How to become a dance teacher

How to become a Dance Teacher

Becoming a dance teacher involves a combination of education, training, experience, and personal qualities. Here are the general steps you can take to pursue a career as a dance teacher:

• Develop Your Dance Skills: Start by gaining proficiency in the styles of dance you want to teach. Take classes, workshops, and intensives in ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, modern, or other dance styles. Focus on developing strong technique, musicality, performance skills, and artistry.
• Obtain Formal Education: While not always required, obtaining formal education in dance can provide valuable training and credentials. Consider enrolling in a college or university dance program or pursuing a degree in dance education, visual and performing arts, or dance studies. Alternatively, you can attend a specialized dance conservatory or academy.
• Gain Teaching Experience: Seek opportunities to gain teaching experience by assisting or apprenticing with experienced dance teachers, volunteering at dance schools or community centers, or teaching dance classes to friends, family members, or peers. Teaching experience, even in a volunteer or assistant capacity, can help you develop your teaching skills and gain practical experience working with students.
• Obtain Certifications or Credentials: Consider obtaining certifications or credentials that demonstrate your expertise as a dance teacher (see below).
• Network and Build Relationships: Build relationships within the dance community by networking with other dance teachers, studio owners, choreographers, and professionals in the field. Attend industry events, performances, and competitions to connect with peers and mentors who can offer guidance, support, and opportunities for growth.
• Prepare Your Teaching Materials: Develop lesson plans, curriculum materials, and teaching resources that align with your teaching philosophy, goals, and objectives. Tailor your teaching materials to the age, skill level, and interests of your students, and be prepared to adapt and modify your approach as needed to meet the needs of individual learners.
• Seek Employment Opportunities: Once you feel confident in your skills and qualifications, start seeking employment opportunities as a dance teacher. Look for openings at dance studios, schools, community centers, performing arts organizations, fitness facilities, or other venues that offer dance classes or programs.
• Apply For Teaching Positions: Prepare a professional resume, cover letter, and teaching portfolio showcasing your qualifications, experience, and accomplishments as a dance teacher. Apply for teaching positions that align with your skills, interests, and career goals, and be prepared to interview and audition for potential employers.
• Continue to Grow and Evolve: As you begin your career as a dance teacher, continue to grow and evolve as an educator by seeking feedback, reflecting on your teaching practices, and actively pursuing opportunities for professional development and growth. Stay passionate, dedicated, and committed to inspiring and empowering your students through the art of dance.

Certifications
Dance teachers can obtain various certifications or credentials to enhance their qualifications and credibility in the field. While certification requirements may vary depending on the dance style, organization, or institution, here are some common certifications for dance teachers:

• Dance Masters of America (DMA): DMA offers certification programs for dance teachers in various dance styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, and acrobatics. Certification levels range from Junior to Master, with requirements including written exams, teaching demonstrations, and performance evaluations.
• Royal Academy of Dance (RAD): RAD offers certification programs for ballet teachers through its teacher training programs and syllabus examinations. RAD certification provides comprehensive training in ballet pedagogy, technique, and curriculum development.
• Cecchetti Council of America (CCA): CCA offers certification programs for ballet teachers based on the Cecchetti method of classical ballet training. Certification levels include Associate, Licentiate, and Fellowship, with requirements including practical examinations, written tests, and teaching assessments.
• National Dance Education Organization (NDEO): NDEO offers certification programs for dance educators through its National Certification in Dance Education (NCDE) program. Certification is available at the Pre-K-12 and Higher Education levels and includes coursework, teaching portfolios, and assessments.
• Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT): PBT offers certification programs for dance teachers interested in incorporating the PBT method into their ballet classes. Certification includes training in PBT exercises, techniques, and teaching strategies.
• Acrobatic Arts: Acrobatic Arts offers certification programs for dance teachers interested in teaching acrobatics and tumbling skills. Certification includes training in acrobatic technique, progressions, and spotting techniques.
• Zumba Fitness: Zumba offers certification programs for dance fitness instructors interested in teaching Zumba classes. Certification includes training in Zumba choreography, music, and fitness principles.
• Yoga Alliance: While not specific to dance, Yoga Alliance offers certification programs for yoga teachers interested in incorporating yoga techniques into their dance classes. Certification includes training in yoga philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodology.