So what exactly is a Dance Artist?

Here at JumpStart, many of the teachers refer to themselves as ‘Dance Artists’.  These are the people who are visiting Primary Schools to deliver high quality experience days, PPA cover and after-school clubs.  But what does the term ‘Dance Artist’ actually mean?

Dance Artists have a wealth of qualifications – usually a dance degree (and/or a masters). As part of their training at university they will have studied dance technique (ballet, contemporary, musical theatre, urban), anatomy, choreography, analysis, dance theory, performance and production.

They may also have some / all of the following teaching qualifications…

• Exercise to Music (ETM)
• Diploma in Dance teaching and Learning (Children and Young People)
• Active IQ: Teaching Physical Activity to children (0-5 years and/or 5-15 years)

Dance Artists are passionate about dance and will therefore be participating in professional dance classes / workshops to maintain their dance knowledge and fitness. They may also have (or still) perform, tour and choreograph with professional dance companies.

They will normally be part of one / some of the following organisations…

• Foundation for Community Dance
• Dance UK
• National Dance Teachers Association (NDTA)
• Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)

Dance Artists are highly trained professionals with a wealth of experience and training and will probably have a particular specialism.  At JumpStart, Emily Peach predominately works in early years settings and nurseries, as well as foundation / reception children.  Tahnee Lawson specialises in Street Dance and more commercial styles and therefore delivers a lot of JumpStart’s after-school clubs.

If you would like a Dance Artist in your school, contact JumpStart [email protected] to find out more about our dance experience days.  Coming soon…Chinese New Year Experience Day.