Dance education is constantly evolving. Where no uniformity of standardised training for educators in the recreational space exists, Sydney Dance Company’s training department have come to the fore and branched beyond their excellent dancer training programs, with a goal of developing the next generation of skilled dance educators.
Their newly launched Teacher Training program aims to set a new benchmark in the way we think about teaching movement — grounded in technique, driven by reflection and shaped by the needs of today’s learners. We sat down with Linda Ridgeway Gamblin from the company to discuss what makes this program so timely, relevant and unique.
What can we expect from Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training?
“Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training program is designed for both early-career and experienced teachers seeking to deepen their practice and connect with peers. Running part-time over 12 months, the program includes once-a-week theory lectures and tutorials during the school term. Delivered in person or online, these sessions offer space for reflection, discussion and exploration of key teaching concepts.
Across the year, four in-person week-long intensives bring everyone together to work with industry guests, academic researchers and movement specialists. These intensives create an environment for personal movement exploration and reflection, with opportunities to apply practical teaching methods in a safe and supportive setting.
At its core, the program encourages participants to reflect on what it means to teach dance today, balancing physical rigour, mental focus and inclusive practices in a way that supports both personal growth and professional development.”
What makes Sydney Dance Company’s approach to movement unique, and how does this shape the experience of participants in your Teacher Training Program?
“Sydney Dance Company’s approach to movement is grounded in both classical and contemporary techniques and methodologies, each valued equally. With an emphasis on inclusive and sustainable dance practices, and with the integration of technical skills and somatic principles, we cultivate a holistic and complete training environment.
This approach not only supports dancers in mastering their own movement, but also equips teachers to guide others with integrity, adaptability and care. It offers a refreshing framework for those looking to deepen their practice and teach in a way that is both reflective and responsive.”
Does the program focus on teaching a specific dance style?
“Teachers are supported to draw on their own technical foundations and backgrounds, applying a range of methods to inform and elevate their teaching practice. Our focus is on training educators, not prescribing a particular style or syllabus.
We explore movement with attention to the biomechanical, physiological and cognitive aspects of dance, engaging with evidence-based practices that support safe and effective dance teaching. Dance pedagogy is examined in depth, including class design, inclusive methods, effective feedback and the creation of supportive learning environments.
This empowers educators to teach any style with care and clarity, strengthening their delivery while expanding their artistic voice and contribution to the dance community.”
What defines education in dance today, and why does it matter?
“Being a dance educator today means staying responsive to the evolving needs of students and remaining aware of current industry standards. It’s more than teaching technique and choreography, it requires self-awareness, critical thinking and the ability to foster learning environments where students feel safe to explore and question.
Building a community of educators who value reflection is essential to the ongoing evolution of dance education across all styles. Our aim is to support teachers to grow as generous educators who will help shape a thoughtful and evolving dance culture.”
Why has Sydney Dance Company brought forward this course now?
“There’s a growing need for care and consistency in how we teach dance. With no formal qualification required to teach recreationally, the quality of training can vary widely. As both a leading contemporary dance company and a registered training organisation (RTO #45863), we believe it’s time to offer a clear and supportive pathway for educators who want to align their teaching with current best practices.
Today’s students expect more than technical instruction. They need learning environments that prioritise well-being and personal achievement. Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training program responds to the shifting expectations by supporting educators to engage with today’s teaching landscape with skill, resilience, relevance and sustainability.”
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training program is more than a course — it’s a commitment to cultivating thoughtful, skilled and adaptable dance educators for the future. By prioritising inclusivity, reflective practice and complete holistic training, the program empowers teachers to lead with confidence, care and creativity. As the dance world continues to shift, this initiative signals a powerful step forward for educators in any chosen style.
Find out more at www.sydneydancecompany.com/advanced-training/teacher-training.
