Inspiring futures through creative partnerships: Leicestershire Virtual School and Care to Dance

“Leicestershire Virtual School are delighted to be working with our amazing partners Care to Dance. Following on from the successful 12 week programme last term, our youngsters are now all engaged in a 12 month programme and the group continue to thrive. Our Leicestershire Stars have formed wonderful relationships with one another and we are supporting their unique creative expression. Every week, the group comes together to learn different styles of dance and are currently working towards their Christmas performance! Many have also started their Level 1 Dance Leadership Qualifications, learning the different skills and behaviours needed as a ‘Dance Leader’ whilst applying this theory into practice at our Dance Classes.

Alongside our incredible dancers, two incredible young people have created their own tracks in collaboration with Charnwood Arts, resembling their lived experience of being in care. The group are planning a music video to be released next year!

Finally, we would like to celebrate our four Ambassadors who have joined our Care to Dance Youth Board, supporting our organisation to lead systemic change and helping us to be a youth-led initiative. They also attended Frontline’s Summer Institute in Manchester where they performed and spoke at a panel to talk about ‘What makes a good Social Worker!’. We are so proud of every young person in our programme.”

- Vicki Taylor, Deputy Head at Leicestershire Virtual School

Here’s what the Care to Dance youngsters have to say: 

“I have gained a lot more confidence since starting Care to Dance.”

“The dancing has helped me through my stress and anxiety.”

“If it wasn’t for Care to Dance believing in me, I don’t think I would have been able to perform my song. Thank you so much for making this happen for me, it’s made a massive difference. This is the happiest I have been for a while. Thank you.”

Feedback from participants taking part in Care to Dance’s Frontline Summer Institute 2023: 

“Care to Dance were amazing and touched so many of us. They gave a real insight into the lives of the children and young people we will be working with on our placements. Their confidence and strength was inspirational.”

“The performers of Care to Dance were the most powerful voices I heard this week. The strength of all those young people to come and perform for us and to hear what cared-for children want us to do and not do first-hand was very important. I feel it is something that I will take with me into practice.”

“Hearing from the Care to Dance troop in regards to what they believe makes a good social worker, as care experienced young people was precious.  Their performances were beautiful and their opinions highly valued. Thank you.”

And some thoughts from carers: 

“The ‘glow’ was lovely to see. Exercise, a sense of belonging, supporting resilience  - incredible life skills. They are making memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. It gives the young people a sense of achievement and vision for the future.”

“Care to Dance has helped the young person’s confidence and self-worth.”

“Mixing with other young people in a safe and motivating environment has helped the young person. She is accepted for who she is and is not judged.”

Images © Beth Vecchione