The School announce new teaching pathways and partnerships with RAD and ISTD

We are pleased to announce new pathways for our Diploma of Dance Teaching (DDT) students to access a direct route into our Affiliate Programme, and gain accredited teacher status with world leading dance education, training and examination boards, The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) and the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). 

After successfully completing the School’s two-year Diploma course, graduates from 2014 to present will be eligible for three onward routes to further their teaching education and recognition. 

The Royal Ballet School Affiliate Teacher status 

Diploma students will be eligible to gain Affiliate Teacher status with our Affiliate Programme through a condensed course of study, offering a mix of online and onsite training and self-study.

The Affiliate Programme is a unique, holistic and enriching approach to the training and assessment of ballet, ensuring that students can explore the art form fully through the Programme’s diverse components. It offers teachers a direct link to The Royal Ballet School, providing ongoing access to exclusive resources, advice, professional development and tutor expertise. 

ISTD Full Teaching membership 

The ISTD will recognise the obtainment of the School’s DDT qualification to support graduates on their teaching journey with access to ISTD Full Teaching membership.

ISTD Full Teaching membership is designed for qualified dance teachers who are actively delivering classes and preparing students for examinations. Members gain access to a comprehensive suite of syllabi across 13 genres, alongside exclusive CPD training, teaching resources, and business support to enhance their professional practice.  

As part of a global network, ISTD Full Teaching members benefit from recognition through the registered member logo and are supported in building inclusive, sustainable careers through progressive training, qualifications, and events. 

RAD Registered Teacher Status 

The School will also join the RAD’s list of dance awarding societies to offer DDT graduates RAD Registered Teacher Status (RAD RTS).   

This professional membership offers teachers a host of benefits to strengthen their reputation and employability. 

Benefits of RAD RTS include the opportunity to appear on the global RAD Register of Teachers, enter students for RAD exams, enjoy the backing of a professional membership scheme, access tailored professional development, and be part of a vibrant global community of like-minded teachers. 

Karen Berry, Head of Teacher Training at The Royal Ballet School said: 

‘We’re thrilled that our Diploma of Dance Teaching (DDT) now offers even more to our graduate teachers. Graduates can now apply for Affiliate Teacher status with The Royal Ballet School, permitting them to gain access to support in student training and student assessment materials. In addition, we’re also proud to share that both the RAD and ISTD are now offering teaching membership opportunities to DDT graduates, acknowledging the strength of the DDT qualification and the value our graduates bring to the dance education community. These new partnerships reflect our belief that outstanding teaching belongs in every studio and we’re proud to support our graduates in shaping the future of dance wherever they teach and whoever they inspire.’ 

Gemma Matthews, Director of Membership and Communications at ISTD said:  

‘We’re delighted to welcome alumni of The Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching into the ISTD community, offering them a seamless route to access our world-class resources and support. At ISTD, we’re proud to champion excellence, diversity, and inclusivity in dance education, putting our members at the heart of everything we do.’ 

Penny Cotton, Director of Membership, Royal Academy of Dance added:  

‘We are delighted to accept The Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching as a route to Registered Teacher Status and look forward to welcoming its graduates to our prestigious and highly regarded network of dance teachers. Our dance teachers are transforming lives throughout the world and inspiring others with their love for the artform and excellence in dance teaching.’ 

These new pathways recognise the depth of teaching skills of our DDT graduate teachers and the vital role they play in the private dance teaching sector.  

Applications for The Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching will open early 2026. Learn more here. 

Photo credit: © 2023 The Royal Ballet School. Photography by Rachel Cherry.