’ve been using Primary Steps on Demand since June this year. The children are so engaged with the programme, and it breaks down fundamental ballet skills in a way that’s easy for them to understand. Our younger teachers have also found it to be an invaluable teaching resource. 

What advice do you give students to maintain their dance practice over the summer break?  

Anthea: Maintaining dance fitness is crucial. We recommend outdoor sports, hiking, and swimming, which offer great cross-training benefits. To stay connected, we run a ‘Summer Dance Anywhere’ challenge, encouraging students to share their dance poses or movements online. Additionally, we host a coffee morning before our September return, fostering community spirit and supporting charity.  

Dawn: Our school offers general summer classes for children who aren’t away on holiday and summer schools that allow them to try different dance styles. The Primary Steps worksheets are excellent for recapping what they’ve learned, helping them retain their skills over the break. 

How do you help students transition back into a structured dance routine after the summer? 

Anthea: We use engaging activities and a dance class roadmap to reduce anxiety, especially in our younger students. Juniors start with a fun warm-up, while teenagers begin with a chat to express their feelings before diving into more challenging choreographic routines. PSOD’s structure helps in easing them back into the routine. 

Niki: After the holidays, PSOD is my go-to for reintroducing students to the artistic side of dance in a creative way. It’s a gentle yet effective transition into the new school year.   

Dawn: We plan to use Primary Steps for all our junior students as they return in September. The programme is energising yet calming, making it the perfect end to a session. The children—and their parents—love that they’re learning from various teachers, including those from The Royal Ballet School. 

How do you use PSOD in your school?  

Anthea: PSOD is a key part of our curriculum, especially for students aged 7 to 8. We incorporate it into our cross-curricular approach, blending elements of maths, geography, art, and music into our dance classes. The programme deeply engages our students, enhancing their creative skills and overall knowledge. For us teachers, the lesson plans are a game-changer. 

Niki: I use PSOD with my younger students, who love the freedom it gives them. They enjoy expressing themselves without being overly focused on technique and thrive on collaborating with their peers, using their imagination and trying new things. 

Ready to elevate your dance education? Explore Primary Steps on Demand today and bring the artistry of The Royal Ballet School to your classroom.