Dance moves centre stage for more young people thanks to new link between schools and the dance world

Department for Culture, Media And Sport,
24 June 2008, England

Body popping, polka and pirouettes will be available for many more young people across England, under plans to develop stronger links between schools and dance providers, Culture Minister Margaret Hodge announced today.

More than £100,000 has been set aside to enable Youth Dance England to continue their work as part of the PE and Sport Strategy for Young People, providing greater dance opportunities for young people. The Dance Links Scheme enables more schools and specialist colleges to link with local dance schools and professionals to provide a variety of dance experiences for their pupils.

Speaking at an event to celebrate the National Youth Dance Festival, taking place in London from July 5th-13th, Culture Minister Margaret Hodge said: 'Dance is a fantastic form of exercise and a brilliant art form that combines creativity with rigorous training.

'Young people love to dance.  It is already the second most popular form of exercise in schools and its popularity is increasing thanks to programmes such as Strictly Come Dancing.

'Today’s announcement means that more young people will be able to experience high-quality dance opportunities, whatever their background and wherever they live.'

The plans build upon the £5.5million announced earlier this year to improve dance through a range of initiatives.  This included the strengthening of Youth Dance England, who have been charged with providing leadership and focus for dance both inside and outside of schools, as well as delivering a national strategy for dance across both sectors.

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