Embedded Files
Nau mai haere mai whaanau, and welcome to Dance at Papakura High School.
This site is for our students and whanau to keep up to date with assessments, performances and if there's any additional information, as well as for anyone who is interested in taking dance in the future.
What will I learn?
In kanikani (dance), you will learn performance skills, the process of creating choreography, and technique. You will be learning a wide range of dance styles, including hip hop, contemporary, Latin dance, and Pacific dance, as well as opportunities to explore styles of dance that interest you!
Dance as a subject develops a wide range of important skills for students that can be applied in future pathways and careers, including creativity, coordination, teamwork, confidence, and self-expression.
For information and updates related to kanikani at Papakura High School follow our Instagram Page!
Why Take Dance?
Build Confidence and Self-Expression:
Dance helps students step out of their comfort zone, take creative risks, and express who they are without needing words.
Connects to Culture and Identity
Dance allows students to explore personal and cultural identity, engage with diverse styles, and build pride in their roots.
Develops Teamwork and Leadership
Dance involves collaboration, problem-solving in groups, and opportunities to lead choreography or direct others.
Teaches Resilience, Discipline, and Self-Awareness
Through rehearsal, performance, and reflection, students learn how to set goals, work hard, and grow from feedback.
Strengthens Communication Skills
Students learn to express complex ideas through movement and interpret meaning in others’ performances — a powerful form of non-verbal literacy.
Improves Physical and Mental Wellbeing
Dance boosts fitness, reduces stress, and supports a positive mindset — all while having fun.
Leads to Creative Career Opportunities
Dance opens doors to careers in performance, education, fitness, therapy, event management, and more.
Where could dance lead in my future?
There are many different careers that dance can offer, some of which could include:
Professional Dancer (Freelance or Company Dancer)
Dance Teaching (studio or high school)
Dance Academic/Scholar
Fitness Instructor
Dance Therapist
Cultural Dance Performer/Educator
Musical Theatre/Stage Performance
Photographer
Lighting/Technical/Costume Design/Manager
Youth Work
Kinesiologist / Movement Specialist
Staff:
Dance Teacher - Reuben Kitchingman (KTG): r.kitchingman@papakurahigh.school.nz
HOD Dance - Anita Imlach (IMC): a.imlach@papakurahigh.school.nz
Report abuse