What is the Amateur Teaching Scheme and who can join it?
The Amateur Teaching Scheme (ATS) is aimed at current Amateur Competitors who wish to teach but still compete in Ballroom, Latin American and Sequence competitions (including Beginner through to International Amateur competitors).
Those who join our ATS will be able to continue to teach under the supervision of their registered ISTD member mentor, you will need to register your ISTD mentor at the same time as joining the scheme.
This scheme is to safeguard both teachers and students. Your mentor will supervise your progression and training towards your assessment, which we encourage to be completed within two years of registering for the ATS.
How will I be assessed?
Your ISTD mentor will monitor your day-to-day teaching and prepare you for your assessment. Your assessment is taken per genre (Ballroom, Latin American and/or Sequence) and will require you to have a knowledge of the ISTD “Student Teacher” Syllabus figures, technique, basic principles and an understanding of the ISTD Medal Test structure. Your ISTD mentor will have access to the syllabus specifications and the technique books required for study can be purchased from the online ISTD Shop.
How do I register?
Follow the link below to get your ATS Student Membership, you will also need the name and current ISTD membership of your ISTD Mentor.
Who can be your ISTD Mentor?
Any active Full Teaching member of the ISTD.
How much does it cost?
Currently, our ATS Student Membership is £26 per year, with a one-off £10 registration fee.
How long can I stay on the ATS?
Once registered on the ATS you are encouraged to take your assessment within your first two years to really assist you to establish a good foundation of knowledge and understanding. If you need more time, please do contact us to discuss this.
What happens once I have passed my assessment?
Once you have passed your Student-Teacher assessment you will then be invited to upgrade your membership to Provisional Membership which will gain you access to more benefits, including CPD courses.
Will I be able to enter students for Medal Test examinations?
No, this must be done through your ISTD mentor. You will only be able to enter pupils yourself once you have turned Professional by taking an Associate or higher level qualification and have become a Full Teaching Member.
Progression Route
- Find an active Full Teaching ISTD Member to be your mentor
- Register for the ATS
- Train for your assessment through your ISTD mentor
- Take your Student-Teacher assessment
- Once successfully passed upgrade to Provisional Membership until you turn Professional and unlock more membership benefits.
Membership Benefits
ATQ Student Membership
- Dance Magazine issued three times a year (subscription worth £25 UK and EU/ International £30)
- Discounts on advertising in Dance magazine and in the classified advertising section of the website
- 5% discount in the Society shop (applied automatically when logged into the member area)
