Sampad learning team are thrilled to be back in St Benedict’s Primary school for a dance residency exploring a wide range of Indian dance styles including Bollywood, Bhangra and Bharatnatyam.
This is the 3rd year that we have worked with St Benedict’s in this capacity and we are pleased to welcome back dance artist Jaya Khazaei to lead the sessions.
The 5 week residency will take place over the first half of this term with Years 4 and 5. Each class is working on a different dance and these will be presented to their peers and parents at the end of the 5 weeks.
Learning Officer Naomi popped in to the first sessions and said “It was amazing to see the children excited about learning the movements Jaya was teaching. They were so engaged! I have no doubt the end result will be fantastic!”
It’s not just the Sampad team who are excited. One Year 5 pupil from the school said
“We are learning a special Indian classical dance. It’s helping us become more flexible and learn new dance moves. This dance comes from South India, and it’s really beautiful because every step tells a story. I feel proud because I’m learning about another culture. My mum and dad watch Hindi dances at home, so now I can show them what I’ve learned. It’s exciting to see how people in different countries celebrate through dance!”.
Claire Wilson Creative and Cultural Director at St Benedict’s Primary School said
“Through our partnership with Sampad, our school opens the door to richer learning- where creativity thrives, culture is celebrated, and our pupils connect with professional artists who expand their horizons. Sampad’s workshops, heritage projects, and performances don’t just enhance our curriculum; they deepen understanding, build confidence, and bring global stories to life. For our teachers, the partnership offers meaningful support toward Artsmark and Arts Award, while our pupils gain experiences that spark curiosity and pride in their community. Our partnership with Sampad helps make our school a vibrant, inclusive, and unforgettable place to learn.”
We can’t wait to see how the dances progress and are so pleased to get to work with both wonderful artists like Jaya, and our Sampad Associate Schools, on an ongoing basis.
It’s never too late to sign up to Sampad Associate Schools in 2026/7,
email the team: learning@sampad.org.uk
