Stafflex supports Newsome High School in national dance competition

Huddersfield based recruitment specialist Stafflex have sponsored Newsome High School’s participation in the upcoming UK Rock Challenge competition.

The UK Rock Challenge is an annual performing arts competition for schools and colleges centered around anti-drug and crime-prevention. The focus is about how young people can achieve a ‘natural high’ without the use of tobacco, alcohol or other substances. It communicates health and social education messages to teenagers in a positive and supportive environment.

Pupils from schools across the country are asked to create an original performance involving dance, design and drama reflecting the personalities, concerns, hopes, dreams and interests of those who create it. Each school forms a team which decides on a theme, chooses the music soundtrack and designs the choreography, sets and costumes.

The competition has had a positive impact on pupil’s confidence with 83% of participants surveyed last year reported an improvement in their self-esteem.

Sarah Hinchcliffe, Head of Dance at Newsome High School said: “We’re grateful for Stafflex’s support with the Rock Challenge over the last five years. Participating in the competition benefits our school in so many different ways such as encouraging a healthy lifestyle by promoting physical activity and developing essential life skills such as responsibility, focus and communication.

“It also has a positive effect on relationships between staff and students, making for a more harmonious environment and vastly improving attendance across the school.”

Nemi Alexis Marketing Executive at Stafflex said: “We’re delighted to be able to support Newsome High School again in this year’s competition. The Rock Challenge gives pupils the opportunity to express their creative and imaginative side but more importantly it educates them on the dangers of drug abuse.”

Around 70 students will be taking part in the school’s entry with the competition taking place on Friday 9 March at Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham.