IDTA (International Dance Teachers’ Association)

The International Dance Teachers’ Association is one of the world’s largest examination boards, covering the full spectrum of dance examinations.

As a leading dance qualifications body and membership association for professional dance teachers, with over 6000 members in over 55 countries, the IDTA define standards across the widest variety of dance forms, examine performance for both professionals and non-professionals of all ages, develop the skills and professional practice for members and promote the love of dance across a dynamic, global community

Pre-Associate

This is the first examination available with an examining bodies and is taken by a student who is training to become a teacher of dancing. It is NOT a qualification to teach dancing. Holders of a Pre-associate must work under the supervision of a qualified teacher if they were permitted to give instruction in a dance school.

Associate

This is the first actual qualification for a teacher of dancing. Teachers who have qualified to this level will often still work under supervision and continue their studies.

Licentiate

For continued professional development candidates may progress to the Licentiate, level examination. This examination can only be taken after a further period of study, the time period being determined by the examination body. This time period must be of sufficient duration to enable the qualifying teacher to have gained the necessary experience and wider knowledge required for the new level.

Fellowship

A further period of study and teaching experience is necessary before teachers can attempt to qualify at Fellowship level. The training for this examination is more intensive and teachers attaining this level are expected to be capable of training other teachers. For those holding the Fellowship qualification there is the possibility of progressing to being appointed an examiner within their teacher organization.