24/01/2021
Interview With a Dance School Owner During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
I know Claire very well as I have photographed (Images attached) her students multiple times. As part of a personal project focusing on the impact of Covid-19 I wanted to speak with her to see how the dance community was coping during this testing time.
A big thank you to Claire for taking time from her busy schedule to provide some insight into how this pandemic has effected her Dance School and her mental health.
Who Are You?
My name is Claire Young, and I'm a Dance School Owner/Principal. I am also Head of Science at a local middle school.
Do You Remember When COVID-19 Really Took Hold, How Did You Feel?
I felt uncertain, stressed, and worried.
When You Were Forced to Close Your Business, What Did It Feel Like?
It was like an out of body experience. It was very stressful and left me feeling physical effects like a tremendous pressure has been applied. I got daily tension headaches and had fears of how I would afford to keep going and support my staff and students.
What Did You Do to Try and Work-Around Not Teaching Students Face-to-Face?
We set up a private group for our school on Facebook, set daily challenges, provided YouTube links, and offered teacher-led videos to keep the kids going. We are now doing zoom classes, but we all work full time, so it's challenging. I, for one, am physically exhausted every day.
The Dance Community Seems to Be Really Pulling Together. How Have You Supported Each Other?
There are loads of well-priced online opportunities now, including professional workshops. I have been in touch with other dance teachers for advice on what to do when applying for help and also just to check in. Many positive statements appear on social media daily, and everyone is always available for a private chat. We all try to support each other's mental health.
What Have Been the Positives and Negatives of Having Social Media During Lockdown?
The positives are the connections you make with other professionals when asking for advice and providing students opportunities. The negatives are the pressure you feel to deliver certain things on your own when it's just not feasible, around other commitments such as childcare.
How Are You Coping With the Current Lockdown and Homeschooling?
Both my husband and I are critical key workers so luckily I'm able to send my kids to school (age 6 and 3), but the demands of our work have increased tenfold.
Has the Pandemic Taught You Anything About Yourself?
It has taught me that I am resilient and appreciate my kids and their families more than they know, and it's given me a new drive to push and make up for the lost time. I miss them all terribly. I also miss my teachers a considerable amount, the daily contact and check in with them is missed as we're all very close friends.
Do You Think There Will Be Any Positives We Can Glean From This Pandemic?
When we reopened last year, there was definitely a drive from the kids and teachers and a new spark which I hope will be the case when we reopen again. It has given me extra quality time with my young children to see them grow and develop, but otherwise, I'm not sure.
Is There Anything You Would Like to Say to the Parents and Your Students?
I am incredibly grateful for your continued support through this difficult time. I miss you all so much and can't wait to see you again in (hopefully) the near future to see your smiling faces when doing what you love. Keep practising hard at home, and you'll see the benefit. Love always.
