The Blair Academy are a social enterprise founded on Charlie Blair’s experiences as a professional dancer, homeless teenager and a carer for the elderly. They encourage healthy, happy ageing, for older people through innovative Hip Hop dance and exercise sessions.

They are a direct response to the dated, assumptive approach often taken when engaging with older adults on their exercise and social activities. The Blair Academy gives older adults the chance to reminisce through music and by sharing memories from the past, whilst also learning something new.

Through fun, forward-thinking sessions, The Blair Academy aims to:

• reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation
• improve/ prevent the deterioration of physical and mental health
• bridge generational gaps

Weekly Social Club at the Seddon Centre

Every Saturday from 11:00am to 12:30pm

• open to anyone over 50
• activities include chair based or stand up dancing and fitness
• time for socialising and free refreshments
• no need to book in advance; just come along

Sessions in Leytonstone and Chingford

The Blair Academy are proud to offer a series of free chair based Hip Hop dance and exercise sessions for older adults.

Leytonstone Library (E11 1HG)

Sessions will run every Wednesday from 8 October 2025 until 24 December 2025.

• 10.45am to 11.30am, chair based dance session
• 11.30am to 12.00pm, refreshments and time connect and chat

Chingford Library (E4 7EN)

Sessions will run every Tuesday from 7 October 2025 until 23 December 2025.

• 3pm to 3.45pm, chair based dance session
• 3.45pm to 4.15pm, refreshments and time connect and chat

This unique class combines low impact dance moves with the upbeat rhythms making it perfect for all fitness levels.

This is a great chance to move and groove to the best soul, funk, disco and hip hop tracks from the 1960’s right through to the current day, all from the comfort of a chair. 

Connect with other people in your community whilst reminiscing on music and memories from across the ages. This will be a safe space to improve physical, mental and social health. 

Referrals and eligibility

These services are aimed at over 50’s. However, if you are not in the age group and would like to get involved, you’re welcome to contact the team.

This service is suitable for

• Carers or those with care needs
• People with mental health needs
• People with disabilities
• Older people