Akademi
Akademi is a pioneering organisation that places South Asian dance as an important force within British art, society and education. Founded in 1979, Akademi is based in the heart of London with a team of 10 staff.
It runs work based learning for 13 to 19-year-olds, family learning, community programmes, summer universities, museum education work, early years and primary workshops. About 3,000 young people participate each year.
Akademi's work-based learning is funded by the Learning and Skills Council. The organisation works with national names like the British Museum and Chelsea Football Club as well as local groups like Camden Peoples' Theatre.
Learners can sign up to workshops in South Asian dance, other dance forms, theatre, music, circus skills, vocal, DJing, fashion, design, visual arts and filmmaking.
Akademi offers work experience for 15 and 16-year-olds and second year degree students. Akademi also offers taster days, school visits, career guidance, mentoring as well as workshops for teachers.
Learners benefit from working in dance and choreographic workshop with professional artists. They develop increased self esteem, communication and negotiation skills, raised aspirations and a sense of achievement and expression.
Learners also discover how South Asian culture contributes to the main festivals such as the Divali and Mela which develops tolerance and awareness of diversity.
To find out more, visit the Akademi website.
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