The RAD celebrates the next generation of dance teachers at its 2026 graduation ceremony

Yesterday, the Royal Academy of Dance held its annual Faculty of Education graduation ceremony at Cadogan Hall in London, celebrating the achievements of its international student body as they embark on careers as dance teachers.

The event featured a welcome address from RAD Chief Executive, Elizabeth Honer CB, with Artistic Director, Alexander Campbell, and President, Dame Darcey Bussell, presenting the graduates with their awards. Choreographer Kate Flatt OBE, who created the original musical staging for RSC’s Les Misérables, was guest speaker, and made a moving speech about the impact of dance teachers.

The ceremony recognised graduates from RAD’s diverse faculty of education programmes, reflecting the institution’s commitment to delivering excellence in dance education worldwide. The event celebrated the RAD’s long history of setting the standards in dance education for over one hundred years, and its role as a dance academy delivering specialised, expert training and education in dance teaching

Students from across the globe came together at the event, with graduates from countries including Brazil, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Mexico, Kenya and more.

Speaking of the news, Elizabeth Honer said: “Congratulations on graduating from the Royal Academy of Dance, a wonderful achievement. I wish you all every success as you continue your journey with the RAD, demonstrating the very best in dance teaching and learning. I look forward to us welcoming you into our global dance teaching community.”

Photos: Katie Butcher.