In response to the declining availability of dance education in British schools, The Royal Ballet School has launched a groundbreaking initiative to rekindle the flame of ballet instruction across the United Kingdom. The Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme (ATAP), introduced in 2022, is breathing new life into the dance education landscape by equipping teachers with the skills to conduct affiliated classes nationwide.
The Royal Ballet School’s ATAP emerges at a critical juncture, with one-third of British schools currently not offering dance instruction despite its inclusion in the national curriculum. This absence of opportunities has led to a troubling trend, with higher education institutions warning of declining dance education courses due to dwindling student numbers.
ATAP serves as a beacon of hope, providing invaluable dance opportunities to children who might otherwise miss out on the joys and benefits of ballet. The program ignites a passion for ballet in young learners and delivers a wealth of physical and mental health advantages.
To amplify the program’s reach and impact, The Royal Ballet School has appointed a high-profile Lead Ambassador for ATAP: the acclaimed Francesca Hayward. As a Principal Dancer of The Royal Ballet and an alumna of the School, Hayward brings star power and authenticity to her role, championing the expansion of dance opportunities for children across the UK.
The Royal Ballet School’s ATAP is designed to extend the institution’s ethos and expertise beyond its walls. The School equips these educators with high-level training and resources by welcoming ballet teachers from across the country to its London studios. This empowerment enables teachers to deliver an outstanding ballet education experience to children in various settings.
ATAP goes beyond mere technique, evolving to meet the changing needs of the ballet art form. Students immerse themselves in a holistic learning experience, exploring ballet repertoire, choreography, and appreciation. This comprehensive approach helps learners contextualize ballet vocabulary and deepen their love for the art form.
The program’s impact on teachers has been transformative. Maddy Jacques, a freelance ballet teacher and examiner, shared her inspiring journey with ATAP. Initially nervous about returning to class, Jacques found herself reinvigorated by the end of the training week. The program rekindled her passion for teaching and provided fresh ideas that have enhanced all areas of her instruction.
Jacques praised the ongoing support provided by The Royal Ballet School, including drop-in clinics and online resources. She highlighted the usefulness of the School’s on-demand platform, which offers a wealth of materials for technical expectations and creative practice inspiration.
The effects of ATAP on students have been equally impressive. Jacques reported that her pupils have enthusiastically responded to the new teaching approach. The program’s versatility allows it to cater to a wide range of students, challenging the confident ones while helping shy students reach their potential.
As The Royal Ballet School continues to pave the way for a new age of ballet training, ATAP is a testament to the institution’s commitment to excellence and accessibility in dance education. By bridging the gap between elite training and community dance classes, the program is democratizing access to high-quality ballet instruction.
The Royal Ballet School’s Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme represents more than just a training initiative; it embodies the transformative power of dance education. As it continues to evolve and expand, ATAP promises to play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of dancers, choreographers, and ballet enthusiasts across the United Kingdom.
In the face of challenges to dance education, The Royal Ballet School’s ATAP shines as a beacon of innovation and hope. By empowering teachers, inspiring students, and championing accessibility, the program ensures……… that the magic of ballet reaches children in every corner of the nation, setting the stage for a vibrant future in dance education.