What is CPD?
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is the means by which a teacher furthers their teaching practice through dance-related activities. From attending courses and events to independent learning (such as reading and journaling), continuing professional development can come in many forms.
As a dance teacher in any field of practice, you have a professional responsibility to ensure your skills and knowledge are current and up to date. Taking time to share practice and learn from others not only equips you for your current teaching but also enables you to be inspired and reignite the passion you have for dance. In order to remain safe, professional dance teachers who practice the mark of quality should look to plan CPD on an annual basis. We are here to support your needs and to ensure you are equipped to teach with confidence. Take time to invest in yourself and your learners.
Our CPD courses are open to members and non-members and are a fantastic way to refresh existing knowledge or pick up something new, with which to inspire your students for the term ahead. CPD courses and events cover syllabus from all ISTD genres, as well as non-syllabus content such as mental health, diversity and inclusion, business development and dance science. Our CPD events also offer teachers the opportunity to network and exchange ideas with others from across the world.
In 2021, we offered 382 courses totalling 1000+ hours of CPD, so there really will be something for everyone!
We recommend that all members participate in a minimum of 18 hours of CPD each year.
Why is CPD so important?
Continuing Professional Development has a direct impact on the success of your business, keeping it current and vibrant and assisting your learners in staying creative, motivated and inspired.
Continuing
Whether you have just finished your initial teacher training or you have been teaching for 20 years or more, there is always something new to learn. It is important to stay current and up to date with the latest syllabus changes, as well as changing trends and directions in the dance sector.
When you attend a course, you take the expertise of lecturers and pass it onto your students, who could potentially be our future teachers, examiners, and committee members. It is vital that we continue the cycle of knowledge within the society.
Professional
Dance teachers should maintain a level of professionalism and a high standard in their teaching. It is good practice to ensure you are giving correct relevant information in your classes and keep your work interesting, with references to the dance sector as it stands.
Taking part in CPD shows your dedication as a dance teacher and high-quality training means high-quality teaching - making both teachers and students alike proud to be part of the ISTD.
Development
Refining or updating your knowledge and skillset can only make you a better teacher. Attending courses provides you with the opportunity to refresh your thinking, share individual experiences and work with others in the same industry. You may learn and develop new teaching methods, approaches, and concepts to keep your classes interesting and inclusive.
Whether you want to learn a new genre/syllabus or go back to basics with the finer details of a particular grade, you should keep your brain and body active, challenging yourself as you would challenge your students.
