If you think you can inspire young people and bring out the best of their dance technique and performance skills, then being a dance teacher is the career for you. There are many different types of dance teachers and many different ways of becoming a qualified dance teacher – DancingClasses.biz gives you the lowdown below.

What Qualifications Will I Need?
This depends entirely on the type of dance you will be teaching, and in what setting. To work in a private dance school, you’ll probably be teaching ballet or tap and so will need high grades in those styles and a teaching qualification from a board such as ISTD. However, this will vary from dance school to dance school, and if you are teaching a style such as contemporary or street then this may be assessed purely on your ability.

If you want to become a full time dance teacher in a school or a college, then you will need a keen interest in the subject and you’ll also need to study a PGCE – Postgraduate Certificate of Education. You can apply for this once you have a degree. However, PGCE courses in Dance are only offered at a few institutions and places are limited, so competition is fierce. You should also consider the future of dance in the curriculum, as there may not be many full time dance teaching jobs in high schools to go round.

Teaching in a Freelance Capacity
Most dance teachers working within the community sector work on a freelance basis. This means they are self-employed and have a portfolio career – they may even mix their dance teaching employment with other jobs to support themselves. Being a freelance teacher means you don’t always have a regular and guaranteed income so you need to think carefully about what this means compared to having a salaried job. On the other hand, many dance practitioners love the freedom and flexibility of being a freelance teacher, as no two days are ever the same and you can build the type of career you want.

In terms of qualifications for this kind of work, it really depends on the employer They may want to see a vast amount of teaching experience relevant to that sector, or a diploma or degree in dance may be enough. Here are some examples of settings freelance dance teachers might find work:
Schools – teaching dance in the curriculum or after school clubs
Community centres
Care homes – community dance sessions for the elderly
Nurseries – toddler sessions
Arts centres - Summer holiday workshops or regular classes
Private dance or performing arts schools

Teachers could also rent out studios at dance schools or gyms to set up their own class and make money from attendees.

If you would like to know more about becoming a dance teacher and setting up your own classes, please contact us.