Celebrating World Teachers’ Day
At The Royal Ballet School, we’re excited to celebrate World Teachers’ Day by honouring the incredible teachers who inspire and support our students every day.
From ballet and academic teachers to those leading our Primary Steps and online programmes, each teacher plays a vital role in shaping the future of our students. We had the chance to chat with some of our wonderful teachers about their experiences and the passion they bring to their work.
Layla Harrison, White Lodge Ballet Teacher
What do you love about teaching at The Royal Ballet School?
I love being surrounded by those who share my passion for the art form. Our students are talented and hungry to train, and my fellow teachers inspire me every day to stay curious and continue to grow and learn. Our pianists are incredible, as is our Healthcare team who support both students and teachers. White Lodge was also my home growing up, so the magic of being back here working in such a beautiful setting each day feels like a privilege.
What’s the hardest thing about being a teacher?
Being a teacher is such a rewarding role while you are training and nurturing a student that it can then be hard when your journey together stops. You grow fond of your students and understand them well, having spent many hours working together, but no student will be training with you forever. A lovely thing about being a teacher here, however, is that you know the next stage of a student’s journey, and you are passing them on to someone you know and trust, which feels wonderful. I am fortunate in that I also get to see my previous year group students in artistic coaching sessions and other classes/rehearsals.
Robert Green, Mathematics Teacher & Head of Year 11
Did you have a teacher that inspired you?
Mr Mayou, my secondary maths teacher, was incredibly influential. He showed me different methods for problem-solving, helping me realise that I was capable of finding the answers. My dad also played a key role in my education by helping me memorise my times tables in a weekend!
What do you find most fulfilling?
The most fulfilling moment for me is when a student who has persevered finally ‘gets it.’ The sound of that ‘Ahhhh!’ of recognition, accompanied by a smile and a sense of achievement, is absolutely golden.
Emily Gibbs, Primary Steps Teacher
Did you have a teacher that inspired you?
Yes, a teacher called Clare Jones. She taught me from about secondary school age. She was incredibly supportive and played a significant role in my teaching journey by hiring me to teach at her dance school.
What do you find most fulfilling?
Seeing students being creative and truly enjoying dance, along with watching them grow as dancers and become more confident in themselves, is what I find most rewarding.
Kathryn Grant, Lead Teacher for EAL & Head of Year 9
What do you love about teaching at The Royal Ballet School?
The Royal Ballet School is such a unique setting. I get to work alongside colleagues from many different backgrounds, each bringing their own experiences and perspectives. Additionally, working with students from around the world, who share the same passion for dance despite their diverse cultures, makes every day exciting.
What’s the hardest thing about being a teacher?
Teaching extends far beyond the classroom. The preparation, marking, assessments, and admin tasks require significant time and energy. Plus, teachers often have little control over how their day is structured. When students arrive, we need to be ready for action without any easing into the day!
As we celebrate our dedicated teachers today, we recognise their commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers and leaders. Thank you for all that you do.
