Diploma of Classical Ballet Teaching

New hybrid model launching 2027 – applications open summer 2026

The Royal Ballet School is currently redeveloping its Diploma of Dance Teaching to offer a more flexible, accessible and contemporary training experience for professional dancers and dance teachers worldwide. Following research and consultation with stakeholders, the School is designing a new hybrid delivery model that will combine in person and online learning to better support diverse professional and personal commitments.

The new Diploma will evolve to Diploma of Classical Ballet Teaching (DCBT), with a proposed launch date of January 2027 and applications opening in summer 2026. Stay tuned for full programme details, including new entry and exit points.

About the Diploma of Classical Ballet Teaching

The Diploma of Classical Ballet Teaching (DCBT) will prepare professional dancers, novice and experienced teachers to deliver classical ballet training to an international standard. The programme provides a rigorous foundation in both technical and creative pedagogical approaches, drawing on The Royal Ballet School’s vocational vocabulary, methodology and the most current research in dance education.

Course structure and delivery

The new hybrid model will offer a blend of:

• In person intensives and focus sessions at the School’s state of the art studios in Covent Garden and White Lodge
• Online learning including seminars, lectures, and guided study
• Mentored teaching practice in vocational or pre vocational settings
• Flexible pathways with planned entry and exit points to support different stages of a teacher’s professional journey.
• This structure is designed to increase accessibility for candidates based in the UK and internationally, while maintaining the depth, rigour and artistic excellence for which the School is known.

Specialisation options

Trainee teachers will have the opportunity to specialise in:

• Vocational training: preparing students for professional careers
• Pre-vocational training: supporting young dancers in foundational and developmental stage

Teaching faculty

The programme is delivered by The Royal Ballet School’s expert artistic staff and visiting lecturers, all of whom bring extensive professional experience in performance, pedagogy and research.

Course pathways

After successfully completing the 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 Diploma qualification to support graduates on their teaching journey with access to ISTD Full Teaching membership.

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 Royal Academy of Dance’s (RAD) list of dance awarding societies to offer Diploma 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.

Register your interest

Further details, including programme structure, module outlines and application guidance, will be published as development progresses. Register your interest below to be the first to hear news and updates.

Any questions?

I have gained so much from this course. I feel much more secure in my teaching practice and confident when working with a variety of ages and learners in a class. – Amber, DDT graduate

The diploma has been a life-changing experience. It has broadened my knowledge in many areas of ballet teaching and given me more confidence as a teacher. – Pippa, DDT graduate

The placements gave me the opportunity to put theory into practice. Being exposed to a vocational ballet school alongside very experienced teachers has been priceless and highly beneficial to my teaching practice. – Paula, DDT graduate