30 April 2024 10:37

New bursaries for aspiring dance teachers

We are thrilled to announce the launch of new bursaries following the receipt of a significant charitable grant from the Headley Trust.

This generous contribution will enable the RAD to further its mission of providing wider access and vital financial support to aspiring trainee dance teachers from a range of diverse backgrounds.

The funds from the Headley Trust grant, which is for two years, will be used to offer part bursary support for up to five UK students on the Certificate in Dance Teaching (Ballet) and one full bursary and three half bursaries on the Professional Dancers Graduate Teaching Diploma.

The Certificate in Dance Teaching (Ballet) programme is for students taking their first steps towards a career in ballet teaching, whilst the Professional Dancers Graduate Teaching Diploma is for professional dancers looking to transition from performing to a new career in teaching.

Speaking of the grant announcement, Dr Michelle Groves, Director of Education of RAD said: “Supporting aspiring trainee dance teachers is such an important factor if we are to diversify the workforce and enrich the experiences of our dance students. I am delighted that the Headley Trust shares our vision through providing financial support to the next generation of inspirational dance teachers.”

A career in dance

A dance career is one for life, with many RAD students going on to run successful dance schools and businesses across the globe.

The Creative Industries Federation reports that creative businesses represent over 5% of the UK economy and are responsible for more than 10%, or £27 billion, of the UK’s annual service exports.

The Faculty of Education currently has around 1,000 students from across 54 countries studying its dance education and teacher training programmes. The faculty offers six study programmes, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees validated by the University of Bath, and Awards of the RAD. Our distance learning programmes can be studied from anywhere worldwide and our students become part of a vibrant and international dance community. RAD graduates work in various teaching settings such as private dance schools, vocational schools, primary and secondary schools, community settings and in Further or Higher Education.

Applications for bursaries are now open and more information on how to apply can be found by visiting our page on financing your studies.