BDSA News

Dance is more than movement; it is a language, a community, and a journey of growth. At the British DanceSport Association (BDSA), we believe that dance belongs to everyone, regardless of age, background, or experience level. Whether you’re taking your very first steps on the dance floor or competing at an elite level, the BDSA is here to support, inspire, and guide you every step of the way.

Across the United Kingdom, thousands of dance schools, studios, clubs, and community organisations provide opportunities for children to participate in a wide variety of styles, including ballroom, Latin, ballet, tap, street dance, hip-hop, contemporary, sequence and freestyle. The style diversity enables children to find a form of dance that suits their personality, interests, confidence level, and ability.

The British DanceSport Association (BDSA) is very proud to celebrate a meaningful new partnership with the London Youth Games (LYG), built on a shared ambition: to make dance accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for primary school children across London.

Dance is often seen as an art form built on discipline, performance and precision. But behind that, it is also a community, one where young people spend hours training, competing and developing not just as dancers, but as individuals. It is also, by its nature, a judging-intensive environment.

Get ready for one of the most exciting Latin dance events of the year! On Sunday 5 July 2026, dancers from across the UK and beyond will come together at the Waterside Leisure Centre, Canvey Island, Essex for The BDSA Open – English Latin Championships.

The British DanceSport Association (BDSA) and the London Youth Games Foundation (LYG) are delighted to join forces to enable the delivery of a pilot dance competition for Primary Schools in three London Boroughs. This is a new initiative for London Youth Games, and it forms part of the BDSA’s strategic plan to encourage more participation for young people within dance.

The British DanceSport Association is proud to announce the launch of its Youth Advisory Board (BDSAYAB) – a powerful and inspiring step forward in ensuring that young voices are at the very heart of dance sport. We are incredibly proud to welcome Anna Vallelly, Chloe Barlow, Christopher Quigg, Erin Gathercole, Jenny Carney and Rachel Everitt.

This is a subject that can feel both challenging and straightforward for parents; and as an organisation we recognise that. The safety of children, young people, and vulnerable adults is non‑negotiable in every environment. Dance is no exception, and one of the key issues, through our governance, we are committed to addressing is the widespread fear of reporting concerns within our sport.