The Royal Ballet School, a bastion of classical ballet training in the United Kingdom, has embarked on an innovative journey to broaden dance education opportunities nationwide. In response to the declining availability of dance classes in British schools, the institution launched its Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme (ATAP) in 2022. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of dance teachers who will bring The Royal Ballet School’s esteemed methodology to various corners of the country.
ATAP serves as a beacon of hope for children who might otherwise miss out on the enriching experience of dance education. By training numerous dance instructors, the program enables the proliferation of affiliated classes throughout the UK, inspiring young minds and nurturing a love for ballet while promoting physical and mental well-being.
The Royal Ballet School’s commitment to expanding its reach has found a powerful advocate in Francesca Hayward, the newly appointed Lead Ambassador for ATAP. As a Principal Dancer of The Royal Ballet and an alumna of the School, Hayward brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role. Her appointment in March 2024 marks a significant step in promoting the program and underscoring the importance of accessible dance education for children nationwide.
The structure of ATAP reflects The Royal Ballet School’s dedication to excellence. The program welcomes ballet teachers from across the country to its London studios, where they receive high-level training and resources from expert tutors. This comprehensive preparation equips these educators to deliver an outstanding ballet education experience to children in their local communities. Upon completing the program, teachers qualify as Affiliate Teachers, empowered to conduct their assessments under the moderation of The Royal Ballet School.
ATAP’s curriculum goes beyond traditional ballet steps and techniques. It immerses students in ballet repertoire, choreography, and appreciation, fostering a deeper understanding and love for the art form. This holistic approach ensures young dancers develop technical skills and gain a rich contextual knowledge of ballet vocabulary.
The impact of ATAP is already evident in the experiences of teachers like Maddy Jacques. As a freelance ballet teacher and examiner, Jacques found renewed inspiration and professional growth through participating in the program. She describes her ATAP training as a transformative experience that reignited her passion for teaching and gave her fresh approaches to engaging her students.
Jacques highlights the ongoing support provided by The Royal Ballet School, including drop-in clinics and continuing professional development days. The School’s online resources, accessible through an on-demand platform, offer additional guidance on technical expectations and creative practices. This comprehensive support system ensures that Affiliate Teachers consistently deliver high-quality instruction aligned with The Royal Ballet School’s standards.
The flexibility of ATAP allows teachers like Jacques to tailor their approach to suit diverse student needs. From confident performers to shy beginners, the program’s versatility enables teachers to nurture well-rounded dancers who understand the connection between their hard work in class and their artistic development.
As The Royal Ballet School continues to expand its Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme, it reaffirms its position as a leader in dance education. By bridging the gap between professional training and recreational dance, ATAP is helping to create a more vibrant and inclusive dance landscape across the United Kingdom. Through this initiative, The Royal Ballet School is shaping the future of ballet education and inspiring a new generation of dancers, teachers, and dance enthusiasts.