Step into dance programme finale
To mark the final session of the latest Step Into Dance programme, children were treated to a special visit from Baloo, an inspirational ex-police dog.
The West Essex Inclusion Project, supports children up to the age of 14 with learning disabilities, autism, and physical or sensory impairments across Harlow, Epping, and Uttlesford.
Creative dance workshops
The Step Into Dance programme, delivered in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Dance, offered 6 weeks of creative, inclusive dance workshops. Thanks to subsidised funding, the sessions were provided free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all families.
Sessions were carefully structured with visual to support understanding and routine. Children were introduced to each activity using clear “now and next” visuals, and music played a key role in sparking imagination. One highlight was dancing to Queen’s Bicycle Race, where children cycled their arms and legs while ringing bells—an activity that brought both energy and laughter to the room.
Each session ended with a calming cool-down. Children lay quietly on the floor, listening to soft music while colourful scarves were gently placed around them, creating a peaceful and sensory-rich experience.
Visit from Baloo
The final session was made even more memorable by the visit from Baloo and her handler, Mandy. After being struck by a car in 2018, Baloo underwent emergency surgery, including the insertion of metal plates in her pelvis and the amputation of a front leg. Despite these challenges, Baloo has gone on to become a symbol of strength and hope, proudly wearing her Police ID badge and K9 jacket—and now, her 2025 Crufts Hero Dog of the Year award.
The children were thrilled to meet Baloo, and the visit not only offered an end of programme treat for the children but a unique opportunity to learn about bravery, recovery, and the special bond between animals and people.
Collaboration between partners
The Step Into Dance programme is a fantastic example of how inclusive, creative activities can support both physical development and emotional wellbeing. It’s encouraging to see such thoughtful collaboration between local partners and national organisations like the Royal Academy of Dance.
Cllr Kaz Rizvi, Portfolio Holder for Community Health and Wellbeing
It was wonderful to be able to see the other children conquering their fear of dogs. The West Essex Inclusion Project doesn’t just help the children! It’s a family affair.
Parent of an attendee
Find out more
To find out more about The West Essex Inclusion Project, contact Emily Stevens, Disability Inclusion Officer at:
- Email estevens@eppingforestdc.gov.uk
- Facebook West Essex Inclusion Project
- West Essex Inclusion Project website
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