Cairngorm School of Dance - Club of the Month October 2024
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We are thrilled to announce that the Cairngorm School of Dance has waltzed away with our Club of the Month for October 2024, as we celebrate their exceptional efforts in making dance inclusive and accessible for the disabled community.
From its inception, the Cairngorm School of Dance (based in Aviemore, Scotland) has stood out for its unwavering dedication to inclusivity. The school's vision is to create a space where everyone, disabled and non-disabled, can experience the joy and freedom of dance. Over the years, this vision has transformed into a thriving community where diversity is celebrated, and barriers are pirouetted away. With inclusive and disability specific sessions across a wide range of dance styles, ensuring that every body can participate.
Heather Cooney, principal at Cairgorm School of Dance, told us: "Dance has so many qualities to it. So there's creativity, it's the steps, it's musicality. It's telling a story. It comes with emotion as well, and it's a release."
"It's wonderful to be able to express yourself without having to talk."
With highly trained instructors who specialise in adaptive techniques, the program emphasises not just movement, but also creativity, expression, and confidence-building. Participants are encouraged to express themselves in their own unique way, fostering a sense of individuality and artistic freedom.
Rosalyn, whose son Oliver takes part at the school, told us: "Oliver loves music, loves to listen to music. So to be able to move in his own way to that music, with Oliver being visually impaired and hearing impaired, he's never going to do it as some of the other children might do it, but it's his way."
"So, he is able to take part in his own way and be himself."
Cairngorm School of Dance’s impact extends beyond their studio walls. They actively engage with the broader community, partnering with local organisations to reach more people and raise awareness about the importance of inclusive dance and other local inclusive ways to be active.
"We are honoured to receive this award," said a Kathryn Talbot-Heigh, Dance instructor and Scottish Disability Sport Regional Manager. "It reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive space where everyone can experience the joy of dance. We believe that dance has the power to transform lives, and we are dedicated to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to dance."
Congratulations again to the Cairngorm School of Dance – the Every Body Moves Club of the Month for October 2024, and a shining example of what it means to make a difference through the art of dance! You've truly set the 'barre high' for us all!