Overview: Dance teachers play a crucial role in training and developing students in various forms of dance. They impart skills, foster creativity, and guide individuals or groups towards achieving their dance aspirations.
Salary:
- Variable, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Typical Hours:
- 30 to 37 hours per week, with variable schedules.
- Work may include evenings, weekends, attending events, or appointments.
How to Become a Dance Teacher
University:
- Obtain a relevant degree in dance or performing arts.
- Some degrees include teacher training.
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) may be required for teaching in state schools.
- Primary teachers may specialize in physical education.
- Secondary teachers may teach dance as a single subject or combine it with other disciplines.
- Lecturer positions at universities or conservatoires often require postgraduate qualifications and teaching experience.
Entry Requirements:
- Typically 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and Maths.
- 3 A levels or equivalent.
- Specific entry requirements may vary.
College:
- Attain a minimum level 3 qualification in dance.
- Professional qualifications from recognized dance awarding organizations enhance employability.
- Examples include bbodance, Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, IDTA, and Royal Academy of Dance.
Entry Requirements:
- Generally 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent.
Work:
- Gain experience through years of dance practice.
- Start as an assistant in a dance school and pursue teaching qualifications approved by CDMT.
- PE teachers or those with teaching qualifications can undertake CDMT-approved courses to specialize in dance.
Career Tips:
- Utilize platforms like Teaching Vacancies for job searches in schools.
- Seek advice on training for dance fitness instruction from EMDUK.
Professional and Industry Bodies:
- Join organizations like One Dance UK for professional recognition, training opportunities, and networking.
Further Information:
- Resources available through One Dance UK, Discover Creative Careers, and Get Into Teaching.
What It Takes
Skills and Knowledge:
- Fine arts and teaching knowledge.
- Course design abilities.
- Initiative and leadership.
- Excellent verbal communication.
- Collaboration skills.
- Patience and calm demeanor.
- Proficiency in computer and relevant software packages.
Restrictions and Requirements:
- Pass enhanced background checks due to potential work with children and vulnerable adults.
Day-to-Day Tasks:
- Plan and conduct dance sessions.
- Create dance pieces for individuals and groups.
- Maintain records of student progress.
- Assess students for dance exams.
- Continuously develop personal dance skills.
Working Environment:
- Schools, colleges, universities, independent training centers, or community settings.
Career Path and Progression:
- Progress to roles like head of department or headteacher in schools.
- Explore opportunities in choreography, dance production, dance movement psychotherapy, or dance fitness training.
- Private dance teachers can establish their own businesses and run dance schools.
