The Future Teachers Programme at NFAD: Progression, Experience and What’s Next

At the New Forest Academy of Dance, we are always looking for ways to support our students not only as dancers, but as confident, capable individuals within our wider community.

Over the past year, our first group of students has taken part in the Embody Future Teachers Programme — developing their skills, supporting younger classes, and gaining a valuable insight into what happens on the other side of the studio. As they now move forward into the next stage of the programme, we are also preparing to welcome a new cohort ready to begin their own journey.

What Is the Future Teachers Programme?

The Future Teachers Programme is a structured, accredited course designed for students aged 13+ who are interested in developing leadership skills and exploring dance teaching alongside their own training.

It combines practical experience with guided learning, allowing students to build confidence gradually in a supportive and familiar environment. Rather than being separate from their dance education, it sits alongside it — deepening their understanding of how classes are taught and how dancers learn.

Learning Through Real Experience

A key part of the programme is weekly assisting within classes. Students spend a short, regular period supporting younger dancers, observing how lessons are delivered and beginning to take on small responsibilities of their own.

This real-world experience is what sets the programme apart. Students are not only learning about teaching — they are actively developing their skills within the studio each week.

Alongside this, in-studio training sessions across the year provide structured guidance, helping students build their understanding step by step.

Progression Beyond the First Year

Our current cohort will soon move into Level 2 of the programme, marking an important progression in their development.

At this stage, students begin to refine their communication skills, develop greater confidence in leading small sections of a class, and take on a more active role in supporting both teachers and younger dancers.

They move beyond observing and assisting, towards understanding how to guide others more independently — building presence, clarity and awareness within the studio environment.

This progression reflects the consistency and commitment they have shown throughout their first year.

Starting Out: What New Students Can Expect

New students joining the programme begin with Level 1, which provides a structured introduction to assisting.

The focus is on building confidence gradually. Students learn how to observe effectively, support younger dancers, and understand how classes are structured, all within a supportive framework.

They are guided closely by NFAD teachers and given the time and space to develop at their own pace. Over the course of the year, small steps build into meaningful progress.

A Programme That Builds More Than Dance Skills

While the programme sits within a dance setting, the skills students gain extend far beyond the studio.

Students develop:

• confidence in communication

• a sense of responsibility

• awareness of others within a group

• the ability to lead and support peers

They also gain CPD-accredited certification at each level, providing a recognised record of their progress and commitment — something that can support future applications, whether within dance or beyond.

A Valued Role Within the NFAD Community

Future Teachers play an important role within the school. They support younger students, help classes run smoothly, and contribute to the positive and welcoming environment that NFAD is known for.

They are also role models. Younger dancers look up to them, and through their consistency, focus and encouragement, they help to shape the culture of the studio.

Applications for the Next Cohort

We will be opening applications for the next cohort in June, with the programme beginning in September.

The programme is open to students aged 13–15 who are interested in developing their skills, taking on new responsibilities and gaining a deeper understanding of dance teaching.

Further information will be shared with the families of eligible students ahead of applications opening.