In 2019 a partnership began between the Royal Opera House’s Create and Dance Programme, Coventry Schools, the Local Cultural Education Partnership (CCEP), Coventry City Council and Coventry City of Culture. Deputy Headteacher Rebecca Bollands, who has been key to the success of the growth of the partnership, assembled schools across Coventry to address a perceived gap in inclusive dance provision. During the pandemic, the partnership continued through online events such as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions and a ‘Live Assembly’ with Principals from The Royal Ballet.
Post-pandemic, a programme of activity for all Coventry schools was launched by the CCEP in November 2021. Alongside a series of CPD days, Coventry schools were invited to join a live-streamed ‘Everybody Dance!’ workshop, in preparation for World Book Day, and schools were invited to watch the school matinee performance of Romeo and Juliet at The Royal Opera House.
