Why Inclusive Performing Arts Classes Matter for Children

Here at A Mind Apart, we have been talking about inclusion since day one. It's not a new concept to us, in fact it's something that we live and breathe. Not only do we make sure we are accessible to all children and young people from all walks of life, but we are also passionate about putting the child or young persons needs at the centre of our classes.

We work hard to create safe spaces where they have the opportunity to be creative with their peers whilst being able to be completely themselves. Although we love to put on performances at A Mind Apart, the big stage and bright lights isn't what is important to us, in fact for many of our students a theatre space would not make them feel safe. Instead we use community spaces and turn them into our own magical worlds. What is important to us is the journey of each individual child and young person and what we can do for them to help them through it.

This blog post shares how A Mind Apart creates a welcoming space for every child, highlights the real impact of inclusion, and shows how our team’s teaching and creative expertise helps young people shine.

Contents

• Every young person deserves a creative home

• What inclusion looks like at A Mind Apart

• Meeting the needs of South Yorkshire families

• How we help children shine, grow, and belong

• Real stories: Small steps, big changes

• Find your place with us

Every Young Person Deserves a Creative Home

Every child is unique. At A Mind Apart, we welcome children and young people just as they are; confident or quiet, outgoing or thoughtful, new to performing arts or already in love with it. Our classes offer more than singing, dancing, or acting. They give children a place to feel safe, meet new friends, and discover what they can do.

Each week, we see children arrive with different hopes and worries. By the end of a session, they leave with a sense of pride and a smile. That’s the difference a creative home can make.

What Inclusion Looks Like at A Mind Apart

Inclusion is at the heart of what we do. All children and young people are welcome, whatever their background or needs. If your child is looking for a place where they can be themselves, they’ll find it here.

Here’s what inclusion looks like at A Mind Apart:

• Small, friendly classes: No more than 12 in a group, so every child gets the support and attention they need.

• A skilled and caring team: Our staff aren’t just experienced in the arts and creative therapies, they’re also trained teachers. They know how to bring out the best in every child, whatever their starting point.

• Flexible, creative sessions: We shape activities around each group. There’s no pressure or rush. Children are free to try things at their own pace and in their own way.

• Listening to families: We keep in touch with parents and carers. Your insights matter and help us make sure your child feels safe, happy, and valued.

Meeting the Needs of Local Families

Finding creative activities that welcome everyone isn’t always easy. Many families in South Yorkshire, Chesterfield, and Derbyshire tell us they want a space where their children are truly seen and supported. We work closely with schools, healthcare teams, and community groups to reach as many young people as possible.

Our doors are open to all. We believe that every child deserves the chance to take part, no matter their circumstances.

How We Help Children Shine, Grow, and Belong

Everything we do is about helping children and young people build confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging.

• Small groups mean we get to know each child well. We learn what helps them feel comfortable and what sparks their interest.

• For those who need extra support, we offer creative therapies like Art Psychotherapy, Dramatherapy, and Dance & Movement Psychotherapy. These are led by registered professionals and experienced teachers.

• Wellbeing comes first. We check in with children and encourage them to express themselves in ways that feel right for them.

• Every achievement is celebrated. There’s no one way to succeed, just lots of ways to grow.

Real Stories: Small Steps, Big Changes

The best part of our work is seeing the changes, big and small, in the children who join us. We see so many success stories and have had the privilege of been a part of so many children's growing up from them joining us at five to leaving us at 18 to go to University. By putting the child or young person first, we watch them grow and flourish in the safe and welcoming environments we create.

Here’s what a parent recently shared about their child’s experience:

“I knew it was the right place for him, because it’s the first place he’s walked into without giving me a second glance since we’ve been in the city.” (Parent of a holiday club student)

Children who were once nervous now look forward to coming each week. They try new things, make friends, and discover strengths they didn’t know they had.

Find Your Place With Us

If you want your child to feel included, inspired, and part of a creative community, we’d love to welcome you.

• See our class schedule by clicking the button at the bottom of this page

• Contact us: admin@amindapart.org.uk or 0114 232 1172

Everyone is welcome at A Mind Apart. Every child can shine here. If you’d like to know more, just get in touch.

Conclusion

When children feel included, they grow in confidence and creativity. At A Mind Apart, we open our doors to every child in South Yorkshire and beyond. If you’d like to find out more, we’re here to answer your questions and welcome you to our creative home.