More than 30 Year 10 students can now lead dance related activities in the community after earning a top award.

Thirty-three students have been working hard for the past year to secure their Dance Leadership Awards from Sports Leaders UK which means they are qualified young leaders and can lead dance and dance-related programmes in school and in the community, under supervision.

The qualification is highly thought of by universities and colleges because it shows the students have learned transferable skills such as communications skills, teamwork skills and social skills as well as leadership skills.

The students had to complete six units of work dedicated to the teaching of dance.

Dance Teacher Daryl Handy said: “This process has taught them how to accurately pass on their knowledge to others.

“They also had to learn about things such as health-related fitness, health and safety issues and risk assessments.

“This is the highest number of students that have achieved the award here in one year and I am incredibly proud of them. What they have achieved throughout the course has been amazing.

“Some of our award winners have already said they would like to run sessions at their local dance clubs or here in school.”

Three of our award-winning students, Zoe Brennan, Beth Carey and Courtney Smith, were also presented with a rare, second award called the Spirit of Leadership award.

This award is only given to students who Sports Leaders UK believe have gone above and beyond in their pursuit of the Dance Leadership Award.

Mrs Handy said: “To receive the Spirit of Leadership Award is a fantastic achievement.

“Zoe, Beth and Courtney demonstrated exceptional leadership skills in their practical work and through their written work.

“Their commitment to the programme and their organisational skills have been outstanding and they all have the makings of good dance teachers.”

(Pictured are our award winning students with Dance Teacher Daryl Handy)