Paakhi, hosting and teaching kathak volunteering classes, as a CAS Service experience, where I taught young girls the basics of Kathak, an Indian classical dance form that I have been learning for several years. My role involved teaching them fundamental techniques such as basic footwork, hand movements, posture, rhythm and simple dance sequences. I demonstrated the steps, broke down movements into smaller parts and helped the girls practise until they became more comfortable and confident. Since each student learned at a different pace and in a different language, I had to be patient and adapt my teaching approach according to their individual needs. This experience allowed me to share a skill that is meaningful to me while contributing to the girls’ learning and confidence. Through teaching Kathak, I developed my communication, leadership and teaching skills, while also learning the importance of patience, responsibility and collaboration.

LO1 – Teaching Kathak allowed me to recognize my strengths in dance, communication and leadership. I also identified areas for growth, particularly in explaining movements clearly, adapting my teaching style and being patient with different learning abilities.

LO2 – Teaching Kathak was a new challenge because I had to move beyond performing and learn how to effectively teach others. I developed skills in communication, demonstration, planning activities and adapting instructions according to the students’ needs.

LO3 – I contributed to planning the Kathak sessions in my backyard by deciding what techniques and movements to teach, organizing the activities and structuring the sessions according to the girls’ existing abilities. I planned the progression from basic movements to more complex techniques.

LO4 – I demonstrated commitment by consistently preparing for and conducting the sessions. I remained patient and continued supporting the girls when they found certain movements difficult, encouraging them to practise and improve.

LO6 – Through teaching Kathak, I engaged with the importance of preserving and sharing cultural heritage. Introducing young girls to Indian classical dance helped promote awareness and appreciation of traditional art forms and contributed to keeping cultural practices relevant for younger generations.