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William Roberts, 13, has always been a “little mover” since he was toddler and has had ballet and tap lessons since he was six. Now he’s ready to “move into the ballet world” and has sights set on Kings International Ballet School, a professional academy in Barwell, Leicestershire, which charges £10,000 each year.

The youngster’s mum Jane Roberts, 42, says children from modest backgrounds don’t get the same chances as those from wealthy families in the performing arts industry.

It breaks my heart that I can’t provide all that William needs to succeed

Jane Roberts, William’s mother

Jane said: “I think, especially in this day and age, everyone seems to show off with everything they have. What you have and your income plays a huge part in your chances.

“You see it particularly in ballet. Ballet is expensive but why should those wealthier families have more opportunities?

“It seems in ballet that chances of success diminish when you’ve got a low income. It’s almost the lower your income, the more your chances will diminish. My income is meagre.”

Jane says he is one of only four boys in his year group and wants William’s joy to inspire other young male dancers.

The youngster is also suspected to be autistic and is awaiting an assessment with the NHS.

Jane had to quit her job as a carer last year due to ill-health. She’s since recovered and intends to return to work but, in her desperate bid to help William, she is also crowdfunding for her son.

Nearly £2,000 has been raised – most by strangers – in the five days since it was started.

Jane said: “I couldn’t believe it when I woke up one morning as it had nearly reached £2,000. I was not expecting so many kind donations at all.

“They are mainly from strangers, people I haven’t even met and don’t know. It’s amazing.

“It restores your faith in humanity. It makes me happy to know there are nice people in this world.”

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She added: “It is still unusual in this country for boys to do ballet.

“I think it’s difficult for boys William’s age to continue with it when they face peer pressure, sometimes bullying because it is rare and still seen as odd.

“So I want to help other families, show that passions like this should be embraced regardless of backgrounds and income.  

“William is probably autistic. We have been waiting for an assessment but the waiting list is very long. He’s managing everything so well because, with that and school work, it can be very tiring for him.

“It gives William a drive. He has always worked so hard and tried his very best. I really am behind him in this.”

To donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-william-realise-his-ballet-dream

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