Our Learning Team is committed to creating opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to join in and learn about dance.
We work in schools, theatres and community settings across the UK to bring the joy of ballet to as many people as possible.
We offer talks and workshops at theatres across the UK, and a range of projects in Yorkshire. These are the perfect introduction to our performances for people who are new to ballet, and give a deeper insight for those who are more experienced in the ballet world.
We also work with partners on a number of research projects to develop learning and best practice within the sector.
Our dedicated and friendly team are passionate about inclusion and ensure our work is pitched at the appropriate level; so whether you’re a dance school that would like your pupils to learn some repertoire or an individual with professional aspirations, we will work with you to ensure everyone enjoys their Northern Ballet experience.
Who we are
Artistic Learning Manager
Sophie Alder
Part of my role is to oversee the artistic output of the department. This includes supporting the Community Dance Artists and delivering training and CPD to dance artists and teachers. I also lead Ability, our course for adults with additional learning support needs, managing and delivering on the programme.
Artistic and Learning Assistant
Pippa Moore MBE
I am a former Premier Dancer at Northern Ballet with my performing career spanning over two decades. I now teach workshops and classes for the Academy and coach the Company dancers.
My work with the Learning Team includes co-writing audio descriptions and delivering them live during performances, plus the planning and delivery of Touch Tour Insight Workshops to visually impaired patrons. I also deliver talks and workshops at touring venues for people of all ages and abilities.
Director of Learning
Leanne Kirkham
It is my responsibility to create a programme of work which strategically aligns to the vision of the Company and ensures that Northern Ballet reaches large and diverse audiences.
On a day to day basis, I oversee the department staff, budget and output, ensuring high quality and consistency across our work. Another big part of my job is attending local and national networks such as the Leeds Cultural Education Partnership where strategic priorities for our sector are created and driven.
The best thing about my job is creating opportunities for people to take part in ballet or to go and see a live performance for the first time. I thoroughly enjoy seeing how much people enjoy our work and promoting the ethos that dance is for everyone!
Senior Learning Project Manager
Sam Moore
I oversee all project management and communications within the Learning department and lead on accessibility for the Company to ensure we navigate and remove barriers to enjoying our work. My role also sees me manage large-scale projects such as Expressions.
I’m a member of a number of external networks that champion youth dance and accessibility.
I’m passionate about ensuring the arts are accessible to everyone, whether they are a spectator, building their skills or choosing to embark on a creative career.
Community Dance Artist
Dagmar Birnbaum
Central to my role is delivering dance workshops and projects out in the community, from Early Years settings and Schools, to Community Centres and Libraries, as well as activity taking place at our studios. I enjoy enabling everyone to take part and love seeing the positive impact participation in dance activities has on individuals. I am passionate about promoting enjoyment, mental well-being and accessibility through my work.
Community Dance Artist
Kim Hardy
My role is to encapsulate the qualities of Northern Ballet and share them with the community. Led by my passionate belief that dance is a universal language, I deliver differentiated workshops in a range of settings across the country.
Whether or not someone is new to dance, it is my ultimate ambition to celebrate with them the richness of individual experience and creative expression.
'Expressions provides an amazing opportunity for children and young people who are usually excluded from similar events. It builds their self-esteem and quality of life and means so much to their families.'Expressions Community Group Leader
'Thank you for this lovely opportunity to see so many children enjoying the creativity and freedom dance gives them. It was such a brilliant morning.'Teacher after children’s ballet tour workshop
'It has given me the confidence to teach dance when I felt I didn’t know anything about it. It means we can broaden our PE offer.'PE teacher who attended CPD
'The workshop made me feel like I was part of the book.'Student after an Oliver Twist workshop
'Dance for Parkinson’s has been a great initiative; attending each week has given me a new appreciation of ballet and perhaps more importantly helped in the management of my condition. Unanticipated benefits include the new friends we have made and the smile which it never fails to put on my face!'Dance for Parkinson’s participant
'We don’t think we’ve ever done something as a family before. The twins have gained a lot of confidence from the project, for them to get up and dance is really special.'Let’s Dance participants
'The Early Years project has had a very positive impact on the wellbeing of all the children taking part. 79% saw an increase in development for managing their feelings and behaviour.'Teacher at a children’s centre
Our Research
We believe in the power of dance participation, and the valuable impact for our participants and industry peers. Our growing body of research proves the value of arts-based education and develops best practice across the sector.
Did you know...
In 2020/21 we worked with 15,505 people both online and in person. We delivered 125 digital dance sessions and 63 inclusive dance sessions across In Motion, Ability and Expressions.
In June 2021, 3,585 pupils nationwide took part in our digital Little Red Riding Hood workshops.
We hosted our first ever digital Expressions in July 2021, showcasing 9 community groups totalling 67 performers.
During Expressions 2021 we held our first digital conference, SHIFTing Perceptions, that was watched by 178 people from across the globe.
More from our Learning team
Inclusive Dance
Activities, classes and courses specifically designed for disabled people.
Read more
Events and Workshops
There are lots of events and workshops to enhance your experience with Northern Ballet.
Read more
Photos Gavin Joynt and Lisa Stonehouse.