High school doesn't need to be boring - introducing a new dance and music program

High school students rejoice! There’s now a fun way you can earn credits towards graduation. By learning Bhangra dancing and Dhol drumming you can earn those precious credits and keep physically active.

iLearn DL Secondary School is getting high school students out into their community and connecting them to industry leaders all around town as they earn their High School graduation.

“We want students to begin viewing their community as the classroom, and all the talented professionals out there as teachers and mentors,” says school Principal Saima Naz.

South Asian Arts is an organization that has been active in arts & culture since 2005. Their artists performed at dozens of events during the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games, including the opening ceremonies. They’ve also developed and taught Bhangra courses at Simon Fraser University’s Faculty of Performing Arts. These are the exact professionals whom students need to be connecting with.

Image: South Asian Arts

Bhangra and Dhol are increasingly popular and young people report feeling stronger connections with history and the diverse Canadian community after learning more about these traditional arts. Ministry of Education approved courses in Bhangra and Dhol are now being offered at iLearn DL Secondary School and are taught by the qualified instructors from South Asian Arts.

And these courses are not just for students with previous experience. “Whether you are new to the art form or a seasoned veteran, all high school students are welcome to register and earn credits towards their graduation,” say program coordinators Gurpreet Sian and Rayman Bhuller.

“These are the first courses of their kind to be offered in North America – and they’re FREE! The students really enjoy learning Bhangra and Dhol with an organized and structured curriculum. They feel like they’ve actually accomplished something by the end.”

If you’re a unique teenager who wants to start experiencing the world NOW, while earning credits towards your high school graduation, or if you’re interested in your child learning more about world culture, contact iLearn DL Secondary School at 604-590-5504. Online registration is also available at www.southasianarts.ca

All courses will be held at South Asian Arts Studio at 114-12827 76th Avenue in Surrey. A new semester of classes starts on January 4th, 2016. Registration is open to all grade 9-12 students, but spaces are limited so register today!

Image: South Asian Arts