Dance Teacher
Tasks & duties
Dance teachers may do some or all of the following:
-
assess students' dancing ability
-
plan dance programmes
-
explain and demonstrate dance steps and techniques
-
advise students on how to stand and move well, including teaching correct postural alignment and dance techniques to prevent injury
-
help students feel good about themselves and what they are doing
-
research the latest dance trends
Dance teachers who are involved in dance productions, create dances which they then direct.
Dance teachers who teach privately, manage their own dance schools or help run them.
Specialisations
Dance teachers may specialise in teaching certain styles of dance such as ballet, ballroom, tap, jazz, hip-hop and modern.
Skills & knowledge
Dance teachers need to have:
-
dance and teaching skills
-
understanding of music and rhythm
-
creative ability
-
understanding of body posture, movement and anatomy, to avoid injuries
-
the ability to choreograph shows
-
knowledge of dance therapies
-
understanding of child development
-
organisational ability
-
good communication skills
-
research skills for finding out about subjects for new dances
Dance teachers who run their own businesses, also need to have knowledge of business management, administration and finance.
Entry requirements
To become a dance teacher for an educational institute you need to have a tertiary qualification in dance or dance teaching, although sometimes experience is enough.
There are no specific tertiary education requirements for dance teachers working in private studios. Some teachers may gain qualifications through apprenticeships.
Secondary education
It is preferred that dance teachers have completed Sixth Form Certificate or NCEA equivalent.
Training on the job
Skills are gained on the job through practice and training. Dance teachers often attend dance and health workshops, and courses on business management and other related topics. They may also work as student teachers in dance schools.
Registration
It is preferred that dance teachers are registered.
Useful experience
Useful experience for dance teachers includes:
-
dancing and drama, including watching and being involved in dance performances
-
training as a teacher
-
recreation work
-
music teaching or tutoring
-
film work
Related courses
Dance
General Primary and Secondary Education
Teacher Professional Development
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
Document Actions