Scottish Arts Council

Dance Base has a long and productive history of developing dance in the community. It's committed to giving people of all ages and abilities a positive and creative experience of dance and, through their involvement in dance activity, of increasing their physical, social, mental and emotional well-being. It's Outreach Programme activities aim to target people who cannot easily access dance due to social, economic or geographical restrictions.

The Dance Base Outreach and Education Programme is managed by Janet Dick, Outreach Co-ordinator and delivered by resident Youth Dance Worker, Allan Irvine along with 5 or 6 other specialist Dance Teachers who also teach on a year–round community dance programme held in Dance Base’s own studios.

Artfull

Dance Base’s vast experience in teaching dance in community settings over the last 12 years has shown that dance enhances physical and emotional well-being as well as raising levels of self -confidence and motivation. The Artfull Exemplar Project, therefore, fits extremely well into this overall programme of Outreach work and Dance Base welcome the opportunity to work with groups of children and adults where there is a particular emphasis on improving mental health and well-being. There is certainly both a need and a demand for work in this area and Dance Base are very keen to build upon skills and contacts already made.

Who's Involved and Why

Early Years

All children love to run, jump and move so encouraging physical activity in young children is important. Dance for children in Early Years Settings is a positive introduction to creative movement which supports children’s physical, emotional and neurological development. It is also a lot of fun! Classes are organised in partnership with nurseries and Early Years Providers, and takes into account children’s own interests and the nursery curriculum.

Adults and Older People

The provision of care for vulnerable adults and older people can greatly influence well-being and being included in society. Working in partnership with service providers and carers the outreach programme visits adults in care settings and works to support improved levels of health and well- being. Creative movement helps to develop and maintain better co-ordination, mobility, balance and physical stability. As a social activity dance also has, for many people, positive life associations. With a fully inclusive approach to it's work, adults of all ages, and with a range of abilities, are encouraged and supported in their participation.

Primary, Secondary and Youth Groups

Within the busy timetable of a school day, Dance can play an important role in supporting pupils’ learning. Dance encourages positive group participation and promotes creative, healthy choices for young people. Learning outcomes from dance include:

The Exemplar Project has also widened the opportunities available to Dance Base to work with youth groups supporting young people in a variety of challenging circumstances: homeless, at risk and excluded young people who had very limited opportunity to take part in dance. Through working with those communities and youth agencies this aspect of Dance Base's work supports those young people towards positive life choices.

Quotes from Partners and Participants

'The girls have increased confidence and self worth. Working as a group has been
a very positive experience for them. Their behaviour in school has improved and so
has their attendance.' - Working Together Team, Children and Families.

'The children have had enjoyment, fun and movement, linked with the whole
curriculum in a child-centred way. Shy, dual language children in particular have
developed confidence and formed positive relationships from their dance classes.' - Nursery Teacher, Dalry Primary School.

'I didn’t really want to come to this class today, but I am so glad I did. This morning I
felt stiff and unable to move, after joining in the dance class I feel like a new person!' - Isa, Sheltered Housing tenant with Dunedin & Canmore Housing Association

The Dance Base Outreach Programme makes people feel happier, fitter and healthier. It increases confidence, improves communication and encourages people to work together. Working in partnership with teachers, carers and service providers, our team of dancers will inspire and motivate even the most reluctant of movers!

For more information about the Dance Base Outreach Programme please email Janet Dick, Outreach Co-ordinator or telephone on 0131 226 9653.