School students from Highams Park joined 200 students from across London and Essex in performing at the Royal College of Music yesterday

School students from Highams Park School with mayor of Waltham Forest, Cllr Sharon Walden and consort Sandra Rigobert. Photo credit: Hannah Brandon

Gifted young dancers from Highams Park School took part yesterday in a Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) event.

The pupils joined over 200 students from schools across London and Essex at the Britten Theatre stage at the Royal College of Music to perform dynamic dance routines including jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, commercial and afro-fusion.

The event, called Step Live, is one of many events organised by Royal Academy of Dance’s (RAD) Step into Dance programme in partnership with the Jack Petchey Foundation.

Step into Dance is the UK’s largest inclusive dance programmes for secondary school students, enabling young people to develop their passion, skills and understanding of dance.

School students from Highams Park performed in front of VIPs including councillor Sharon Waldron, mayor of Waltham Forest. Speaking of the event, Cllr Waldron said: “We enjoyed the confident energy of the young people. Well done to them all!”

Alex Lowe, deputy artistic director of Royal Academy of Dance said: “I am thrilled to have been part of the Step Live performance. The energy, passion, and joy displayed by the young performers was truly inspiring.

“RAD’s commitment to providing dance opportunities and encouraging inclusivity aligns perfectly with our purpose and values. It was a delight to witness the diverse range of dances and talent showcased by each of the schools. This event truly highlighted the transformative power of dance.”

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