Corby pupils set up petition to save school dance studio

Kingswood Secondary Academy currently possesses a dance studio with mirrors, lighting and a sprung floor, along with a performing space and a drama studio.

It is now looking at relocating the dance facilities in order to expand the canteen – but sixth form pupil Josh Miller says the studio is an integral part of the school.

The performing arts student said: “At the moment the amount of space we have is sufficient, but at times my A-Level class do not have a drama or dance space to use so we have to use the canteen.

“The academy have now decided that they would like to knock down our dance studio.

“This has come as a real shock to students and staff at the academy as we believe this is an integral part of the day-to-day life and reputation of Kingswood.

“Kingswood was once a well-known performing arts school, and dance and drama were the subjects that stood out above them all.

“Dance and drama allows pupils to express their feelings and opinions through different ways other then violence and vocals.

“The subjects also give them more confidence in life and help them become better people and to understand history and life through performance.”

Within three hours of going live the petition had attracted some 200 signatures, and has now reached more than 1,200 pledges of support.

Kingswood Secondary Academy principal Andy Burton says the changes will allow the school to offer additional places to Corby children.

He said: “The academy is exploring the feasibility of relocating the dance facilities in order to expand the dining accommodation which is currently too small; it has never been the intention to look at removing dance altogether.

“In part, this will enable the academy to assist the local authority in offering additional places at Kingswood to Corby children; there is a current shortage of school places due to the expansion of the town.

“Kingswood Secondary Academy remains committed to offering performing arts as an integral part of the academy curriculum, from Key Stage 3 right through to the sixth form.”

To view the petition, click here.