STUDENTS from a Bradford special school took on mainstream school opposition in a high profile dance competition, gaining recognition for their performance, taking home a number of awards.

Following months of rehearsals, costume planning and set design, on the team from Southfield School a regional round of the UK Rock Challenge at the Magna Science and Adventure Centre in Rotherham last week.

Led by Dance Teacher Carrie Gledhill, Southfield had opted for a 'Happy Days' theme, taking inspiration from 1950s / 1960s America but with a modern twist which allowed the students to perform their favourite street dance routines. The set featured a traditional US diner and jukebox, all of which had been made by the students and staff at the school.

Southfield were up against competition from schools from across south and west Yorkshire and despite not making it through to the next round, they brought back a total seven awards for excellence in concept, entertainment, stage crew and the ‘Spirit of Rock Challenge’ award as voted for by the other participants on the day.

On Friday the group gave a final performance back at school in front of their peers, parents, carers and staff.

Head of Southfield, Jacqui Hill said: “The quality of dancing and coordination was absolutely outstanding and it was great to see the students out there enjoying themselves on stage. A performance like this is not an easy thing to achieve and was the result of excellent preparation and teamwork, with students working backstage as well as performing on it.”