Torfaen's Got to Dance

Over 200 children have showcased their passion for dance in a competition aimed at celebrating and boosting participation in the art. 

In the biggest event to date, thirteen primary schools took part in Torfaen's Got to Dance on Friday, with pupils competing in three categories – solo, duet and group.

In the lead-up to the event at Pontypool Active Living Centre, schools held auditions and practiced dance routines in various styles, including street dance, jazz, hip hop, ballet, contemporary, and modern dance.

All children in years 4 to 6 that took part in the competition received a medal, with trophies awarded to the winners in each category as follows:

• Soloist:1st place went to Gracie from St David’s Primary, 2nd place Amelia from George Street Primary and 3rd place Scarlett from Greenmeadow Primary.
• Duet: 1st place Lauren and Esme at Ponthir Primary, 2nd place Club Tropicana at Ysgol Panteg and 3rd place Gabiya and Ruby from George Street Primary.
• Group: Dancers from George Street Primary took 1st place, with Blaenavon Heritage Primary in 2nd and Llantarnam securing 3rd place.

In the afternoon, pupils got to learn new dance styles in workshops led by talented dance teachers from the Charlotte May Academy in Pontypool, Kara Herridge from Prospect Dance in Cwmbran, and Ross Escott from Drama Queens.

Torfaen Council’s Sports Development Officer, Megan Parker, who worked in partnership with UDOIT dance foundation to organise the event, said: "The dance competition is growing every year with more schools and children attending. It's fantastic to see teachers and children getting involved in a non-traditional sport like dance.

“It helps pupils not only develop their talents and gain confidence but also creates lasting memories. Dance, as a form of sports participation in school, is also great in promoting physical activity and overall well-being among pupils."

The event supported the council's Not in, Miss Out school attendance campaign, celebrating the varied experiences and opportunities children have when in school.

Cllr Richard Clark, Torfaen Council’s Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “The dedication and hard work of the pupils were evident in their performances, and they should be very proud for taking part.

“The council is committed to supporting young people in accessing alternative education and increasing their well-being through school support. Events like this showcase the diverse opportunities available to our children, helping them thrive both academically and personally.”

For more information about dance opportunities in Torfaen, please contact: megan.parker@torfaen.gov.uk