Dance in all forms is a highly specialised activity. Teachers of dance across all genres and levels need to be trained in a range of skills to exemplify best practice, including appropriate technique, teaching methodology, child development, anatomy and injury prevention, as well as physical and mental health and safety.

Dance industry peak body, Ausdance WA, have submitted a proposal to the Western Australian government to develop two traineeships in dance teaching. The goal of the proposal is to improve safety and professionalisation in the sector, and provide rewarding jobs and career pathways in dance teaching in WA. The traineeships are also intended to improve affordability, flexibility and accessibility of training for employers and prospective dance teachers across the state.

Traineeships combine practical experience at work, with knowledge and skills-based education. Upon completion, trainees receive a nationally recognised qualification. Employers of trainees are supported by government through a range of subsidies.

There are 2 proposals being put forward by Ausdance WA:

Proposal 1:

To establish a traineeship in Assistant Dance Teaching (Level 3), aligned to nationally accredited qualification CUA30320 - Certificate III in Assistant Dance Teaching.

Proposal 2:

To establish a traineeship in Dance Teaching and Management (Level 4), aligned to nationally accredited qualification CUA40320 - Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management.

FutureNow is the industry training council for the creative and cultural industries in WA, and is responsible for consulting with industry to determine the level of support for these proposals. You may access FutureNow's privacy policy here.

As we seek to gauge the level of support within the Western Australian dance teaching sector for this proposal, your signature will help demonstrate industry approval and be invaluable in shaping a future where excellence in dance education is realised.