Abstract

3x3x3 was a self-funded community schools initiative designed to support Year 6 pupils in their transition from primary to secondary school through creative dance practice. Developed in partnership with participating schools, the project addressed the emotional and social challenges of this key educational shift by offering a six-week programme of dance activity in each primary school. Led by professional dance artists, students were guided to devise original dance pieces that explored their personal thoughts, hopes, and anxieties about moving to secondary school.

The creative process encouraged self-expression, collaboration, and confidence-building, while fostering a supportive space for students to articulate and process their transition-related experiences. The project culminated in performances at the pupils’ future secondary schools, where they shared their work with current Year 7 students. These performances were followed by interactive workshops, also led by the dance artists, designed to foster connection, reduce anxiety, and ease the social barriers between incoming and current students.

By combining creativity with peer engagement, 3x3x3 offered a dynamic model for supporting emotional wellbeing, student voice, and school-to-school continuity. It highlights the role of the arts in educational transitions and demonstrates how dance can be used as a powerful tool to build resilience, empathy, and readiness for change.

Written by Rachel Emms
Dance Artist/project manager - Sarah Riach