Sweetieland - A KS2 Dance Unit

This comprehensive Key Stage 2 dance scheme enables Year 4 pupils to explore movement through the imaginative theme of Sweetie Land, inspired by Matthew Bourne’s acclaimed production of Nutcracker!

Over six flexible teaching phases, children develop performing, creating and appreciating skills whilst deepening their understanding of the digestive system and eating processes.

The unit uniquely combines physical education with science and professional dance appreciation, exposing pupils to world-class choreography whilst creating their own sweet-inspired dances.

Students learn an extract from the Gob stoppers Dance, create strong and controlled Humbug Duets, and choreograph their own Sweetie Dances based on properties of sweets and eating actions.

The scheme emphasizes dynamics, character work, control and strength whilst teaching choreographic devices systematically. With an overview of Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! story, professional dance extracts, curated music play lists, and structured peer evaluation tools, this resource provides everything needed to deliver high-quality, cross-curricular dance education inspired by professional practice.

Ideal for: Year 4 teachers, Key Stage 2 coordinators, PE specialists, dance teachers, science coordinators, arts coordinators, trainee teachers, and educators delivering digestive system topics.

Special Features:

• Inspired by Matthew Bourne’s professional choreography
• Professional dance extract included
• Strong character work (Humbug bouncer)
• Paired duet work developing strength
• Creative sweet-inspired choreography
• 6 phases allow extended engagement
• Story narrative context (Nutcracker! plot)
• Teeth warm-up game (Brush Your Teeth)
• Video guidance and complete play lists provided