Category

Latest News

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Exciting New Dance Classes with Challengers in Surrey!

Exciting New Dance Classes with Challengers in Surrey!

Synergy Dance Outreach is thrilled to announce our brand-new Family Dance Club sessions in partnership with Challengers in Surrey. Starting the week commencing 20th January 2025, these inclusive dance sessions promise fun, movement, and creativity for children with additional needs and their families.

What’s on Offer?

  1. Venue: Guildford Play Centre, Stoke Park, London Road, Guildford, GU1 1TU
  2. Dates: Weekly on Wednesdays or Thursdays, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
  3. Duration: 1-hour sessions
  4. Age Range: 4 to 14 years
  5. Schedule End Date: Week commencing 24th March 2025

These sessions are designed to be a welcoming and inclusive space where children and their families can dance, bond, and express themselves. Siblings are welcome to join the fun, making it a fantastic opportunity for families to connect and create cherished memories.

Why Attend?

Dance is not only a fun activity but also offers numerous benefits for children with additional needs, including:

  1. Improved motor skills and coordination: Dance helps children develop physical strength and flexibility in an enjoyable way.
  2. Enhanced social skills: Participating in group activities fosters communication, teamwork, and friendships.
  3. Boosted confidence: The supportive environment encourages children to explore their creativity and express themselves freely.
  4. Family bonding: Dancing together strengthens family connections and offers shared moments of joy.

With the support of parents and caregivers, our sessions ensure every child feels safe, included, and empowered.

Join us in creating a space filled with music, movement, and smiles.

For more information or to book your spot, visit the Challengers website: https://disability-challengers.org/

Let’s dance together and make 2025 a year to remember!

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

New SEND Music Programme with Youth Music

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

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Join Synergy Dance for an Inclusive Dance Workshop in Reading!

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!

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

A man with Down’s syndrome from Surrey

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

You can also listen to Sam and Rachael on BBC Radio here – https://vimeo.com/1029995106?share=copy

To attend one of our classes, go here: https://synergyactive.co.uk/v2/#book

To find out about us, and what we offer please go here – www.synergydanceoutreach.co.uk 

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Cash for Kids Fundraiser

🌟 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

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Include Summit 2024

The Include Summit 2024, held at the Lee Valley VeloPark in London, is a leading event promoting sports inclusion, diversity, and equality. Synergy Dance Outreach was delighted to attend to come together to discuss, share, and create strategies for playing sports and dance more accessible and inclusive for all individuals, regardless of background, ability, gender, race, or other differences. We provided a warm-up for all attendees to get everyone moving!

It was great to have the chance to connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals who are passionate about driving change in the sports world.

The summit addressed crucial topics such as inclusive coaching practices, accessibility in sports facilities, and breaking down barriers for marginalized communities. It provided valuable insights and tools for making sports environments more welcoming.

We were able to share our success stories, case studies, and innovative approaches to fostering inclusivity, with visitors to our stand. This knowledge exchange will also equip participants with practical methods to implement inclusivity in their sports settings.

We support Commitment to Change: The Include Summit encourages accountability and action, inspiring attendees to be advocates for diversity and inclusion within their organizations and communities and we will continue to strive to Make a Difference in all our delivery. Through our inclusive training programmes, we will also offer the education and tools necessary to drive positive change.

To find out more about Include Summit, go here.

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Best All-Ages Movement & Wellness Company 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Synergy Dance has been recognised with the prestigious award for Best All-Ages Movement & Wellness Company 2024 – South East at the Seventh Annual Southern Enterprise Awards, hosted by SME News. This is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing inclusive dance, fitness, and wellness activities for all, and we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to SME News for this honour.

At Synergy Dance®, our mission is clear: to get everyone moving, regardless of age, ability, or circumstance. Our live and On Demand workouts cater to a wide range of individuals, including children, teenagers, adults, seniors, and those with disabilities or barriers to exercise. We believe in empowering everyone to embrace fitness as a way of life, and our programs are designed with inclusivity at their core.

One of the key aspects of Synergy Dance is our hybrid fitness model, which combines both in-person and digital delivery to reach as many people as possible. Through partnerships with leisure centres, schools, care homes, universities, local councils, and the NHS, we are creating opportunities for individuals from all walks of life to stay active and healthy. Our fully inclusive fitness packages provide a comprehensive service, ensuring that our partners can offer a variety of inclusive activities that meet the needs of their communities.

We are particularly proud of our innovative programs, which include not only mainstream fitness options but also specialized activities for SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) participants. Synergy Dance® is at the forefront of industry trends, developing programs that target underrepresented groups, such as the ageing population and those with disabilities.

We are on a mission to expand fitness participation beyond the 15% of people who are currently active, aiming to reach 85% market penetration by offering accessible and engaging options for everyone.

Thank you to our amazing team, partners, and participants for helping us achieve this recognition. Let’s continue to move forward together, breaking down barriers and making fitness inclusive for all.

Donate

Find out more

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

A Heartfelt Thank You to the National Lottery

A Heartfelt Thank You to the National Lottery

A Heartfelt Thank You to the National Lottery: Supporting Our Saturday Workshops in Guildford

We are thrilled to announce that Synergy Dance Outreach has received funding from the National Lottery to expand our Saturday workshop programmes, in Guildford, Surrey, designed for children and young people with wide-ranging Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and long-term or life-limiting health conditions.

We believe in the transformative power of music and movement for children and teens, and this funding will support Saturday workshop programs that are specifically designed to provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where children and teens can explore their creativity, improve their physical health, and build social connections.

What This Funding Means to Us

At Synergy Dance Outreach, we are dedicated to providing an inclusive and supportive environment where every child can thrive.

The funding is supporting the positive impact we strive to make in the lives of children and young people in our community. Here’s how this incredible support will help us:

Increased Accessibility The funding allows us to make our workshops more accessible to a broader range of children and young people.

Inclusive and Safe Environment Creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment is at the heart of our program.

The Impact of Our Workshops

Our Saturday workshops are designed to provide a holistic approach to the development and well-being of children and young people with SEND. Here are some of the key benefits our participants experience:

Physical Health and Fitness: Through dance, music, and movement, our participants improve their physical health, coordination, and motor skills in a fun and engaging way.

Social Connections: The workshops offer a unique opportunity for children and young people to build friendships, develop social skills, and feel a sense of community and belonging.

Emotional Well-Being: Engaging in creative activities helps reduce anxiety and stress, promoting emotional well-being and allowing participants to express themselves freely.

Confidence and Self-Esteem: Through improvisation and imaginative play, children and young people gain confidence and self-esteem, empowering them to take on new challenges both inside and outside the workshop.

Communication Skills: Integrating MAKATON signing and interactive activities enhances communication skills, especially for non-verbal participants, ensuring everyone can express their needs and emotions effectively.

A Special Thank You

We extend our gratitude to the National Lottery and its players for making this possible. Your support will be making a tangible difference in the lives of children and young people in Guildford, Surrey. It allows us to provide a nurturing and empowering environment where every participant can thrive, grow, and reach their full potential.

We are excited about the future and the continued positive impact our workshops will have on the community. Thank you for helping us to make a lasting difference.

Together, with the support of the National Lottery, we are making a brighter, more inclusive future for children and young people with SEND. Thank you!

Join Us: We invite you to join us on this incredible journey. If you are interested in our Saturday workshops, volunteering or want to learn more about how you can support our mission, please visit our website or contact us on manager@synergydanceoutreach.co.uk

Book a class, or find out more!

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Join Our New Inclusive Class for Young Adults!

Discover the Joy of Dance: Join Our New Inclusive Class for Young Adults!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new inclusive dance class for young adults aged 18 and over. This exciting program is open to everyone, whether you have special educational needs (SEN) or are a mainstream participant. Our goal is to create a welcoming and relaxed environment where everyone can explore the joy of dance and dance fitness.

What to Expect

Our inclusive dance class will focus on various styles of dance and dance fitness, encouraging creativity, expression, and physical activity. The sessions are designed to be fun and engaging, with a relaxed pace to ensure everyone feels comfortable and included. Each term will culminate in a performance, giving participants the opportunity to showcase their hard work and talent in front of friends and family.

Social Benefits

  1. Building Friendships: Our inclusive class provides a great opportunity to meet new people and build lasting friendships. Dancing together fosters a sense of community and camaraderie.
  2. Enhanced Communication Skills: Through group activities and performances, participants can develop better communication and teamwork skills.
  3. Boosting Confidence: Performing in front of others helps build self-esteem and confidence, encouraging participants to step out of their comfort zones in a supportive environment.
  4. Sense of Belonging: Being part of an inclusive group helps participants feel valued and accepted, promoting a positive self-image.

Physical Benefits

  1. Improved Fitness: Dance is a fantastic way to stay active. Our sessions will help improve cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility.
  2. Better Coordination: Learning dance routines enhances motor skills and coordination, which are beneficial for everyday activities.
  3. Increased Endurance: Regular dance fitness sessions help build stamina and overall physical endurance.
  4. Stress Relief: Dance is a great way to relieve stress and improve mental well-being. The physical activity combined with the joy of movement can lift spirits and reduce anxiety.

Performance Opportunities

At the end of each term, participants will have the chance to perform in a relaxed and supportive setting. This not only allows them to share their achievements with loved ones but also provides a sense of accomplishment and pride. Performances are a great way to celebrate the progress and hard work of all our dancers.

Join Us Today!

Whether you are a seasoned dancer or someone looking to try something new, our inclusive dance class is the perfect place to explore movement and fitness in a fun and supportive environment. Everyone is welcome, and we can’t wait to see you there!

For more information and to sign up, visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s dance together and create something beautiful!

About Us: Our organization is dedicated to providing inclusive and accessible dance and fitness opportunities for all. We believe in the power of dance to bring people together, improve well-being, and build a stronger, more inclusive community.

 

BOOK NOW

Kathryn OToole
In Latest News

Synergy Dance® Outreach gains National Lottery funding

PRESS RELEASE: 26 June 2024

Synergy Dance® Outreach gains National Lottery funding

Synergy Dance® Outreach is delighted to have been awarded National Lottery funding from Sport England to support their dance, fitness and yoga classes for those with disabilities and long-term health conditions.

The grant will allow Synergy Dance® Outreach to support members of the disability community to access innovative dance and movement classes.

Flexible Fitness – Synergy Seated Dance, Fitness & Yoga

The funded project will deliver 3 x 12-week programs of accessible weekly seated dance, fitness and yoga for older people, adults with disabilities, Long Covid and long-term health conditions in Brighton/Hove.

A set of 10 online video classes will also be delivered.

ParaStars Dance™ and ParaStars Yoga® are seated classes specifically designed for adults and seniors with disabilities, limited mobility, frailty or long-term health conditions. These classes are also suitable for participants with dementia, Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.

ParaStars Dance™ sessions feature fun and uplifting music and dance moves that increase fitness, confidence, creativity and overall wellbeing.

Enjoyable routines enhance flexibility and muscle strength. The focus on posture and movement promotes stress reduction, and the exercise supports better health, improved toning and fitness and increased stamina, which all help to boost the immune system.

ParaStars Yoga® features calming music and gentle yoga poses that are perfect for increasing fitness, confidence, relaxation, and overall wellbeing. Participants engage in enjoyable stretching, breathing and relaxation exercises that enhance flexibility and core strength while benefiting from a soothing environment.

The classes bring harmony to the mind and body through postures and stretches, aiding focus and improving fitness, core strength, flexibility, motor skills, and posture.

ParaStars Dance™ and ParaStars Yoga® classes include both upper body-only and combined upper and lower body movements to cater to different abilities and needs. We offer differentiated seated movement options to accommodate all levels of ability and fitness. Our inspiring teachers get to know what each person needs most.

CEO of the charity, Rachael Hurton is thrilled to have been awarded the funding:

‘We are delighted to receive recognition and funding from Sport England and the National Lottery. We believe that dance, yoga and movement should be accessible to all, and we enable people of all ages and abilities enjoy our sessions both in person and online. This funding will open up our offer to more numbers of deserving people who can benefit from Synergy’s unique formula.’

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For more details about the project please contact Kathryn O’Toole: kathryn@synergydance.co.uk

Synergy Dance® Outreach is a registered charity, determined to make a difference, offering an inclusive and hybrid model of activities for all, where different levels of fitness and finance are not barriers to participation.

About National Lottery

National Lottery players raise £30m every week for good causes, funding arts, heritage, sports, voluntary and charity projects around the UK. For more information on good causes in your area go to www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk

About Sport England

Sport England is a public body and invests up to £300 million National Lottery and government money each year in projects and programs that help people get active and play sport.

It wants everyone in England, regardless of age, background, or level of ability, to feel able to engage in sport and physical activity. That’s why a lot of its work is specifically focused on helping people who do no, or very little, physical activity and groups who are typically less active – like women, disabled people and people on lower incomes.

www.sportengland.org

Find out more about Synergy Dance® Outreach