Impact of Central’s Wider Engagement Programmes

Debra Cougill is leaving Central today after 10 years as Head of Widening Participation and Access and Designated Safeguarding Lead. She reflects here on her legacy and the importance of specific strategies and engagement programmes that introduce and encourage interest in dance for wider audiences.

“Coming from a hugely disadvantaged background with few opportunities to access cultural activities I benefitted from education and participation in the arts in my teenage years. This has led to a lifelong career ambition to facilitate greater engagement in the arts. I have seen how young people gain softer transferable skills that are highly valued as they develop into working adults especially in communication skills, teamwork, problem solving and of course, creativity.”

Debra has highlighted four programmes that she has established at Central for their special impact:

  • Embedding Dance into the PE curriculum in local primary schools by providing access to free dance education and participation supported by live music and performance.
  • Engagement with independent Professional Ballet Teachers nationwide offering free professional development.
  • Programmes and strategies that seek out the most talented young people without the necessary support or the financial means to further their dance talent and ambition, to ensure ballet is inclusive, not exclusive.
  • A new Boys Move programme that has introduced affordable training and education and a safe space for boys to try dance or, further a passion for dance, led by male teachers and with current male undergraduates assisting and acting as ambassadors of ballet.

Debra continues: “I have witnessed the creative arts (drama, dance, and music) being squeezed out of the curriculum to the point where now, participating in arts and culture is increasingly becoming a luxury for those who can afford it. The Covid pandemic has had a significant impact on wider access too. I have been pleased to be able to use Central’s facilities and its teaching talent to play a part in addressing this need.”

Mark Osterfield, Central’s Executive Director said: “Debra’s work has never been more important. In many ways she has been a visionary in this area and has long championed the importance of dance for skills development and general well-being to audiences beyond our degree courses and programmes. She leaves a strong legacy for the impact of widening participation at Central, which we aim to continue. We wish her well in the future.”