23 July 2024
Susan Rollo is an ISTD Fellow and Life Member who joined the Society in January 1968 at just 18 years old. At 24, while six months pregnant, she opened her own school. Starting with only four students, Nottingham’s Rollo Academy of Performing Arts is now celebrating its 50th year. The academy takes pride in the success of its former students, many of whom have gone on to professional careers.
Susan Rollo
Teaching approach
When it comes to her teaching philosophy, Susan emphasises the importance of a structured syllabus. She believes that a well-defined curriculum encourages students to continually improve and grow. Adapting exercises and varying teaching methods to cater to individual learning styles is both a challenge and a rewarding experience for her.
To prepare students for examinations, she has found additional exam rehearsals to be highly effective. These sessions help students become familiar with the exam format.
"For new dance teachers, Susan advises keeping up to date with courses and maintaining open communication with peers."
Evolution in teaching
Over the years, Susan has witnessed significant changes in the dance teaching landscape, particularly with the advent of digital technology. The introduction of syllabus videos, music downloads, and Zoom courses has been immensely beneficial. Students recording information on their phones for outside-of-class study has also proven helpful.
However, the rise of social media and digital communication presents new challenges in maintaining students' focus and encouraging emotional engagement.
Student impact
The impact of ISTD examinations on her students is profound. Many of them leave for vocational college with advanced qualifications in modern and tap dance, as well as ballet, often continuing to earn teaching certifications. Former students of the Rollo Academy have gone on to open numerous schools across the East Midlands, with one even reaching as far as Toronto, Canada.
According to Susan, the key benefits of undergoing the examination process include learning discipline, determination, and acceptance. The experience is both physically and mentally rewarding, teaching students the importance of integrity and respect for the art form.
"Watching students improve with each session and receiving positive results, especially from those who have struggled, brings great satisfaction."
Challenges and rewards
Teaching dance comes with its own set of challenges. Susan notes that children's learning capabilities have evolved, necessitating a more individualised approach to choreography and
teaching criteria. Private lessons have become invaluable for students who struggle to focus in group settings. Despite these challenges, the rewards are immense. Watching students improve with each session and receiving positive results, especially from those who have struggle
d, brings great satisfaction. The understanding and recognition shown by examiners towards students who find exam settings tough is particularly gratifying.
Advice and reflections
For new dance teachers, Susan advises keeping up to date with courses and maintaining open communication with peers. Sharing a common goal of nurturing children's growth in dance
is essential. Reflecting on her own journey, she finds little she would change, underscoring the importance of staying current and connected.
Rollo Academy of Performing Arts' 50th Anniversary, with Ex-Students
Future outlook
Looking ahead, Susan envisions dance education continuing to expand globally, potentially integrating more into school and college curricula. Her hopes for the next generation of dance
teachers and students include continued growth and adaptation within the examination board's framework.
