Community & Impact
Why This Work Matters
Access to high-quality dance teaching isn’t equal - and children don’t all flourish under the same expectations or approaches.
OKD creates environments where children who may not thrive in very pressurised settings or in spaces without a clear sense of progression can still experience the benefits of dance: confidence, coordination, focus, creativity and connection.
We actively shape our programmes, pricing and partnerships to widen who feels able to take part. We recognise that access is affected by confidence, learning needs, identity, family circumstances and finances, not just interest or talent.
We see dance as something that supports children beyond the studio, helping them feel capable, resilient and part of something special.
Access & Support
We actively work to reduce barriers to participation in practical, considered ways.
Tiered pricing across our weekly classes and holiday workshops, including concession rates for families receiving Universal Credit and supporter rates for families who are able and wish to help subsidise others.
Partnerships and community support, including working with local schools and businesses to widen access and support children’s participation. This includes support from Stow Brothers, who sponsor a child’s weekly class fees and have supported our printed materials.
Funding and targeted subsidies, including Waltham Forest Community Ward Funding, which enabled heavily subsidised places at our 2025 summer holiday workshops.
Free workshop places, offered in partnership with local schools, to support children who would otherwise be unable to attend.
We’re always exploring thoughtful ways to sustain and extend this work. If you’re interested in finding out more, or in supporting this work in any way, we’d love to hear from you.