CHILDREN at a Greenock school are using ballet as a way to beat bullying and defeat discrimination.

Pupils from Ardgowan Primary are taking part in Scottish Ballet’s new anti-bullying programme ‘Safe to be Me’.

The project works with primary six pupils, aged nine to 11, to explore themes that include identity, tolerance, respect, family diversity and LGBTQ+ communities.

Pupils are introduced to the themes by a team of experienced dancers in the weeks leading up to watching a performance choreographed by Scottish Ballet’s engagement creative director, Lorraine Jamieson.

The pupils then take part in a full-day workshop where they have the opportunity to create their own ‘Safe to be Me’ performance – encouraging each of them to express who they are.

Alexa Docherty and Finlay McKeegan, both 10, pictured, are amongst the P6 class taking part in the project.

Alexa said: "I've really liked it as we've learned all about how to stop bullying through dance."

Finlay added: "It's all about feeling safe to be yourself and how it doesn't matter who you are.

"I've also learned the different steps and moves that you do in ballet, which was hard at first but it gets easier."

Class teacher Rachel Dougall says the anti-bullying project has been great for her pupils.

She said: "The children have got a lot out of it.

"They've been talking about all the different terminology of bullying and how to support someone that is being bullied.

"It's great that they've learned about this through dance."

Catherine Cassidy, director of engagement at Scottish Ballet, said: “As one of Scotland’s national performing companies, we are proud to present this programme that celebrates diversity and inclusion.

“Safe to be Me is a creative performance project that reflects our communities’ values, encouraging ten-year-old pupils to celebrate difference and gain respect for themselves and one another.”