FAQ's
Q. I have seen this course advertised for a much greater price with other organisations, does this mean that their qualification is worth more?
A. If you are comparing courses for the IDTA Freestyle Associate then the qualification is the same whichever way you choose to train for it. We choose to keep our costs low as we know that starting out as a dance teacher can be a daunting prospect and there are other expenses such as your insurance and DBS to pay for - and we can afford to do this as we have great arrangements with our venues and a flexible approach to the way the training is provided.
Q. Will I be able to teach in schools with this qualification?
A. This qualification will NOT give you QTS (qualified teacher status to teach curriculum in state schools) but with this certificate and a DBS (which can be arranged through the IDTA scheme once you are qualified) you will be able to work in schools running after school clubs, lunchtime / breakfast clubs, activity days, workshops, show choreography and other non-curriculum activities. You will also be able to run your own private activities - classes, private lessons etc - or set up your own dance school if you wish.
Q. Why Freestyle? Is it just an easy option?
In a word - no! Freestyle is a recognised dance style of its own with competitions taking place all through the year and this training is ideal for those who are hoping to teach in this area. However if you have a general dance background and are hoping to set up classes such as after school clubs, Freestyle suits this type of learning because of the creative element to the dance. You can devise your own choreography and there is far less set work to learn than with ballet or tap or even ballroom etc. Because of it's 'open' nature it also suits dancers of many backgrounds - our Associate trainees have included people from backgrounds as diverse as Bollywood, contemporary, ballet, Afro-Brazilian, dance fitness and ballroom dancing. However the syllabus should not be seen as an 'easy option' as it will cover musicality, safety, anatomy, class structure, syllabus work, exercises and the art of choreography. These are useful principles for dancers of all techniques.
Q. What are the benefits of an IDTA qualification?
A. It is internationally recognised and the association is one of the largest in the world. Members have many benefits such as free seminars, publications and discounted rates to other events and products. Once qualified you will be eligible for full membership of the Association and therefore able to train candidates for IDTA awards and hold medal tests and you will be eligible to apply for your liability insurance and DBS through their member schemes.
Q. Are there any added costs?
A. You will need two textbooks available from the IDTA website. Currently these are offered at £30 for the pair. On passing your exam, you will be invited to be come a member of the IDTA which costs approximately £90 per year. As a professional dance teacher you will be expected to have insurance and a music licence among other legal compliance documents and these will be your own responsibility to upkeep.
Contact us with any other questions you may have.