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Mum plans to expand dance classes for SEND children

BBC/Nathan Turvey Zara Dodds and her daughter Aurora pictured in a dance studioBBC/Nathan Turvey
Zara Dodds set up the SEND Dance Academy because there was nothing like it in the area for her daughter Aurora

A mum whose daughter has special educational needs wants to expand the dance class she set up for children with similar conditions.

Former professional dancer Zara Dodds was inspired after struggling to find classes for three-year-old Aurora who has Smith-Magenis syndrome, which affects her behaviour, emotions and learning.

Zara set up her own academy in Harrogate and wants to expand - initially to York and Leeds then ultimately across the country.

The class, which is held at the Time Together charity in Starbeck, is aimed at children aged between six and16 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

BBC/Nathan Turvey Children dancing at the SEND Dance AcademyBBC/Nathan Turvey
The class is held every Saturday at the Time Together charity in Starbeck

"I used to take my daughter to classes when she was younger and I often left the class feeling quite upset, out of place," said Zara.

“I wanted to create something where parents were comfortable to take their children - as well as the children just being able to express themselves in anyway they want to."

The classes are run at a slower pace, with lots of props and sensory items that the children can play with.

"I've noticed a real gap in the market for children with SEND, so I wanted to create something where everyone was welcome," she said.

BBC/Nathan Turvey Valerie - one of the children taking part in the dance classBBC/Nathan Turvey
Valerie has autism and said the dance class made her feel like she "belonged"

Eight-year-old Valerie has autism and has been taking part in the dance classes.

"I love coming here to just let go of all my stresses and have fun. I really like using all these actions and just letting go," she said.

"Sometimes I feel like I really belong."

She added: "I'm autistic and I really want people to accept this."

Toni Rovardi's daughter Eva has Down's syndrome and attends the academy.

She said: "I think the class is brilliant, Eva loves it every week. She's very included and she's able to be herself.

"We've never seen anything like this before - it's really good."

Ms Dodds added: "I think everyone is so happy that someone is doing something for children with SEND, because it's so needed in this area and around the country as well."

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