Primary Steps extends to Wales

The Royal Ballet School, in partnership with Rubicon Dance, are thrilled to announce the launch of a new Primary Steps centre in Cardiff. The first centre in Wales, this partnership will bring the Primary Steps programme to six new schools, in addition to the 28 participating schools across England. Weekly workshops will commence in September 2022 for all children in Year 3 at the new partner primary schools. Following the workshops, workshop leaders will select children who they feel will particularly benefit from progress onto the Primary Steps after-school programme, attending weekly term-time ballet classes until the end of Year 6. 

Established by The Royal Ballet School in 2006, The Primary Steps programme provides a positive introduction to ballet for junior school children aged 7 – 11. The programme gives children an opportunity to experience an art form they may not otherwise consider or have access to, and to foster an interest in dance as a life-enriching pursuit. Ballet, when taught creatively by skilled teachers, has the potential to develop confidence and creativity, enhance social skills and help children to feel physically, mentally and emotionally empowered. 

Rubicon, with its internationally recognised reputation for quality and ability to reach those who are excluded from the arts, are fundamental to the success of the project in Wales, providing expertise, strong links to schools and related organisations, and an in-depth understanding of the new Curriculum for Wales. Rubicon also has a range of progression pathways to which participants can be signposted, including an Advanced Training Scheme for young dancers aged 11. This exciting partnership will ensure that the impact of the project can be sustained and the long-term outcomes to increase access to high-quality dance training can be realised.