The Australian Ballet School has launched a new Teacher Training Program, extending its contribution to dance education through professional development for current and aspiring dance educators.

Building on more than 60 years of excellence in dance training, the program has been developed in response to the evolving nature of dance education and the importance of ongoing professional learning.

Every dancer’s experience is shaped by the quality of the teaching they receive. The new program has been designed to support educators at different stages of their professional journey, from established teachers seeking to deepen their practice to those preparing for a future in teaching.

Megan Connelly, Artistic Director and Head of School, said, “Supporting educators is one of the most meaningful ways we can contribute to the future of dance. Great teachers change lives. Countless dancers can point to a teacher who inspired them, challenged them or helped them believe in themselves. Great teaching goes beyond the pursuit of technical excellence in the studio. It is about nurturing and empowering young people to learn, grow and thrive.”

The program has been developed under the leadership of Mark Annear, Head of Teacher Training. Annear said, “Dance education continues to evolve, and educators are balancing a broader range of responsibilities than ever before. Along with artistic excellence, today’s teachers draw on professional judgement, wellbeing-informed practice, leadership and an understanding of how students learn and develop. This program has been designed to support educators in developing those capabilities and to foster high-quality learning experiences for dancers.”

Designed for teachers at all stages of their careers, as well as dancers pursuing a pathway into teaching, the Teacher Training Program combines flexible, part-time study with online learning, onsite intensive experiences and a mentored teaching placement.

Participants engage with a broad range of topics that reflect The Australian Ballet School’s approach to dance education, including artistic excellence, professional practice, scientific and psychological integrity, leadership, and approaches to teaching and learning that support dancer development and wellbeing.

The program has been designed to enable participants from diverse locations and contexts to engage in high-quality professional learning while balancing existing commitments.

The founding cohort will commence in 2027. Applications are now open.

For more information and to apply, visit australianballetschool.com.au.