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Thursday 09/04/2026

Keir Starmer Apologizes for Joining Viral '6-7 Dance' During School Visit

Keir Starmer juggling in a classroom with students and teachers
Aya NakamuraAya Nakamura

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologized for participating in the viral "6-7 dance" during a school visit to Welland Academy.
  • The "6-7" phrase, originating from Skrilla's song "Doot Doot (67)", has become a viral sensation among Generation Alpha.
  • The dance move associated with the phrase has been banned in some schools, including Welland Academy, due to its disruptive nature.
  • Starmer's Instagram video of the incident has drawn attention, highlighting the meme's widespread influence in UK classrooms.
  • The meme's meaning remains ambiguous, though it is linked to basketball culture and has been popularized by viral videos.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer found himself at the center of a viral internet sensation during a visit to Welland Academy in Peterborough. The incident occurred while Starmer was promoting the expansion of the free school meals programme alongside Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson. As he read with students, one child pointed out they were on page "6-7", prompting Starmer to perform the juggling hand gesture associated with the "6-7 dance" meme, much to the amusement of the class.

The "6-7" phrase, which has taken UK classrooms by storm, originates from the song "Doot Doot (67)" by Philadelphia rapper Skrilla. The song became a viral hit on platforms like TikTok, often used in videos featuring NBA star LaMelo Ball, who stands 6 feet 7 inches tall. Despite its popularity, the meme's meaning remains elusive, with interpretations ranging from a police radio code to a casual expression of uncertainty.

Starmer's playful participation in the meme did not sit well with Welland Academy's headteacher, Jo Anderson, who reminded him that the dance was banned at the school. "You know children get in trouble for saying that in our school?" Anderson remarked. Starmer, acknowledging the disruption, apologized, humorously insisting, "I didn't start it, Miss."

The prime minister later shared a video of the incident on Instagram, captioning it with a light-hearted nod to his faux pas: "I think I just got myself put in detention..." The video has since attracted significant attention, underscoring the meme's pervasive influence among Generation Alpha.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The incident at Welland Academy highlights the challenges educators face in managing viral trends that disrupt classroom environments. As the "6-7" meme continues to spread, schools may need to develop strategies to address its impact on student behavior. Meanwhile, Starmer's involvement, albeit unintentional, could spark discussions on the role of public figures in influencing youth culture.

Looking ahead, the meme's ambiguity and widespread appeal suggest it may persist in popular culture, potentially evolving with new interpretations. Experts might explore its origins further, offering insights into how such phenomena capture the imagination of younger generations. As schools grapple with these trends, balancing discipline with understanding will be key to maintaining a conducive learning environment.