Dance at JASSPA combines creativity with technique.  Technical exercises are taken from both contemporary and jazz styles helping pupils develop muscular strength, flexibility and agility. Musical exercises explore rhythm and mood, generating improvisations and routines.  Pupils are given the opportunity to contribute towards choreography and a wide variety of musical styles are explored through pre-recorded tracks, eg Musical Theatre, Classical Jazz and Commercial Dance. Classes encourage focus, discipline and team work enhancing not only group performances but also life skills.

Dance is one of JASSPA’s most heavily subscribed options.  Pupils are grouped primarily according to age (up to a two year age band for Juniors and a three year age band for Seniors) but also by annual informal assessment. At the start of the Autumn term pupils and teachers work together in large classes until assessments are finished. Then each child is placed into the most appropriate  class for them, still within their peer group. For pupils joining Jasspa after the start of the year an informal assessment is carried out during their first class with us. Assessments do not change lessons times as classes are taught in parallel.

All classes perform once a year in our annual Dance and Drama Shows. Preparation for this begins approximately 10 weeks before the performance date.  Venues for 2009-10 are The Prissian Theatre, JAGS and The Hall, JAPS.

Dance uniform - matt black jazz pants (or black leggings or black jogging bottoms) and black fitted t-shirt.  The majority of class is spent in bare feet but for routines, black school-style plimsolls or black jazz shoes may be required.

No previous experience is required to join JASSPA’s Dance classes.

Which Dance Class Should I Apply For?

Junior 40 minutes classes are for pupils aged 6-8 on Sept 1st 2009
Year 2 at infant school and Years 3-4 at junior school

Junior 50 minute classes are for pupils aged 9-10 on Sept 1st 2009
Years 5-6 at junior school

Senior 60 minute classes are for pupils aged 11-17 on Sept 1st 2009
Years 7-13 at secondary school

Advanced classes by invitation

Select here for an application form.