sendANCE atwp

SENDance at ATWP

At Athena Theatre Works & Productions (ATWP), we believe that dance should be accessible to everyone. Our SENDance programme was created to provide a safe, supportive, and joyful space for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to explore movement, music, and creativity.

SENDance offers inclusive weekly classes tailored to each student’s needs. Sessions are structured but flexible, ensuring every dancer feels comfortable, celebrated, and inspired.

Our focus is on:

• Building confidence through dance and performance
   
• Developing motor skills, coordination, and balance
   
• Encouraging creativity and self-expression
   
• Supporting social interaction and friendships
   
• Celebrating progress and achievements at every stage
   

• SENDance Juniors (ages 5–9) 10:15 - 10:45
   
• SENDance Intermediate (ages 10+) Individually based plan
   

📍 Every Sunday 

Each dancer, like all our dancers, progresses at their own pace.

We are incredibly proud of what our SEND dancers have achieved:

• Many have gone on to perform in our annual showcases, shining on stage with confidence and joy.
   
• Students with physical and learning differences have achieved IDTA and ISTD examination success, proving that dance qualifications are possible for every child with the right support.
   
• Our SEND students regularly perform alongside their peers, showing the true spirit of inclusivity that ATWP is known for.
   
• Parents often share how SENDance has helped their children grow in confidence, communication, and independence – with improvements both in and outside the studio.
   

SENDance is led by Athena Burns, who holds an MA in Inclusive Practice Dance Education and is a Licentiate of both the IDTA and ISTD across 13 subjects. Athena also holds additional qualifications with LAMDA and ADA, making her one of the most highly qualified and inclusive-focused teachers in the region. Athena also worked in secure Mental Health for several years, specifically with young people. She also holds a psychology and Criminology Degree and gained qualifications in the management of violence and aggression, alternative therapy and communication. 

With over 20 years of experience in teaching dance and performing arts, Athena has dedicated her career to ensuring that children of all abilities can thrive. She has worked nationally and internationally in the arts and education sector, with a strong specialism in inclusion, disability, and accessibility in the arts.

SENDance is more than just a class – it’s a community. Here, every dancer is celebrated for who they are. Our sessions encourage friendship, laughter, creativity, and growth in an environment where each child is supported to reach their full potential.

✨ Every dancer matters. Every step counts.