Curriculum

Year One Outcome

By the end of Year One, trainees in the Dance Educator Pathways Teaching Program will have developed a solid foundation as dance educators, equipped with the technical skills in multi-genres, knowledge, and experience necessary to teach recreational-level classes and substitute teach effectively. The program is designed for individuals 16 years of age or older who are committed to pursuing a career in dance education. Year one curriculum will include:

1. Master Fundamental Teaching Skills:

Trainees will acquire the technical knowledge and pedagogical tools to confidently teach recreational dance classes. This includes the ability to break down movements, demonstrate techniques clearly, and adapt lessons to meet the needs of various skill levels.

2. Develop Classroom Management Techniques:

Trainees will learn effective communication, student motivation, and behavior management strategies, allowing them to create a positive, engaging, and safe learning environment for students of all ages and skill levels.

3. Teaching Preparedness:

Trainees will gain the experience and confidence necessary to teach recreational dance classes and step into substitute teaching roles. They will be trained to manage different classroom dynamics, adapt to various lesson plans, and maintain a productive class environment.

4. Gain Practical Teaching Experience:

Through direct teaching opportunities, observation, and mentorship, Trainees will develop their teaching style and refine their ability to deliver clear, effective instructions. Real-world practice, coupled with constructive feedback, will help them build confidence and competence as educators.

5. Anatomy for Dance:

Trainees will develop an understanding of basic anatomy. With the focus on how the body moves in the context of dance. This knowledge will help them teach with an emphasis on injury prevention, body alignment, and proper technique to ensure safe dance practices for their students.

6. Lifespan Development:

Trainees will explore the principles of human development, from childhood through adulthood, and how these stages affect learning and movement. This knowledge will enable them to adapt their teaching methods to suit various age groups and developmental stages, fostering a deeper understanding of how dancers' bodies and minds evolve over time.

7. Musicality & Artistry

Trainees will explore time signatures, rhythm, dynamics, and phrasing to develop musical artistry. Through practical application, they'll refine their skills and cultivate a unique artistic voice.

8. Choreography

Trainees will develop choreography skills for both stage and screen, creating routines for recitals, competitions, and camera work. They will also learn music editing techniques to enhance their performances and bring their artistic vision to life.

9. Business & Licensing

Trainees will explore key industry essentials, including business and licensing, safeguarding protocols, insurance, and music rights (SOCAN/Entandem). They will also develop professional skills in social media, communication, media relations, and interview preparation while building a strong resume, CV, and headshot. Additional aspects of career development and industry standards will be covered to ensure a well-rounded foundation for success.

Will be well-prepared to teach recreational-level classes with confidence, substitute teach effectively, and have a foundational understanding of anatomy and lifespan development that will inform their teaching practices.

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Year Two Outcome

Trainees have the option to continue on to Year Two of the Dance Educator Pathways Teaching Program and will further their knowledge in classical ballet and other dance genres in preparation to take on more challenging teaching roles including entering pupils in to examinations. The program is designed for individuals 17 years of age or older who have reached a minimum of RAD and/or ISTD Intermediate level in classical ballet. Year two curriculum will include:

1. Prepare for Teaching Higher Levels

Students will refine their teaching skills with a focus on higher-level Classical Ballet or Modern Theater instruction. They will build on the foundation established in Year One, developing the ability to teach intermediate and advanced students, with a deeper understanding of movement quality, technique, and artistic expression.

2. Work Towards ISTD Certification:

Students will be mentored and guided through the process of achieving the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Imperial Classical Ballet or Modern Theatre (Jazz/Musical Theatre/Contemporary) Teaching Qualification. This internationally recognized certification will provide students with the credentials and expertise needed to teach classical ballet at a professional level.

4. Continuing Knowledge of Dance Anatomy and Psychology:

Building on Year One’s anatomy studies, students will further their understanding of biomechanics and injury prevention specifically for more advanced students. They will learn how to modify techniques and adapt training to address the needs of aging bodies or those recovering from injury.

5. Receive Mentorship and Professional Development:

Through one-on-one mentorship and professional feedback, students will gain the confidence and insight necessary to become highly effective employable teachers. They will be guided through real-world teaching experiences and offered ongoing support as they refine their craft and grow as educators.

By the end of Year Two, Trainees will have the experience, advanced knowledge, and mentorship required to enter the associate ISTD Imperial Classical Ballet or Modern Theatre Teaching Examinations. Upon completing the examinations, trainees will have completed the program with the skills and qualifications required to excel as internationally recognized dance educators.