I had such an inspiring time running workshops at Springfield yesterday.

Each class that we spent time with brought new ideas, interests and responses so that I was really kept on my toes and constantly seeing fresh engagement opportunities and unexpected benefits. 

As a practitioner, what I gained the most from the experience was the chance to work with a complete spread of abilities within one session. This was a really good challenge and chance to practise ‘responding to the room’, thinking on my feet and working on leading a session that engaged everyone no matter what their capacity or interest.

There is a lot to be said for the Springfield school, which had a lovely welcoming and supportive vibe the moment I walked through the doors, and the care and attention with which the staff supported the students no doubt goes a long way towards enabling the students to be open, engaged and willing to give everything a go!

I love ceilidh dancing and calling for ceilidhs so much – one of my favourite ways to socialise and to exercise. It was really fun sharing this with the students and having a bit of a party at 2 in the afternoon.

Which reminds me of another aspect of today which was so delightful as a dance practitioner – working with skilled live musicians who could respond instantly to changes in direction and the dynamics of the class.