Dance teacher

Career path and progression

In a school you could become a head of department or headteacher.

You might also move into:

• choreography
• dance production
• dance movement psychotherapy
• dance fitness training

As a private dance teacher you could develop your own business and run your own dance school.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of the fine arts
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• the ability to use your initiative
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with others
• leadership skills
• the ability to teach pupils how to do something
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Dance - Dance teachers need expert knowledge of dance styles, techniques, and performance to demonstrate and teach effectively. They maintain their own dance skills, design choreography for individuals and group productions, and assess students for dance exams.
• Physical Education - Dance teachers understand how the body moves, the importance of warming up, and how to develop students' physical fitness and coordination safely. In schools, dance is often taught within the PE department, and many dance teachers combine both subjects.
• Music - Dance teachers work closely with music when planning and teaching sessions, selecting tracks that match the rhythm, tempo, and mood of a piece. Understanding musical structure, timing, and beats is essential for choreographing routines and helping students move in time.

Also relevant

• Drama - Dance teachers often encourage students to express emotion and tell stories through movement, which draws on performance skills similar to those used in drama. In schools, dance is sometimes taught alongside drama and performing arts, and productions often combine both disciplines.
• Biology - Dance teachers benefit from understanding human anatomy, muscles, and how the body responds to exercise. This helps them teach safe technique, prevent injuries, and explain to students how to use their bodies effectively.
• English Language - Dance teachers need strong verbal communication skills to explain techniques, give feedback, and motivate students of different ages and abilities. They also write lesson plans, progress reports, and assessment records as part of their day-to-day work.
• Psychology - Dance teachers need patience and an understanding of how students learn, build confidence, and handle performance pressure. Knowledge of motivation, group dynamics, and child development helps them support students and create a positive learning environment.
• Business - Dance teachers who run their own dance schools or work as private tutors need to manage finances, market their classes, and handle bookings. Understanding how to build and sustain a small business is important for those working outside the school system.