Ignite
Designed to be an introductory programme, our 12 week Ignite programme provides care-experienced young people with an introduction to dance. Meeting once a week, they explore and learn different genres of dance and are supported to creatively express themselves using these.
The group environment enables them to develop friendships and find a sense of belonging among others who understand what it means to have been in care, and our staff are on hand to support the young people through anything that might come up during the workshops. It’s a space that can be an outlet for however they’re feeling, and to learn how to channel their emotions in a more positive way. The programme ends with an opportunity to perform in front of an audience and a social event to celebrate their achievements and reinforce their friendships. ​
“It became a way for me to feel free, escape the negativity and feel myself again. It was my form of expression.”
It also enables our partners to get a feel for Care to Dance, how we work and to see how much benefit our programmes bring to the local authority and its young people.