About Sydney Dance Company
Sydney Dance Company is at the forefront of contemporary dance, pioneering and continually evolving the artform. Under the artistic directorship of Rafael Bonachela since 2009, the Company has built an international reputation that reflects contemporary Australia on a global stage. Its ensemble of 17 dancers performs a diverse repertoire, featuring works by Bonachela alongside guest choreographers such as Stephen Page, Jacopo Godani, Melanie Lane, Alexander Ekman, Gideon Obarzanek, Marina Mascarell, Antony Hamilton, Gabrielle Nankivell and Cheng Tsung-lung. The Company collaborates widely with partners including Sydney Festival, the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Conservatorium of Music, as well as Composing Women and composers Bryce Dessner, Nick Wales, Clark, 48nord and the late Ezio Bosso.
In 2014 Sydney Dance Company launched its Pre-Professional Year (PPY), a full-time training program for aspiring professional dance artists, providing world-class training in an unparalleled environment. Since then, Sydney Dance Company’s training programs have expanded and include not only the full-time PPY program but also Accredited Short Courses, Professional Intensives, Youth Ensembles and other part-time professional training designed to master dance practice, performance and choreography.
As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #45863), Sydney Dance Company launched its inaugural Teacher Training program in July 2025, welcoming the first cohort into this new initiative.
“Each movement in dance is a reflection of the beauty of impermanence, a fleeting conversation between the dancer and the dance. To educate in such an art form is, in itself, an art form.”
Rafael Bonachela, Artistic Director
Message from Head of Training
Linda Gamblin
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training invites us to reimagine the art of teaching dance. More than a program, it is a collective commitment to shaping a culture of education that embraces not only the physical but also the mental, emotional and intuitive layers of training and performance.
Over many years of teaching, witnessing the daily growth of artists, I have learned what truly supports development, what hinders it and the nuanced approaches diverse learners need. These insights continue to inform a shift in the culture of dance education, placing greater emphasis on inclusive practices and prioritising the health and vitality of both dancer and teacher.
Through research, collaboration and lived experience, we redefine what it means to educate with integrity, inspire with purpose and shape environments that are responsive, rigorous and safe.
“Dance is a visceral language, transcending words to forge profound connections with our audiences and peers. It is this multifaceted beauty that we aim to preserve and pass on to every student.”
Linda Gamblin, Head of Training
Our Studios
Sydney Dance Company is situated on the lands and over the waters of the Gadigal.
Since 1986 the Wharf Studios in the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct have been home to generations of renowned dancers and the foundation of performances that have brought world-wide acclaim.
Our state-of-the-art studios and facilities provide myriad opportunities to delve into dance, performance, training and wellness.
In addition to five studios, Sydney Dance Company has a fully equipped Conditioning Studio and a 79-seat black-box studio theatre for regular performance and industry networking opportunities. Over the years, hundreds of thousands of dancers have been taught in our studios.
About Teacher Training
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training offers aspiring and experienced dance educators a comprehensive pathway to refine their teaching skills and personal practice. Whether you are a dance professional transitioning from a performance career, a dance student aspiring to teach, or an experienced teacher looking to refine your craft, this program offers a unique opportunity to master the art of movement and dance pedagogy.
Through foundational principles and advanced teaching strategies, you will explore engaging and effective dance programs that foster personal agency, creative expression, and a deep connection to movement potential. Emphasising embodied teaching practices, the Teacher Training program ensures every dance class, workshop, and learning experience embraces a holistic understanding of dance as an art form.
“By sharing insights and methods, we collectively shift paradigms and enhance our approaches to teaching and learning.”
Lexy Panetta, Learning Associate
Training Delivery and Dates
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training is a part-time program delivered over 12 months, with the option to extend to 18 months. Blending theoretical study with practical experience, the program includes weekly lectures offered in person or online, alongside four immersive one-week intensives held at our world-class studios in the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct in Sydney. With biannual intakes in January and July, participants can choose a start date that best suits their schedule, ensuring flexibility to balance study with work and other commitments.
Practical Intensives
Delivered in our Walsh Bay Arts Precinct studios Sydney, these week-long intensives (Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 5:00pm) are an opportunity to come together in person to participate in interactive learning, reflect on best teaching practices and collaborate with peers and faculty.
Weekly Lectures
Weekly theory sessions run for eight Tuesday mornings (10:30am – 12:00pm) each NSW school term, offered face-toface in our meeting rooms or virtually for added flexibility. The lecture portion of each session is recorded for those unable to attend at the scheduled time. Viewing of these recordings are available through the Learning Management System for one month only.
Term One 2026
26 - 30 January: Practical Intensive
• Dance Pedagogy #1
10 February - 31 March: Tuesday Lectures
• Dance Pedagogy #1
Term Two 2026
20 - 24 April: Practical Intensive
• Choreographic Practice
28 April - 16 June: Tuesday Lectures
• Safe Spaces for Children & Young People
• Inclusive Performing Arts Culture
Term Three 2026
13 - 17 July: Practical Intensive
• Dance Pedagogy #2
28 July - 15 September: Tuesday Lectures
• Dance Pedagogy #2
Term Four 2026
5 - 9 October: Practical Intensive
• Movement Mastery
13 October - 1 December: Tuesday Lectures
• Investigating Business Opportunities
• Self-Compassion & Resilience
*Please note 2026 dates are subject to change. 2027 dates will be confirmed towards the middle of 2026.
Schedule of Fees
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training fee is $6,950.00 (GST free). Upon acceptance, you will be required to confirm your position within seven days of receiving your letter of offer by paying the enrolment fee.
As a part-time student in Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training program, we encourage you to engage with a range of activities to enrich your experience. To support your learning and professional development, we offer the following additions:
• Complimentary 12-month access to Classes On Demand (valued at $195)
• Complimentary 10-Class Pack to expand your training in a variety of dance styles within Sydney Dance Company’s Open Dance Class program (valued at $225)
• Discounts to classes and merchandise, as well as Sydney Dance Company performances during special promotions
Upon completion of Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training, you will gain access to a 30% discount on all Accredited Short Courses to assist you in staying up to date with your dance teaching and professional development. This engagement supports dance teachers and industry leaders in consistently revisiting and exploring teaching practices while staying connected as a community. These opportunities allow us to reflect on our growth, embrace updated knowledge, and continue driving meaningful change in our industry. We will also advertise free events from time to time to connect and inspire, so stay in touch!
Accreditation
CUAWHS411 Apply movement and behavioural principles to conditioning
CUADTM413 Apply safe dance teaching methods
CUADTM431 Design and conduct dance learning program
CUACHR412 Create short dance pieces
CUADTM421 Teach basic dance techniques
CUAWHS405 Provide a safe performing arts environment for children
CUADTM412 Promote the physical and emotional wellbeing of children in performing arts
CUAMWB401 Develop and implement own self-care plan in the creative industries
Upon successful completion of Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training program, the nationally recognised qualification CUA40320 Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management will be awarded.
Sydney Dance Company is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #45863).
CUAWHS413 Incorporate anatomy principles into skill development
CUADTM405 Teach basic contemporary dance technique
CUADTM441 Plan and conduct assessment activities for dance
BSBESB401 Research and develop business plans
BSBTWK301 Use inclusive work practices
HLTAID011 Provide first aid*
*The unit of competency HLTAID011 Provide First Aid must be completed externally through an accredited provider. Sydney Dance Company does not deliver this unit. The CUA40320 Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management cannot be awarded until this requirement is fulfilled.
Module Overview
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training is built around nine core modules, each carefully designed to provide in-depth exploration of key teaching principles. The flexible structure of the delivery allows you to balance your studies alongside other commitments.
Module 1 (Practical and Theoretical) Dance Pedagogy
Guided by experienced dance teachers, industry specialists and academic researchers, this module combines practical application with theoretical exploration to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to excel as a dance educator. Core areas include learning styles and theories, cognitive processes, cueing, instruction and feedback, and the evolving role of the teacher. Through lectures and collaborative workshops, you will examine, debate and reflect on impactful philosophies and approaches for delivering impactful dance programs, while collectively exploring effective language for guiding efficient movement.
Module 2 (Practical and Theoretical)
Design a Dance Program
Designing impactful dance programs for diverse learner groups builds on the foundations of Module 1, exploring how to set clear expectations, respond to varied student needs and ensure appropriate resources and assessment strategies are in place. This module emphasises rigorous teaching protocols, inclusive approaches and alignment with different learning styles and philosophies. By the end of the module you will have created three comprehensive dance programs that integrate structured planning and evaluation methods to support ongoing growth for all learners.
Module 3 (Practical)
Movement Mastery
Movement Mastery is an exploration of diverse movement techniques and body awareness philosophies, led by expert educators, choreographers and movement specialists. Across this one-week intensive, you will engage in improvisation, somatic self-observation, functional anatomy, kinaesthetic principles and mindful movement practices, cultivating a deeper understanding of deliberate action in motion. By expanding your awareness of how you move, you will gain valuable insight, confidence and clarity to enrich your personal teaching practice.
Module Overview
Module 4 (Practical and
Theoretical)
Embodied Anatomy
Working from a biomechanical perspective ensures that all bodies, regardless of their anatomical structure, can achieve optimal proficiency in dance technique. This inclusive method emphasises that every dancer can succeed by working with their own unique physicality and athleticism. Through understanding how the body moves most efficiently, you will learn how to guide dance students to advance their technique and reduce the risk of injury, leading to greater confidence and longevity in their dance practice. This approach will empower your students to unlock greater freedom of movement and alignment and become self-directed in their progress.
Module 5 (Practical and Theoretical)
Choreographic Practice
This specialised intensive equips dance teachers with a diverse range of tools, techniques, methods, and processes to enhance their dance-making skills and choreographic practice. Guided by influential choreographers and educators, you will develop strategies through creative development activities and task-based approaches to generating movement. This workshop and lecture series supports the growth of your artistic voice, providing both inspiration and practical skills to create thoughtful dance phrases for your classes and choreographic projects. It also equips you to bring creative ideas to life and work efficiently under pressure.
Module
6 (Practical and Theoretical)
Self-Compassion & Resilience
As teachers we understand the importance of leading by example. How can we care for others if we don’t first care for ourselves? This module explores the vital role of selfcompassion in building resilience by fostering emotional intelligence and adaptability. Through guided reflection, both practical and theoretical, you will gain tools to maintain a well-balanced life. By broadening our awareness of the connections between mind, thought, and action, and considering how these impact health and happiness, personal and professional success becomes attainable and sustainable. With this mindset, your effectiveness as educators and role models will be enhanced, enabling you to better support the growth and well-being of your students.
Module 7 (Theoretical)
Inclusive Performing Arts Culture
Designed to cultivate a respectful and inclusive culture in both dance teaching and the broader performing arts workplaces, we will explore strategies for fostering an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected and supported, regardless of their background, identity or ability. Key topics include inclusive teaching methods, embracing diversity in the dance studio and implementing respectful workplace practices. Through discussions, case studies and practical exercises, participants will gain the tools to build a culture that promotes creativity, collaboration and mutual respect across all areas of the performing arts industry.
Module 8 (Theoretical)
Safe Spaces for Children & Young People
This module focuses on creating safe, supportive, and nurturing environments for children and young people to thrive in dance and performing arts settings. We will explore best practices for establishing physical and emotional safety, ensuring young learners feel valued, respected, and protected. Key topics include creating a safeguarding policy, building inclusive spaces, setting clear boundaries and fostering positive relationships that promote trust, resilience and well-being. Through discussions and practical strategies, this module equips teachers and leaders with the tools to create environments where children and young people can flourish both artistically and personally.
Module 9 (Theoretical)
Investigating Business Opportunities
This module explores creative business opportunities within the dance and performing arts sector, focusing on sustainable models that balance artistic integrity with financial viability. Together, we develop entrepreneurial thinking as we research and design business plans aligned with your goals, values and objectives. Through market research, critical analysis and strategic planning, you’ll challenge industry assumptions, establish your unique selling point and develop a comprehensive business case.
Meet the Training Team
“Students learn as much from who the teacher is, as they do from what the teacher teaches.”
Linda Gamblin, Head of Training
Link to Bios
Juliette Barton Training Associate
Eugénie English Learning Administrator
Tobiah Booth-Remmers Course Coordinator Pre-Professional Year
Felicity McGee Conditioning Studio Manager
Linda Gamblin Head of Training
Sam Dashwood Head of Open Programs & Learning
Lexy Panetta Learning Associate
Application Process
Sydney Dance Company welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds with a variety of dance training experiences. We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.
Applicants must be at least 17 years of age and demonstrate competency in their chosen dance genre or style, with a curiosity about teaching dance. A foundation in classical or contemporary dance technique is required, as is proficiency in written and spoken English. Support and learning adjustments can be provided as needed to ensure an inclusive learning environment.
Eligibility
• Demonstrated competency in your chosen dance genre or style at a Certificate IV level of dance training or equivalent.
• Australian or New Zealand citizenship, or an appropriate residency visa that allows you to reside and study in Australia for the duration of the program. Sydney Dance Company cannot arrange student visas.
Applications must be submitted online via our website. Applicants are required to include at least one video link in the online application form, along with a brief description of their dance background and interest in dance teaching.
Preferred Video Submission
• 1 x contemporary dance or ballet technique
• 1 x own choice of style (Sydney Dance Company encourages applicants to include videos of cultural dance styles if relevant to their application).
If you require any support or adjustments to complete your application, please contact:
Eugènie English (She/her)
Learning Administrator
eugenice@sydneydancecompany.com +61 2 9258 4886
Inclusivity and Support for Participants
Sydney Dance Company is committed to creating an inclusive environment that supports participants of all abilities. We welcome individuals with disabilities and provide tailored support, including accessible learning spaces, flexible assessment options, technology support and individualised learning plans. By working closely with each participant to address specific needs, we ensure that everyone can fully engage in the program and thrive in their teaching journey.
Link to Apply
