60 seconds with…Felicity Kerr, Programme Manager for the Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies                                

What got you interested in dance teacher education?

Dance has always been such an integral part of my life and through my practices as a dance teacher and educator I hope to impart and instil the same passion and love that I have for this dynamic art form. I am privileged to work with vocational HE students as well as children in the private sector, and I aim to empower each individual through dance, whether they go on to further study or become the audience of tomorrow. What I love most about working with dance teachers as students are the opportunities to learn alongside them, which is something I find immensely rewarding.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your role as Programme Manager?

Since starting as Programme Manager of the Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies (DDTS) in September 2020, I have been struck by the convenience and depth this two-year programme offers students. Working with the tutors who lead on the modules has really given me an insight to how the programme sits as a whole. As Programme Manager, I have the pleasure of working with students from all over the world, and am committed to helping them make the most of their studies. As well as programme-related guidance, I also enjoy meeting up with students over Zoom for a social catch-ups, dependent on time zones!

Why is the Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies so unique?

The programme offers dance teachers the opportunity to dig deeper into their practice through a series of teaching placements in their place of employment. Though students study via distance learning, the structure of the programme allows for quite a bit of group interaction with a diverse, multi-cultural cohort of colleagues. As well as providing the flexibility for students to fit their studies around their work/life commitments, the Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies also provides eligibility to Registered Teacher Status with the RAD.  For those students who ‘get the study bug’, successful completion of the programme allows progression to the BA Dance Education programme at Level 5.  One of the most unique aspects of the programme is that it is not genre specific, so our student cohorts are made up of a range of teachers in terms of what type of dance they teach. As well as being tutored by very experienced tutors, students are assigned a Practical Teaching Supervisor who, as well as assessing some modules, also acts as a ‘critical colleague’ to discuss ideas and practices. The relationships that students build with their Practical Teaching Supervisor is so valuable in helping to identify connections and taking personal practice to the next level.

Who is the Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies for?

The Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies is for experienced and qualified dance teachers who wish to deepen their knowledge and understanding of teaching dance, and to reflect critically on their practices as a means to greater understanding of who they are as dance teachers, in other words the how, what, and why of dance teaching.  Anyone who is passionate about dance teaching should seriously consider joining the programme, which will develop and enhance their personal and professional lifelong learning.

What advice would you give to individuals looking to apply to the programme?

Whilst there are entry requirements, the Faculty of Education recognises that not everyone will have formal qualifications but may have a lot of experience as a dance teacher.  If this sounds like you, then I would encourage anyone who is interested taking their careers to the next level to apply through the concessionary entry route. The programme suits learners at all stages of their teaching careers so whether you are interested in formalising your wealth of teaching experience, or if you are curious and have a passion for developing your practice, the Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies will support you on every step of your journey.

Interested in learning more about the Diploma in Dance Teaching Studies? Join our Information Session on 14 April by visiting our registration page.