December 9, 2025 09:08am
Students at Plympton Academy were given a unique opportunity to step into the world of professional dance when one of the UK’s most celebrated dance companies, New Adventures, visited the school on Tuesday 18 November.
The company, renowned for its vivid storytelling and theatrical productions, is currently touring Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes.
As part of its outreach work, two of its professional dancers, Paul and Sophia – both of whom have performed principal roles with the company – spent the day working with more than 60 students at the Academy. Together, they explored repertoire from The Red Shoes, took part in creative workshops, and held a Q&A session that gave students a rare insight into life as a professional dancer.
The visit brought a meaningful and exciting dimension to the school’s dance curriculum. New Adventures is studied by many of Plympton Academy’s exam groups, so the chance to learn directly from dancers at the heart of the company added real-world depth to their classroom research and learning.
Headteacher Shaun Willis said: “Welcoming New Adventures into our school was an incredible experience for our students. To learn from professional dancers of this calibre, who are performing on national stages, brings learning to life in a way that can’t be replicated in the classroom. At Plympton Academy, we’re passionate about providing opportunities that inspire ambition and show our students that with dedication and creativity, they can achieve anything.”
The event was part of the school’s ongoing commitment to raising the profile of the Arts and ensuring every student has access to inclusive, ambitious opportunities that inspire and extend learning beyond the classroom.
From technique and expression to career pathways and confidence-building, the day gave students a powerful window into where the Arts can lead.
Head of Dance Steph Jenner added: “Having New Adventures work with our students was truly inspiring. The company’s approach to storytelling through movement connects directly with what we teach, so to see our learners exploring that first-hand was amazing. Experiences like this raise aspirations and help our students see where a love of dance can take them, from the classroom to the professional stage. We’re so proud of how they rose to the challenge and embraced every moment.”
Students shared their reflections on the experience, highlighting the impact of working with industry professionals.
'These workshops are important because it helps develop creativity'
Kayla summing up the workshop: "supportive environment"
Sasha said: "I have got to meet wonderful people."
The visit not only reinforced the school’s strong ties with the local and national Arts community, but also underscored the value of a creative curriculum in transforming life chances for every learner.
Paul, one of the workshop leaders, said: "These workshops provide an opportunity for students to reinvent themselves, it gives young people the chance to show up as a version of themselves that maybe they don't get a chance to show and its a new language and new way of expressing themselves."
Sophia, who also delivered the engaging session, added: "The freedom to be creative and tell stories but without words, which might be challenging but to overcome that challenge it doesn't matter if its right or wrong."
