The Royal Ballet School has introduced new pathways for Diploma of Dance Teaching (DDT) students to join its Affiliate Programme and achieve accredited teacher status through partnerships with globally renowned dance education organizations, the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) and the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD).
Graduates of the School’s two-year DDT program, from 2014 onward, can now pursue three advanced routes to further their teaching credentials and professional recognition.
DDT students will be eligible to gain Royal Ballet School Affiliate Teacher status with the School’s Affiliate Programme through a condensed course of study, offering a mix of online and onsite training and self-study.
The Affiliate Programme is a unique, holistic and enriching approach to the training and assessment of ballet, ensuring that students can explore the art form fully through the Programme’s diverse components. It offers teachers a direct link to The Royal Ballet School, providing ongoing access to exclusive resources, advice, professional development and tutor expertise.
The ISTD will recognise the obtainment of the School’s DDT qualification to support graduates on their teaching journey with access to ISTD Full Teaching membership.
ISTD Full Teaching membership is designed for qualified dance teachers who are actively delivering classes and preparing students for examinations. Members gain access to a comprehensive suite of syllabi across 13 genres, alongside exclusive CPD training, teaching resources, and business support to enhance their professional practice.
As part of a global network, ISTD Full Teaching members benefit from recognition through the registered member logo and are supported in building inclusive, sustainable careers through progressive training, qualifications, and events.
The School will also join the RAD’s list of dance awarding societies to offer DDT graduates RAD Registered Teacher Status (RAD RTS).
This professional membership offers teachers a host of benefits to strengthen their reputation and employability.
Benefits of RAD RTS include the opportunity to appear on the global RAD Register of Teachers, enter students for RAD exams, enjoy the backing of a professional membership scheme, access tailored professional development, and be part of a vibrant global community of like-minded teachers.
Karen Berry, Head of Teacher Training at The Royal Ballet School said, “We’re thrilled that our Diploma of Dance Teaching (DDT) now offers even more to our graduate teachers…These new partnerships reflect our belief that outstanding teaching belongs in every studio and we’re proud to support our graduates in shaping the future of dance wherever they teach and whoever they inspire.”
Gemma Matthews, Director of Membership and Communications at ISTD said,“We’re delighted to welcome alumni of The Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching into the ISTD community, offering them a seamless route to access our world-class resources and support. At ISTD, we’re proud to champion excellence, diversity, and inclusivity in dance education, putting our members at the heart of everything we do.”
Penny Cotton, Director of Membership, Royal Academy of Dance added, “We are delighted to accept The Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching as a route to Registered Teacher Status and look forward to welcoming its graduates to our prestigious and highly regarded network of dance teachers. Our dance teachers are transforming lives throughout the world and inspiring others with their love for the artform and excellence in dance teaching.”
These pathways celebrate the expertise of DDT graduates and their vital contributions to the private dance teaching sector.
Applications for The Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching will open early 2026. Learn more here.
Share this:
