Researchers from the Robert Owen Centre in the School of Education recently completed their evaluation of the YDance Step It Up programme, funded by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation and piloted in Scottish schools from 2021 to 2023, to explore its impact on teachers, students and the broader educational community.

The programme’s evaluation aimed to assess its impact on teachers’ professional learning, particularly regarding their pedagogical skills, and the effectiveness of its model.

The University of Glasgow’s evaluation, which began in August 2021 and concluded in December 2023, drew on qualitative evidence from participating teachers, dance artists and the programme director, highlighting the programme's significant achievements and areas for future research and development.

The evaluation revealed that teachers experienced considerable growth in confidence and skills, transitioning effectively from co-teaching to leading the programme independently. This growth was not limited to their professional repertoire. It also positively impacted their classroom practice, demonstrating the profound influence of dance on educational pedagogy.

Dance artists, on the other hand, experienced professional growth and deepened their collaboration with educators, adapting their practice to meet the evolving needs of the teachers and schools. Their flexibility and the leadership provided by YDance were critical in maintaining the programme’s integrity and effectiveness.

Senior researcher Deja Lusk from the University of Glasgow said: “The Step It Up programme by YDance represents a pioneering effort to embed dance within the educational curriculum, supporting teachers’ professional development and enhancing students’ learning experiences.”

First published: 23 April 2024

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