Dance teaching resources

Dance is a form of artistic and physical expression that involves movement of the body, often set to music, rhythm, or sound. In education, dance supports students’ creativity, coordination, and cultural understanding. Within the New Zealand Curriculum, dance is recognised as one of the four disciplines in The Arts learning area. It enables students to explore, create, and perform movement sequences, express ideas and stories, and respond to a variety of themes and contexts. Dance resources can help teachers introduce students to a range of dance styles, from traditional Māori and Pasifika dances to contemporary and international forms. Through dance, learners develop skills in teamwork, communication, and self-expression. Teachers might use resources tagged ‘Dance’ to plan lessons on choreography, integrate movement with other curriculum areas, or celebrate cultural festivals and school events. Dance education also encourages physical activity, spatial awareness, and emotional well-being, making it a valuable component of holistic learning programmes.