Kathryn OToole

Synergy Dance wins “Inclusive Dance Program of the Year 2025 – Surrey” award

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Synergy Dance Ltd has been awarded the title of Inclusive Dance Program of the Year 2025 – Surrey, as part of the SME News Business Elite Awards.

This recognition honours businesses across the UK that demonstrate exceptional growth, innovation and leadership in their field. Now in its 8th year, the Business Elite Awards are driven by independent research carried out by SME News’ dedicated team.

At Synergy our mission is to make dance and fitness accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, or background. We are especially proud of our work delivering tailored programmes for individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)—creating safe, inclusive environments where participants can build confidence, improve wellbeing and enjoy movement in a fun and welcoming space.

Receiving this award is a testament to the dedication of our team and the strength of our community. From our talented instructors to our enthusiastic participants and supportive partners, every one of you plays a key role in making our vision a reality.

We are grateful to SME News and the National Business Elite Awards for this recognition and look forward to continuing to expand our inclusive programmes .

#SynergyDance #InclusiveDance #SENDsupport #AwardWinning #SMENews #BusinessEliteAwards #DanceForAll

Thank you, Sport England and The National Lottery!

Synergy Dance Outreach is delighted to announce that we have received funding from Sport England, made possible by The National Lottery, for a new Movement Fund project. We are deeply grateful for this support, which enables us to deliver a vital exercise and fitness programme for disadvantaged children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

With this funding, we will deliver:

1. Junior SEND Fitness weekend classes
2. Teen SEND Fitness weekend classes
3. Online “Dance Party” pre-recorded programme

This initiative is designed to provide a rewarding and empowering experience for all participants, reducing isolation, improving self-confidence and supporting both mental and physical wellbeing through inclusive, engaging activities.

From all of us at Synergy Dance Outreach, thank you to Sport England and The National Lottery players for helping us make a real difference in the lives of young people with SEND.

Together, we’re building stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.

#SynergyDanceOutreach #SENDfitness #InclusiveDance #SportEngland #NationalLottery #Gratitude #Wellbeing #ConfidenceThroughMovement

We are incredibly proud to share Synergy Dance® Outreach’s recent appearance on TV for Comic Relief, highlighting one of our impactful outreach projects. This was a fantastic opportunity to share the power of inclusive fitness and dance, and how it transforms lives.

A true highlight of the feature was Sam, an inspiring young dancer whose journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Over the months, Sam has not only honed his dance skills but has also stepped up to assist in classes. His dedication, enthusiasm, and natural leadership abilities have now led him to Deputy Lead a class, a role in which he continues to inspire both his peers and instructors. Seeing him shine on screen was a powerful moment—his passion is contagious, bringing energy and joy to every session. He inspires us all.

At Synergy Dance® Outreach, we firmly believe in making dance and fitness accessible to all. Visiting our classes in person always reaffirms just how vital inclusive opportunities are for children and young people. Dance is more than movement—it’s a chance for self-expression, social connection and overall well-being. We witness firsthand how our sessions empower participants, helping them stay active, make friends, build confidence, and most importantly, have fun!

A huge thank you to Comic Relief for supporting our mission and amplifying our work, by helping to fund our assistants for this class – as well as to our dedicated class leader Ren, our longest serving Synergy teacher, and with us from the very start, our hardworking assistants, and the entire Synergy team. Your passion and commitment make moments like these possible! It’s a total team effort.

Watch our appearance here: https://vimeo.com/1069437931

We look forward to expanding our outreach and creating many more opportunities for children and young people to thrive through dance and fitness.

Join us in making a difference! Want to find out more about possibilities to train with us or join our instructor team? Contact admin@synergydance.co.uk

Synergy Dance Outreach Launches New SEND Music Programme with Youth Music Funding

We are delighted to announce the pending launch of our exciting new project, Synergy SEND Singing Stars, made possible thanks to generous funding from Youth Music, Arts Council England, and The National Lottery Good Causes. This innovative programme will provide a transformative music and singing experience for children and young people with special educational needs, LTHC and disabilities (SEND).

The Synergy SEND Singing Stars programme is designed to empower participants through creativity, self-expression, and musical exploration. The project will deliver specialist workshops tailored to the unique needs of children and young people with SEND, including those with ill health, physical disabilities, sensory impairments, or special educational needs.

Participants will have the opportunity to explore and perform in various musical styles and genres, including musical theatre, pop, R&B, rap, and music from films. With professional guidance, they’ll also have the opportunity to compose and create their own songs, lyrics, or spoken word pieces. By focusing on the interests and goals of the participants, we aim to foster an inclusive, supportive, and inspiring environment where creativity can flourish.

In addition to workshops, the project will connect with Music Progression and Careers events for participants and their families. These events will highlight the broad range of opportunities in the music and creative industries, featuring guest speakers with real-world experience. From performance and songwriting to production, design, and management, the programme aims to inspire participants to dream big and consider careers in the arts.

Synergy SEND Singing Stars is a celebration of inclusivity, talent, and the transformative power of music. Together, we’re opening doors for SEND children and young people to express themselves, grow in confidence, and explore their potential.

Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this inspiring journey!

#MusicForAll #SENDMusic #SynergyDanceOutreach #YouthMusic #CreativeArts #Inclusivity

Join Synergy Dance for an Inclusive Dance Workshop in Reading!

At Synergy Dance, we believe in the power of movement to inspire, connect, and uplift. This Friday, we’re bringing that spirit to life with a unique and inclusive dance workshop at The Warehouse in Reading – specially designed for children who are visually impaired.

This isn’t just a dance session; it’s a celebration of creativity, confidence, and connection in a supportive and inclusive space.

What to Expect

✨ Explore Exciting Dance Styles
From street dance to commercial and musical theatre, participants will discover a variety of dynamic dance styles, guided by expert instructors who ensure everyone feels welcome and engaged.

✨ Build Confidence and Creativity
Through fun choreography, interactive activities, and props, dancers will develop their confidence, express themselves, and tap into their creativity.

✨ Family-Friendly Fun
This is a space for everyone. Siblings and family members are encouraged to join in, making it an enriching experience for all.

Our workshop features movement options tailored to all abilities and mobility, ensuring every participant feels included and empowered.

Practical Details

Location
Synergy Dance Workshop
The Warehouse, 1a Cumberland Rd, Reading RG1 3LB

What to Bring

• A packed lunch and snacks (hot drinks will be provided).

What to Wear

• Comfortable clothing and sensible footwear. Don’t forget socks, in case we dance without shoes!

Parking
There’s plenty of parking available at Wycliffe Baptist Church, which is connected to The Warehouse. Access the church car park via Cumberland Road or Kings Road/Rupert Street/Norwood Road, and follow pedestrian signs to The Warehouse.

Why Join Us?

This workshop is more than just learning dance moves – it’s about fostering a love of movement, celebrating individuality, and creating lasting memories in a welcoming environment.

So, whether you’re a budding dancer or simply looking for a fun, inclusive activity to enjoy with family, we’d love to see you there. Let’s make this Friday an unforgettable celebration of joy, creativity, and connection!

🗓️ Mark your calendar – we can’t wait to dance with you!

We were delighted to received a visit from BBC Children In Need reporter, Julia Moore, at our Woking SEND Dance and Movement class which takes place on Saturdays at 11.30am. We are incredibly grateful to Children In Need for all their support!

A man with Down’s syndrome from Surrey has achieved his dream of becoming a paid dance teacher.

Synergy Dance Outreach, which runs classes for children and teenagers with special needs, has promoted teacher Samuel Denne to a paid position following training.

After a class at Woking Leisure Centre, Mr Denne told BBC Radio Surrey he hoped his promotion would “encourage” people with disabilities.

The charity had benefited from a £45,000 Children in Need grant, which founder Rachael Hurton said ensured the group would continue.

She said: “I can safely say this class wouldn’t be happening without their support. We’re so grateful.”

Continue reading – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/clyvk0zkpl6o

🌟 Exciting News from Our Cash for Kids Fundraiser! 🌟

We are thrilled to share some incredible news from our recent Cash for Kids fundraiser! 🎉 Our very own Kathryn was nominated for the Sports Challenge Champion Award, and we are overjoyed to announce that she WON! 🏆✨

This recognition not only highlights Kathryn’s hard work, endless initiative and dedication but also contributes an additional £500 to our club! This generous support will help us continue our mission to provide amazing opportunities for our young athletes.

A huge thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and supported us throughout this journey! Your contributions make a real difference in our community, and we couldn’t have done it without you. 🙌❤️

Let’s keep the momentum going! Stay tuned for more exciting updates and events. Together, we are making a positive impact for our kids!

#CashForKids #FundraiserSuccess #SportsChallengeChampion #CommunitySupport #ThankYou