The Royal Ballet School’s Affiliate Training Programme Expands Access to Ballet Education
The Royal Ballet School’s Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme (ATAP) has been making significant strides in widening access to professional ballet training. Launched in 2022, ATAP allows recreational dance teachers to deliver training aligned with the Royal Ballet School’s standards, regardless of their geographical location. The programme equips teachers with the skills to instruct beyond just ballet technique, covering repertoire, choreography, and appreciation of the art form. By enabling teachers to integrate these elements into their lessons, ATAP aims to cultivate a deeper love for ballet among students worldwide.
ATAP’s approach is unique in that it does not require teachers to follow a rigid syllabus. Instead, it focuses on four key areas: ballet vocabulary, repertoire, creative practice, and body awareness. This flexibility allows teachers to adapt their lessons based on the specific needs and abilities of their students. By emphasizing how to teach rather than just what to teach, ATAP ensures that students not only acquire technical skills but also develop a genuine passion for ballet. This method has been particularly successful in engaging young dancers who might otherwise find traditional training approaches too restrictive.
Since its inception, ATAP has seen rapid growth, with 46 teachers gaining Affiliate status and 29 currently in training. These teachers represent 12 countries, highlighting the programme’s international appeal. In 2024, ATAP’s reach was further expanded with the appointment of Francesca Hayward, a Principal of The Royal Ballet, as its Lead Ambassador. Hayward’s involvement brings a wealth of experience and a recognizable face to the programme, helping to promote the benefits of a holistic dance education to a broader audience. Her advocacy focuses on encouraging young dancers to pursue ballet as a long-term passion, not just a technical skill.
In addition to Hayward’s role, ATAP has partnered with the Frederick Ashton Foundation to incorporate Ashton’s renowned choreography into its training. This collaboration allows students to learn and perform pieces such as The Dream and Les Patineurs, which are adapted to suit young dancers in their formative years. The partnership also provides ATAP teachers with access to extensive teaching resources, including videos of solos and coaching sessions. This blend of historical repertoire and contemporary teaching resources enhances the depth and quality of training that ATAP offers.
ATAP’s success also lies in its commitment to continuous professional development for teachers. Affiliate teachers participate in professional development sessions three times a year, covering topics such as pedagogy, assessment support, and business management. This focus on ongoing learning ensures that teachers are well-equipped to provide high-quality instruction and adapt to the evolving landscape of ballet education. Additionally, ATAP teachers gain access to an online library of resources, including videos, lesson plans, and creative practice examples. This digital approach allows teachers to continue improving their skills and expanding their instructional methods.
Beyond technical training, ATAP emphasizes the importance of a supportive teaching network. Teachers can connect with one another through online forums and attend in-person enrichment workshops led by the Royal Ballet School’s Artistic staff. This sense of community is invaluable in what can often be an isolating profession. By creating a platform where teachers can exchange ideas and support each other, ATAP reinforces a collaborative approach to ballet education.
The growth and impact of ATAP highlight a broader commitment to democratizing access to high-calibre ballet training. By empowering local dance teachers with the tools and resources to teach to professional standards, the Royal Ballet School is helping to raise the quality of ballet instruction globally. As ATAP continues to expand, its model of combining flexible training, professional development, and community support may well set a new standard for ballet education worldwide.