Francesca White studied a full-time vocational course in Performing Arts at Ashton Sixth Form College. During the course she developed her skills in dance, theatre, performance and singing, but it was her passion for dance that truly shone and paved the way for her career. 

After auditioning at dance schools and universities across the country, she began a Dance degree at De Montfort University in Leicester. 

Fran returned to Ashton Sixth Form College last week to teach A-Level dance students - the same position she was in just five years ago in 2013.

The workshop focussed on improvisation. Often this technique is not explored until degree level. Rather than students following a routine or recalling a piece, the aim of the workshop was to allow students to think artistically, exploring levels, movement and speed. 

It is also a technique that requires confidence and is not one often loved by everybody. Providing students with the opportunity early on, allowed them to discover their own ideas and try something new. 

Since her degree, Fran now teaches dance in primary schools, encouraging young people to express themselves and find an outlet through the means of performance. She also works with young people with special needs. This summer she will spend time in the US at a camp teaching dance to young people with special needs. 

---

Find out more about studying Dance at Ashton Sixth Form College here.