About Sydney Dance Company
Sydney Dance Company is a not-forprofit organisation supported by Creative Australia and Create NSW. Actively creating and touring new work under the Artistic Directorship of Rafael Bonachela since 2009, the Company maintains an ensemble of 17 professional dancers. Programs of dance feature works by Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela and guest choreographers including Jacopo Godani, Melanie Lane, Alexander Ekman, Gideon Obarzanek, Marina Mascarell, Antony Hamilton, Gabrielle Nankivell, and Cheng Tsung-lung, as well as collaborations with Sydney Festival, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Sydney Conservatorium of Music Composing Women, and composers Bryce Dessner, Nick Wales, Clark, 48nord, and the late Ezio Bosso.
In 2014, Sydney Dance Company launched its Pre-Professional Year (PPY), a full-time training program for aspiring professional dance artists, providing world-class training in an unparalleled environment. Since then, Sydney Dance Company’s training programs have expanded and include not only the full-time PPY program but also Accredited Short Courses, Professional Intensives, Youth Ensembles and other part-time professional training designed to master dance practice, performance and choreography.
Now a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #45863), Sydney Dance Company presents its inaugural Teacher Training program in 2025.
“Each movement in dance is a reflection of the beauty of impermanence, a fleeting conversation between the dancer and the dance. To educate in such an art form is, in itself, an art form.”
Rafael Bonachela, Artistic Director
Message from Head of Training
Linda Gamblin
I am thrilled to introduce Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training, an innovative program for those passionate about dance and committed to pioneering the future of dance education. Through our ever-evolving training programs, we have expanded not only in scope, but also in our understanding of what it truly means to educate, inspire, and sustain a thriving dance community.
Over years of teaching, training, and witnessing the daily growth of artists within our programs, we have gained profound insights into what works, what doesn’t, and the nuanced approaches needed for diverse learners. These experiences continue to inform a shift in the culture of dance education, placing greater emphasis on safe and inclusive practices and prioritising the health and vitality of both dancer and teacher. Built on collaboration, research, and the spirit of exploration, Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training reflects a new era of dance education.
“Dance is a visceral language, transcending words to forge profound connections with our audiences and peers. It is this multifaceted beauty that we aim to preserve and pass on to every student.”
Linda Gamblin, Head of Training
Our Studios
Sydney Dance Company is situated on the lands and over the waters of the Gadigal.
Since 1986 the Wharf Studios in the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct have been home to generations of renowned dancers and the foundation of performances that have brought world-wide acclaim.
Our state-of-the-art studios and facilities provide myriad opportunities to delve into dance, performance, training and wellness.
In addition to five studios, Sydney Dance Company has a fully equipped Conditioning Studio and a 79-seat black-box studio theatre for regular performance and industry networking opportunities. Over the years, hundreds of thousands of dancers have been taught in our studios.
About Teacher Training
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training offers aspiring and experienced dance educators a comprehensive pathway to refine their teaching skills and personal practice. Whether you are a dance professional transitioning from a performance career, a dance student aspiring to teach, or an experienced teacher looking to refine your craft, this program offers a unique opportunity to master the art of movement and dance pedagogy.
Through foundational principles and advanced teaching strategies, you will explore engaging and effective dance programs that foster personal agency, creative expression, and a deep connection to movement potential. Emphasising embodied teaching practices, the Teacher Training program ensures every dance class, workshop, and learning experience embraces a holistic understanding of dance as an art form.
“By sharing insights and methods, we collectively shift paradigms and enhance our approaches to teaching and learning.”
Lexy Panetta, Learning Associate
Training Delivery and Dates
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training is a part-time program delivered over 12 months, with the flexibility to extend to 18 months. Blending theoretical study with practical experience, the program offers weekly lectures and tutorials, available in person or online, alongside immersive intensives held at our world-class studios in the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct in Sydney. Designed to provide both structure and adaptability, the program equips dance educators with the skills, knowledge and confidence to inspire generations of students.
With bi-annual intakes in July 2025 and January 2026, you can choose a start date that aligns with your schedule, making it easier to balance professional development with personal commitments. This flexibility ensures that aspiring and experienced dance teachers alike can deepen their expertise while maintaining their existing work and life responsibilities.
Practical Intensives
Each week-long practical intensive runs from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, and is a core requirement for accreditation. These intensives are delivered in person only.
Practical Intensive Dates
21 July - 25 July 2025
Dance Pedagogy
6 October - 10 October 2025
Movement Mastery
26 January - 30 January 2026 * Dance Pedagogy (Continued)
20 April - 24 April 2026 * Choreographic Practice
* Please note 2026 dates are subject to change. Dates will be confirmed towards the end of 2025.
Lectures and Tutorials
The theory component of Teacher Training is delivered through weekly 1.5-hour lectures and tutorials, held on Tuesday mornings from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm during NSW school term dates. Sessions take place in person in our meeting rooms or virtually. The lecture portion of each session is recorded for those unable to attend. The interactive discussions and tutorials that follow will not be recorded.
Lecture and Tutorial Dates
29 July - 23 September 2025
Modules:
• Dance Pedagogy
• Design a Dance Program
• Embodied Anatomy
14 October - 2 December 2025
Modules:
• Self-Compassion and Resilience
• Investigating Business Opportunities
10 February - 31 March 2026 *
Modules:
• Design a Learning Program
• Choreographic Practice
• Self-Compassion and Resilience
28 April - 23 June 2026 *
Modules:
• Dance Pedagogy
• Safe Spaces for Children and Young People
• Inclusive Performing Arts Culture
Schedule of Fees
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training fee is $6,950.00 (GST free). Upon acceptance, you will be required to confirm your position within seven days of receiving your letter of offer by paying the enrolment fee.
Included Extras
As a part-time student in Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training program, we encourage you to engage with a range of activities to enrich your experience. To support your learning and professional development, we offer the following additions:
• Complimentary 12-month access to Classes On Demand (valued at $195)
• Complimentary 10-Class Pack to expand your training in a variety of dance styles within Sydney Dance Company’s Open Dance Class program (valued at $225)
• One complimentary Private Pilates Sessions in our state-of-the-art Conditioning Studio (valued at $135)
• Opportunities to observe classes and rehearsals with the Pre-Professional Year Students
• Discounts to classes, merchandise and Sydney Dance Company performances.
Upon completion of Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training, you will gain access to a 30% discount on all Accredited Short Courses to assist you in staying up to date with your dance teaching and professional development. This engagement supports dance teachers and industry leaders in consistently revisiting and exploring teaching practices while staying connected as a community. These opportunities allow us to reflect on our growth, embrace updated knowledge, and continue driving meaningful change in our industry. We will also advertise free events from time to time to connect and inspire, so stay in touch!
Accreditation
CUADTM413 Apply safe dance teaching methods
CUADTM431 Design and conduct dance learning program
CUACHR412 Create short dance pieces
CUADTM421 Teach basic dance techniques
CUAWHS405 Provide a safe performing arts environment for children
CUADTM412 Promote the physical and emotional wellbeing of children in performing arts
CUAMWB401 Develop and implement own self-care plan in the creative industries
CUAWHS413 Incorporate anatomy principles into skill development
Upon successful completion of Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training program, the nationally recognised qualification CUA40320 Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management will be awarded.
Sydney Dance Company is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #45863).
CUADTM405 Teach basic contemporary dance technique
CUADTM441 Plan and conduct assessment activities for dance
BSBESB301 Investigate business opportunities
BSBESB401 Research and develop business plans
BSBTWK301 Use inclusive work practices
HLTAID011 Provide first aid*
*The unit of competency HLTAID011 Provide First Aid must be completed externally through an accredited provider. Sydney Dance Company does not deliver this unit. The CUA40320 Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management cannot be awarded until this requirement is fulfilled.
Module Overview
Sydney Dance Company’s Teacher Training is built around nine core modules, each carefully designed to provide in-depth exploration of key teaching principles. The flexible structure of the delivery allows you to balance your studies alongside other commitments.
Module 1 (Practical)
Movement Mastery for Dance Teachers
Through practice, observation and reflection, you will embody and explore dance techniques that challenge and inspire both yourself and the students you teach. Led by expert dance educators, choreographers and movement specialists, this one-week practical intensive delves into a diverse range of somatic principles and contemporary movement philosophies. This module provides valuable opportunities for you to cultivate critical thinking while exploring technical proficiency.
Module 2 (Theoretical)
Design a Dance Program
This lecture series gives you the tools and knowledge to design impactful dance programs for diverse learner groups. You will explore how to set clear expectations for dance programs, manage the varied needs of your students, and ensure that the necessary resources needed for comprehensive learning and assessing are in place. Key topics include safe dance practices, teaching protocols, learning styles and philosophies, and the foundations for effective dance teaching. Strategies for delivering feedback and constructive evaluation will empower you to guide your students toward continuous improvement.
Module 3 (Practical and Theoretical) Dance Pedadogy
Guided by experienced dance teachers, industry specialists, and academic researchers, this module combines practical application with theoretical exploration to equip you with the skills and confidence to excel as a dance educator. Through collaborative workshops, you will explore and critically evaluate relevant teaching methodologies and instructional strategies, challenging conventions and engaging in empirical inquiry. You and your peers will debate, collaborate, and reflect on impactful philosophies and approaches for delivering dance programs, while collectively exploring effective language for guiding efficient movement techniques.
Module Overview
Module
4 (Practical and Theoretical)
Applied Anatomy
Working from a biomechanical perspective ensures that all bodies, regardless of their anatomical structure, can achieve optimal proficiency in dance technique. This inclusive method emphasises that every dancer can succeed by working with their own unique physicality and athleticism. Through understanding how the body moves most efficiently, you will learn how to guide dance students to advance their technique and reduce the risk of injury, leading to greater confidence and longevity in their dance practice. This approach will empower your students to unlock greater freedom of movement and alignment and become self-directed in their progress.
Module 5 (Practical and Theoretical)
Choreographic Practice
This specialised intensive equips dance teachers with a diverse range of tools, techniques, methods, and processes to enhance their dance-making skills and choreographic practice. Guided by influential choreographers and educators, you will develop strategies through creative development activities and improvisation techniques. This workshop and lecture series supports the growth of your artistic voice, providing both inspiration and practical skills to create thoughtful dance phrases for your classes and choreographic projects. It also equips you to bring creative ideas to life and work efficiently under pressure.
Module 6 (Practical and Theoretical)
Self-Compassion & Resilience
As teachers we understand the importance of leading by example. How can we care for others if we don’t first care for ourselves? This module explores the vital role of selfcompassion in building resilience by fostering emotional intelligence and adaptability. Through guided reflection, both practical and theoretical, you will gain tools to maintain a well-balanced life. By broadening our awareness of the connections between mind, thought, and action, and considering how these impact health and happiness, personal and professional success becomes attainable and sustainable. With this mindset, your effectiveness as educators and role models will be enhanced, enabling you to better support the growth and well-being of your students.
Module 7 (Theoretical)
Inclusive Performing Arts Culture
Designed to cultivate a respectful and inclusive culture in both dance teaching and the broader performing arts workplaces, we will explore strategies for fostering an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and supported, regardless of their background, identity, or ability. Key topics include inclusive teaching methods, embracing diversity in the dance studio, and implementing respectful workplace practices. Through discussions, case studies, and practical exercises, participants will gain the tools to build a culture that promotes creativity, collaboration, and mutual respect across all areas of the performing arts industry.
Module 8 (Theoretical)
Safe Spaces for Children & Young People
This module focuses on creating safe, supportive, and nurturing environments for children and young people to thrive in dance and performing arts settings. We will explore best practices for establishing physical and emotional safety, ensuring young learners feel valued, respected, and protected. Key topics include creating a safeguarding policy, building inclusive spaces, setting clear boundaries and fostering positive relationships that promote trust, resilience and well-being. Through discussions and practical strategies, this module equips teachers and leaders with the tools to create environments where children and young people can flourish both artistically and personally.
Module 9 (Theoretical)
Investigating Business Opportunities
This module explores creative business opportunities within the dance and performing arts sector, focusing on sustainable models that balance artistic integrity with financial viability. Together, we will develop entrepreneurial thinking as we research and design business plans aligned with your goals, values, and objectives. Through market research, critical analysis, and strategic planning, you’ll challenge industry assumptions, establish your unique selling point and develop a comprehensive business case.
Meet the Training Team
“Students learn as much from who the teacher is, as they do from what the teacher teaches.”
Linda Gamblin, Head of Training
Link to Bios
Juliette Barton Training Associate
Eugénie English Learning Administrator
Tobiah Booth-Remmers Course Coordinator Pre-Professional Year
Felicity McGee Conditioning Studio Manager
Linda Gamblin Head of Training
Sam Dashwood Head of Open Programs & Learning
Lexy Panetta Learning Associate
Application Process
Sydney Dance Company welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds with a variety of dance training experiences. We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.
Applicants must be at least 17 years of age and demonstrate competency in their chosen dance genre or style, with a curiosity about teaching dance. A foundation in classical or contemporary dance technique is required, as is proficiency in written and spoken English. Support and learning adjustments can be provided as needed to ensure an inclusive learning environment.
Eligibility
• Demonstrated competency in your chosen dance genre or style at a Certificate IV level of dance training or equivalent.
• Australian or New Zealand citizenship, or an appropriate residency visa that allows you to reside and study in Australia for the duration of the program. Sydney Dance Company cannot arrange student visas.
Applications must be submitted online via our website. Applicants are required to include two video links in the online application form, along with a brief description of their dance background and interest in dance teaching.
Preferred Video Submission
• 1 x contemporary dance or ballet technique
• 1 x own choice of style (Sydney Dance Company encourages applicants to include videos of cultural dance styles if relevant to their application).
Inclusivity and Support for Participants
Sydney Dance Company is committed to creating an inclusive environment that supports participants of all abilities. We welcome individuals with disabilities and provide tailored support, including accessible learning spaces, flexible assessment options, technology support and individualised learning plans. By working closely with each participant to address specific needs, we ensure that everyone can fully engage in the program and thrive in their teaching journey.
Link to Apply
