News
Inclusivity at the heart of teacher training The ISTD Academy is expanding opportunities in dance teacher training. As the Academy continues to grow, we’re taking time to celebrate our developments while setting the stage for a brighter, more inclusive future. Alongside delivering exceptional dance teacher training, our strategic aim is to create an accessible and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
Where are we now? Natalie Dickmann ISTD Academy Programme Manager
Since becoming an Approved Dance Centre (ADC) in 2023, the Academy has reached some notable milestones. We’ve launched five online, part-time intensive courses, reaching participants across six different countries, including Malaysia and America! These courses are tailored to fit into the busy lives of both aspiring and experienced teachers, breaking barriers of geography and accessibility. We’re proud to have supported students through various examinations, including: • Licentiate Imperial Classical Ballet (ICB) • Diploma in Dance Pedagogy (DDP) • Diploma in Teaching Community Dance (DTCD) • Units 1 and 5 of the Diploma in Dance Education (DDE) One of our most significant achievements has been piloting the ISTD’s innovative Level 4 teaching qualification, the Diploma in Teaching Community Dance (DTCD). This course supports those who are passionate about teaching in community settings and want a regulated teaching qualification, particularly individuals who may not have followed traditional dance routes. By equipping students with essential teaching skills and a strong foundation in inclusivity, the DTCD is opening doors for a more diverse range of dance teachers enabling them to gain a qualification and become an ISTD member.
14 Dance | Issue 504
What’s next? Initial Teaching Qualifications We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming Level 4 courses designed to meet the needs of student teachers around the world. • Level 4 Diploma in Teaching Community Dance (DTCD): A one-year course starting in September 2025 • Level 4 DDE Unit 1 (Preparing for Safe Teaching Practice): Short course starting in January 2026 • Level 4 DDE Unit 5 (Child Development): Short course starting in April 2026 Higher Teaching Qualifications For experienced teachers, the level 6 DDP has always been a popular choice for those wanting a regulated higher teaching qualification. • Level 6 Diploma in Dance Pedagogy (DDP): A two-year course starting in September 2025 Students focus on analysis and higher-level teaching strategies with 1-1 support from mentors. A highly successful programme that enables progression routes to further study with a master’s degree or to ISTD Fellowship. Don’t forget there are options to use Licentiate as an exemption for DDP unit 4, so you combine the best of ISTD higher teaching qualifications. All our courses will be led by highly experienced lecturers and mentors who are dedicated to fostering inclusivity and excellence in dance education. Keep an eye on www.istd.org/teach/ istd-academy for even more exciting announcements, including upcoming street dance associate opportunities!
