Teachers
You are a valued member of the teaching staff at Premier School of Dance.
We will have a meeting at the start of each term.
Please refer to your contract for any questions on teaching duties. Thank you.
2025 These are the times we require your attendance for the upcoming performances. If you would like to volunteer your time and stay longer you are always very welcome. Thank you!
DLU / 10th May 11:15am - 2:30pm Bianca 11:00am - 7:45pm Nikki 11:30am - 7:45pm Elyse 11:30am - 6:30pm Tia
Showcase / 18th May
9:00am - 3:00pm Bianca
9:00 am - 3:00pm Nikki
9:00am - 3:00pm Elyse
10:15am - 1:-00pm Tia
10:30am - 12:00pm Jasmine
11:00am - 1:00pm Christina
11:00am - 1:00pm Elissa
12:00pm - 1:45pm Siroun
Evolution / 16th August 7:00am - 10:00am Bianca 7:00am - 11:30am Nikki 7:00am - 11:30am Elyse 7:00am - 11:30am Tia
Evolution / 17th August 7:00am - 2:30pm Nikki 7:00am - 2:30pm Elyse
Troupe Auditions / 14th Sept & 23rd Nov Born 2020 / 2019 - 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM Nikki / Elyse / Jasmine
Born 2018 / 2017 - 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM Nikki / Tia Lunch Break
Born 2016 / 2015 - 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM Nikki / Elyse / Tia
Born 2014 / 2013 - 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM Nikki / Elyse / Tia
Concert / 20th September
7:00am - 8:00pm Bianca
7:00am - 8:00pm Nikki
7:00am - 7:30pm Elyse
7:00am - 7:30pm Sonia
7:00am - 7:30pm Tia
7:00am - 7:30pm Anabella
Mock Exam / 26 October 8:30am - 11:30pm Nikki 11:30pm - 7:00pm Tia
Ballet Exam 12.11.25 8:00am - 4:30pm Tia 13.11.25 8:00am - 4:30pm Tia 14.11.25 8:00am - 1:20pm Tia
Employees must comply with policies, procedures and terms and conditions set out in Premier School of Dance’s Employment Contract.
Employment
You must disclose other places of work relating to dance teaching at the start of your contract and during your employment with Premier. Teaching at other studios or running similar class offerings externally, may be considered a conflict of interest.
Teaching Hours
As a casual employee at a dance studio, the hours worked in a shift can change with short notice. Hours fluctuate regularly
to accommodate studio, student and teacher availability.
- Teaching hours may change from week to week.
- Students and classes may change from week to week.
- Shifts may be less than 3 hours. By signing this contract you understand and agree to be paid only for the hours you
work.
- 15min breaks between classes will be paid.
- An employee must be given an unpaid 30-60min break if working more than 5hrs. If you prefer to work though without
an unpaid break, you will need to email info@premierschoolofdance.com.au to say you prefer to work the hours without a break and agree to be paid at your usual rate.
Loyalty
Students must not be encouraged to attend weekly dance classes anywhere other than at Premier School of Dance.
Parent Correspondence
All written correspondence with Premier clients must be approved by Nikki Abdilla. Premier clients are not to be contacted outside of the studio including on Social Media.
Confidentiality
- Wages are confidential and must not be discussed with any employees at Premier School of Dance or with anyone outside the school.
- You must not, during the course of your employment or thereafter, use or disclose confidential information relating to Premier School of Dance, including but not limited to client details, music selections and choreography.
- All choreography supplied to Premier students whilst on payroll, remains property of Premier students.
Branding
The Premier brand must not be used for any marketing or communication purposes unless approved by Nikki Abdilla.
The logo must not be used by anyone other than by Premier School of Dance. If you require any printed material or communication to parents please contact Nikki Abdilla.
Working with Children Clearance (14yrs and over)
It is required by law that all employees of Premier School of Dance must have a current clearance. The Screening Unit is an
online process. Screening certificate must be forwarded to Nikki Abdilla prior to employment. Clearance is valid for 3 years.
Safe Environments Training - Through Their Eyes Course Renew every 3 years
It is required by law that all employees of Premier School of Dance must have a current Safe Environments Training. See link for training locations to complete Through Their Eyes course.
https://dhs.sa.gov.au/services/community-and-family-services/child-safe-environments/training-safe-environmentsthrough-theireyes/training-providers
First Aid (14yrs and over)
It is required by law that all employees of Premier School of Dance must have a current First Aid training.
- Perform CPR HLTAID001 (renew every 12months)
- Provide First aid HLTAID003 (renew every 3 years)
On the day of First Aid training, wear comfortable clothing as you will be on the floor role playing emergency situations. If
you are under 18 you may ask to have a parent accompany you.
Step 1. Get a Unique Student Identifier (USI) which tracks your Nationally recognised training.
Step 2. Book your course.
Step 3. Complete course.
Step 4. Email a copy of your certificate to Premier School of Dance.
Medical Advice
As a Premier employee, you are employed as a dance teacher, not a medical practitioner. Provide First Aid with in your scope of training. If a student complains of an injury, provide First Aid and ask the student to sit and watch the class and advise them to seek external professional medical advice if necessary. Do not provide medical advice other than basic First Aid.
Accident / Injury in class
1. Determine if it’s an emergency. If so dial 000 immediately.
2. If not an emergency, apply First Aid knowledge. There is a Standard Work Place Fist Aid Kit available in Studio 1
3. Complete an incident form. Parent must sign.
4. Leave form in Studio 1 for Director. Notify Director of incident with text message to 0412123129.
Evacuation
In case of an emergency teachers must make the students safety the highest priority. Remind students to leave all personal
belongings in the studio (teachers should take their phone with them if safe to access). Teachers must assist students to the assembly point in rear car park opposite the parklands. On arrival at the assembly point, dial emergency services on 000 then perform a roll call to check that all the students are present. If there is an injury, teachers must initiate First Aid and complete an incident report and have a witness sign it (preferably someone over 18yrs).
Attitude
You have been selected as a teacher at Premier School of Dance based on your dance ability, personality and technical knowledge. Please be respectful to your employer and the paying students by engaging with the students and showing genuine enthusiasm.
Parent Communication
Parents may wish to speak to you before, during or after class. Please give brief but concise information. If parents take more than 2 mins of your time, politely bring to their attention that you have other classes scheduled but they may contact admin if they have any further questions.
Discipline
You must maintain a disciplined class and be in control of the students at all times. You must never yell directly at a student or embarrass or belittle them. You must use appropriate language.
Conflict Resolution
If you are having difficulty with a student, parent or teacher raise with the Director to help manage this conflict.
Parent Communication
Parents may wish to speak to you before, during or after class. Please give brief but concise information. If parents take more than 2 mins of your time, politely bring to their attention that you have other classes scheduled but they may contact Nikki Abdilla if they have any further questions.
Security
When locking up the studio please remember to ensure the back door and toilet door is locked properly and that the lights and air conditioning are turned off. Please maintain a clean and safe environment in the studio.
PIN Code Studio
All teachers will have access to the building with pin code entry. The pin code is provided with the understanding that the premises are only to be entered when classes are scheduled or otherwise organised with Nikki Abdilla.
Studio Hire
Teachers may enquire with Miss Nikki to hire the studio. The rate is $30 per hour. Teachers must not take classes at the studio without permission.
Please pay into this account:
Nikki Abdilla
065 163
1011 9143
Additional Private Lessons
If you wish to have additional private lessons with your students, please book prior with Admin. They will invoice the student. We do not offer free classes to students. Teachers must not teach Premier students externally, paid or pro bono or take payment directly for classes.
Studio Admission
Only the teacher, student teachers, and enrolled students are permitted in the studio during class. The door must be shut and parents should not enter while the class is in progress. Parents are welcome to watch the trial lesson or during parent watching week, but in following weeks they must wait in the waiting room so they don’t distract the students. The teacher must enforce this politely. Teachers may not bring friends or other dancers/teachers into the class without permission.
Punctuality
You must arrive at least 10 mins prior to your lesson starting time to set up. Ask your students to warm up, stretch, go to the toilet, and be ready for each class. It is important that teachers adhere to the timetable and do not go overtime or cut classes short.
Music
Nikki Abdilla must approve all music selection for performance classes. Once music is finalised please email the edited version so it can add to the studio iPads/Dropbox. CHECK TIME LIMITS CAREFULLY. Refer to student age guide provided by Nikki Abdilla.
Parent Watching Days
Enthusiasm for teaching should be demonstrated in each class but in particular, during parent watching week. The paying parents want to see that their child is learning and the class is orderly. Prior to starting the class explain to the parents that students may be distracted when parents are watching but they usually very well behaved if this is the case. Feel free to discipline students in an appropriate way even when parents are watching.
Concert / Comps / Exams
Teacher attendance may be required for certain classes. Confirm with Director about which events you need to attend. Punctuality is if upmost importance. Enter hours in timesheet under performance attendance.
PIN Entry
Ask Miss Nikki for code to open and close.
Emergency
Call Nikki on 0412123129. If you can't reach Nikki call her husband Matt on 0412598574.
Roll Call
Is a must for all classes.
Text admin on 0410760056 if there is a student not on roll call. Ask for their details before they leave.
Internet
user: premierschool
password: Dance615
iPad
Code is: nikkia
Music is in playlists.
Music
Email Miss Nikki all music to put on Dropbox and iPads.
iPads wil be updated at the start of each term.
ChoreoRoom App
Great app for spacing students in routines and technique classes.
Studio
Please treat with care.
If you see an untidy waiting room or studio please help tidy.
Photos for Social Media
Send weekly photos to Miss Nikki on 0412 123 129.
Be mindful of background and lighting.
Safety
Students must be chaperoned to the toilets.
Ensure students are collected from inside the waiting room.
Students must not cross carpark unsupervised.
Close waiting room door at night when teaching.
Rock Tots
Parents Join in with students.
Work mostly in a circle.
Use blue spots for keeping students in their place.
Play age appropriate music.
Different theme every term. See website.
Ballet, Jazz and coordination movements.
Sing and dance.
Play dance based games.
Keep kids engaged.
Use props.
Give stickers.
Little Stars
Start with tap shoes on.
Teach flex, ballet names and moves, corner work and tap.
Ensure shoes go back into their bags.
Utilise student teachers for shy or unsettled kids.Teach 1x 3min routine for Showcase (no costume).
Teach 1x 4min routine for End of Year Concert (costume).
Concert routine is most important.
Have students in lines.
Most knowledgeable student at front.
Swap lines so every kids gets a chance to be seen at the Showcase and concert.
Give stickers.
Private Lesson
Complete goal and evaluation forms together in the first class with parents.
Push students.
Don't accept lazy efforts.
Build their confidence.
Encourage facial expressions in class.
Invite parents in to film and receive feedback at the end of every class.
Quality over quantity.
Select genres that compliment the dancer.
Aim for placing at comps.
All costume designs must be approved by Miss Nikki.
Do not invite students to do private lessons. This is only offered to select students.
Ballet Exam Classes
Syllabus DVDs are in black cupboard in studio 1 and in draw in studio 3.
Syllabus notes are in folders in draws in studio 1 and 3.
Keep class focused.
Prepare for exams by explaining what will happen on the day.
For classes twice per week discuss with other teacher who is starting with barre and who is starting with centre.
Term 4 barre or centre should be taught
Term 1 barre or centre should be taught
Term 3 polishing technique.
Term 4 run through as mock exams.
Push students to do their best to aim for Honours.
Encourage face in exam.
Spend more time on more difficult exercises and dance.
We can email parents if the dance portion isn't rehearsed enough at home.
Acro
Do a quick but effective warm up 5mins max.
Stretch.
Keep class focused.
Be engaging.
Have a class plan to keep the students busy at all times.
Explain execution and expectations clearly.
Give individual feedback as well as general feedback to the group.
Push for progress.
Don't let a student do a movement that isn't safe if they aren't ready.
Consider safety at all times.
Think about hazards in environment such as ballet barres, walls, shifting matts etc.. ie no swinging on the barres.
Reward students with stickers on charts in week 8 and 9.
Parents are invited to watch last 5mins of each class. Give quick positive feedback and what they need to work on at home. Acro Showcase:
Choreograph a 3.5-4min routine per class with a theme demonstrating a range of acro skills.
Planning Showcase Routines:
Email Miss Nikki music for approval. The music will be uploaded to the OneDrive.
Choreograph routines to include all moves on the progress charts and include any other skills that will enhance the routine. Choreography will also incorporate some easy to master dance movements.
To maximise class time, create the choreography prior to teaching. Only teach the routines once all the choreography has been set and approved by Miss Nikki.
Write choreography in Word as a reference.
Film yourself demonstrating the performances from behind and upload video to the OneDrive for the students to practice to at home.
Skills will be performed on roll out matts only.
Choreography tips:
All kids walk on waving and smiling to audience.
Do cannons (one move after another) to demonstrate skills.
Patterning and Spacing: Stand in lines / make a circle / stand in a grid. We want every kid to shine and be seen.
Kids on stage at all times. Don't have kids run on or off the stage. They may be squatting or posing when another group is demonstrating.
Run on balls of feet. Set running arms (blades for example).
Be conscious of class time! We need to be working on skills for 60% of the class and 40% for choreography. Ask kids to stretch before class.
Students are expected to practice at home with the video.
Set the choreography prior to teaching to maximise class time.
Use ChoreoRoom App to space individuals and set patterning.
Ask for list of confirmed performers from Admin.
End of the show have kids stand in a line and take a bow and wait to receive a certificate. Practice this in class.
Hip Hop
Teach 1x 2-3min routine for Showcase (no costume).
Teach 1x 3min routine (mix at least 2 songs) for End of Year Concert (costume).
Keep class focused.
Keep class engaged.
Explain execution and expectations clearly.
Give technical feedback.
Create a fun interactive environment.
Encourage facial expressons.
IDT
Warm up thoroughly but quickly.
This isn't a stretch class. It's a skill class. Encourage flex to be worked on at home.
Follow videos on Portal.
You may deviate but must cover turns, leaps, kicks.
Wok on strengthening exercises and preparations.
If classes are large work out the best way to maximise time.
Create an encouraging, fun interactive class.
Give technical feedback.
Ask Miss Nikki for log in to IDT and Dance Labs Portal.
PBT
Warm up.
This isn't a stretch class. It's a skill class. Encourage flex to be worked on at home.
Follow videos on Portal.
You may deviate but must cover the majority of the syllabus.
Wok on strengthening exercises and alignment.
Create an encouraging, fun interactive class.
Give technical feedback.
Ask Miss Nikki for log in to PBT Portal.
Troupe (Elite)
Teach 2x 4min routines per year for comps and End of Year Concert (costume).
Troupe may perform routines over 2 years. Run old routines at the start of class.
Genres are classical, character, broadway, jazz, S&D, lyrical and contemporary.
Work quickly. You will be surprised how quickly 1 year goes.
Give technical feedback.
Vary patterning.
Focus on spacing and straight lines.
Focus on performance skills.
We have assessments be strict on who will be allowed to perform. Students selected to perform at comps must fit the criteria. The standard at comps is extremely high. We want to be competitive.
Forward Assessment selections to Miss Nikki who will pass on feedback to parents.
Build camaraderie between students.
Run music selections and ideas past Miss Nikki.
Troupe (Recreational)
Teach 1x 3min routine for Showcase (no costume).
Teach 1x 3min routine (mix at least 2 songs) for End of Year Concert (costumes).
Genres are broadway, jazz, lyrical and contemporary.
Work quickly. You will be surprised how quickly 1 year goes.
Give technical feedback.
Vary patterning.
Focus on spacing and straight lines.
Focus on performance skills.
Choreography must be achievable for beginners but look effective.
Build camaraderie between students.
Run music selections and ideas past Miss Nikki.
Hello teachers,
I look forward to meeting with you every term to touch base on how you are going as a teacher, and how your classes are progressing. I would also love to hear any feedback or suggestions on how we can improve Premier School of Dance, and your classes. Thank you for your hard work and passion!
Log Meeting Hours in Xero under non-teaching duties.
Thank you for your time and passion. I wish you all the very best for the next term!
If an emergency call 000
If not an emergency, apply First Aid.
Call Nikki on 0412123129 if unsure how to manage a situation.
Only give medical advice in the scope of your First Aid Training.
Notify parent to sign form at the end of class.
Please complete each term for each student teacher. Please express gratitude for your student teacher's time and effort. Be honest with feedback chart. Take a photo of them with the completed printed certificate and send to Miss Nikki. Thank you.
Please complete the form for all your ballet students except if you share a class with Miss Nikki. In this case you don't need to complete a form, Miss Nikki will complete.
Tip: We understand that completing these forms can be time-consuming. If you feel you can't complete during class you're welcome to record the class (barre and centre) to reference later. Thank you!
Teachers, click this link to start a goal setting form to complete with your student and parent/s.
Private lessons are for hand selected students who want to develop their dance skills to a high level and possibly pursue a career in dance. Our solo teachers are very invested in our students.
Each student is on their own dance journey. We believe in a growth mindset, setting goals, and putting in the work to achieve those goals.
We have created a form to complete at the start of each term to touch base with parents and students to set goals and discuss progress. We use this goal setting to have a mutual understanding of how to assist each soloist to reach their full potential. We want to identify strengths and weaknesses to then plan how to best support your performer.
This will only take a few minutes, but we feel this will be beneficial. At the end of the term, we can evaluate and access the progress.
We are here to develop and support your dancer to grow in skills and confidence.
See IDT course for rigorous warm ups as well as strengthening and flexibility exercises.
Make the exercises more challenging for advanced students.
Encourage students to cheer each other on.
Film and photograph for reels and posts.
8&U – First Year
T4
Pirouettes: Singles / Chaines
Legs: Leg Mount front & side/ Bow n arrow
Leaps: Jetes
Floor: Cradle / Floor tilt / Flare
T1
Pirouettes: Singles / Chaines
Legs: Leg Mount front & side/ Bow n arrow / Kicks from corner Leaps: Jetes Floor: Floor tilt / Flare
T2
Pirouettes: Singles / Chaines
Legs: Leg Mount front & side / Bow n arrow / Kicks from corner / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Jetes / Firebirds Floor: Floor tilt / Flare
T3
Pirouettes: Singles / Chaines / Pose turns
Legs: Leg Mount front & side/ Bow n arrow / Kicks from corner / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Jetes / Firebirds Floor: Floor tilt / Flare
8&U – Second Year
T4
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines
Legs: Leg Mount front & side / Bow n arrow / Scorpion to needle
Leaps: Jetes / Straddle / Firebirds
Floor: Cradle / Floor tilt / Flare
T1
Pirouettes: Singles / Chaines
Legs: Bow n Arrow / Kicks from corner / Pencil Leg hold / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Jetes / Straddle / Firebirds Floor: Floor tilt / Flare
T2
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines
Legs: Bow n Arrow / Kicks from corner / Pencil Leg hold / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Jetes / Straddle / Side leap / Firebirds Floor: Floor tilt / Flare
T3
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Pose Turns
Legs: Leg Mount front & side / Bow n arrow / Scorpion to needle / Tilt Leaps: Jetes / Straddle / Side leap / Illusion / Firebirds Floor: Floor tilt / Flare
See IDT course for rigorous warm ups as well as strengthening and flexibility exercises.
Make the exercises more challenging for advanced students.
Encourage students to cheer each other on.
Film and photograph for reels and posts.
10&U – First Year
T4
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Pose turns
Legs: Tilts / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Tilt Jumps / Straddle / Side leap / Firebirds Floor: 6 O’clock / Shoulder roll / Flare
T1
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Pose turns / Fouettes
Legs: Tilts / Fan Kicks / Standing to floor tilt Leaps: Tilt Jumps / Straddle / Side leap / Firebirds Floor: 6 O’clock / Shoulder roll / Toe Rolls / Flare
T2
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Pose turns / Fouettes
Legs: Tilts / Standing to floor tilt / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Tilt Jumps / Straddle / Side leap / Russians Floor: 6 O’clock / Shoulder roll / Toe Rolls / Flare
T3
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Fouettes
Legs: Pencil leg hold Leaps: Firebird / Straddle / Side leap / Firebirds / Russians Floor: Toe Rolls / Butterfly / Flare
10&U – Second Year
T4
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Fouettes
Legs: Tilts / Standing to floor tilt / Layout Leaps: Tilt Jumps / Straddle / Side leap / Firebirds / Russians Floor: Butterfly / Flare
T1
Pirouettes: Doubles / Fouettes
Legs: Tilts / Standing to floor tilt / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Tilt Jumps / Straddle / Side leap / Firebirds / Russians Floor: Butterfly / Flare
T2
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Fouettes
Legs: Tilts / Standing to floor tilt Leaps: Attitude leaps / Firebirds / Russians Floor: Butterfly / Flare
T3
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Fouettes
Legs: Pencil leg hold / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Straddle / Side leap / Firebirds / Russians Floor: Butterfly / Flare
See IDT course for rigorous warm ups as well as strengthening and flexibility exercises.
Make the exercises more challenging for advanced students.
Encourage students to cheer each other on.
Film and photograph for reels and posts.
T4
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Fouettes
Legs: Standing to floor tilt / Layout Leaps: Tilt Jumps / Straddle / Side leap Floor: Butterfly
T1
Pirouettes: Doubles / Fouettes / Pencil leg hold turns
Legs: Pencil leg hold / Scorpion to needle Leaps: Straddle / Side leap / Axel Floor: Flare (Rainbow Jump)
T2
Pirouettes: Doubles / Chaines / Fouettes / Pencil leg hold turns
Legs: Pencil leg hold / Penche circle tilt / Scorpion to needle Leaps: C Jump Floor: Flare (Rainbow Jump)
T3
Pirouettes: Doubles / Fouettes / Pencil leg hold turns
Legs: Pencil leg hold Leaps: Straddle / Side leap / Scissor Russian Floor: Flare (Rainbow Jump)
12&U – Second Year
T4
Pirouettes: Triples / Chaines / Fouettes
Legs: Standing to floor tilt / Layout Leaps: Tilt Jumps / Straddle / Side leap / Scissor Russian Floor: Butterfly
T1
Pirouettes: Triples / Chaines / Fouettes / Pencil leg hold turns
Legs: Surprise turning tilt Leaps: Straddle / Side leap / Axel Floor: Flare (Rainbow Jump)
T2
Pirouettes: Triples / Chaines / Fouettes / Pencil leg hold turns
Legs: Surprise turning tilt Leaps: Straddle / Side leap / Axel / C Jump / Scissor Russian Floor: Flare / Butterfly
T3
Pirouettes: Triples / Fouettes / Pencil leg hold turns
Legs: Pencil leg hold Leaps: Straddle / Side leap / Tuck Russian Floor: Flare (Rainbow Jump)
See IDT course for rigorous warm ups as well as strengthening and flexibility exercises.
See exercises, and combos on IDT website. Set combos of your own.
Make the exercises more challenging for advanced students.
Encourage students to cheer each other on.
Film and photograph for reels and posts.
Warm Up:
Intensive cardio
Core Training:
Intensive core
Upper body:
Intensive strengthening
Pirouettes:
Single / Double / Tripple / Pull down turns / Fouettes / Pencil leg hold turn / Chaines / Scorpion turn / Turn land in second split / A la second turns
Legs:
Cnr kicks / Fan Kicks / Tilts / Layout / Pencil Leg hold / Illusion / Standing to floor tilt / Penche circle tilt / Surprise turning tilt / Pistol squats
Leaps:
Jete / Scissor Russian / Tuck Russian / Firebird / Attitude leaps / Straddle / Side leap / Axel / Tilt jump / Turning switch tilt / C jump
Floor:
6 O’clock / Shoulder roll / Toe rolls / Butterfly / Flare
Our goal is to have every trial student enrol permanently. We want trial students have an exceptional experience. The biggest factor determining if a child will enrol at Premier is if the child felt confident and connected with the teacher.
Check Roll Call
Check roll call before class for any trial students. Open the door and look for the new parent and say “Hi, this must be XXXX. Welcome”.
Warm Greeting
Give the student a compliment like your “hair looks great” if in a bun, or “come on in and let’s do some fun dancing”. Make an appropriate comment for their age to make them feel confident and welcome.
Invite the parent to watch the trial and indicate where to sit. Ask the parent if this is their first class. This can give you some information and ‘break the ice’. If it’s their first class, then you can say “that’s exciting. We are going to have lots of fun today”.
Uniform
Trial students don’t require the uniform. Younger children can feel out of place if they don’t have the same unform as everyone else. If you see a child looks uncomfortable about what they’re wearing, say “if you love ballet, mum can get you the special black leotard and shoes”. Remind them its ok they don’t have the same uniform as everyone else today.
They may not have tap shoes for first class. Tell them that’s ok and they can wear socks or casual shoes for the first class.
Buddy Up
Ask the class ”who wants to be XXX’s buddy today” Usually lots of kids will put their hand up. Chose a condiment responsible child.
Positioning
Place the child at the barre or in the centre where the parent can see them. Place the child where they can see the teacher. Give them lots of support and some extra attention for their firt class. Give them encouraging feedback. We want to build confidence.
End of Class
Finish class 2-3mins early. Have the kids line up and wait while you have a brief chat to the parent/parents.
Most kids do well. Here are some things you might want to say:
“she/he did really well. She/he will make a strong dancer”.
“for the first class she did well and her technique will develop over time”.
If a child is having difficulty concentrating or you feel will impede the class, then let the parent know you will have a chant to admin about the best class for her/him.
Or you may want to recommend the recreational class over the competition class. It’s best if and handles this. Please send a text to admin with your recommendations.
Taking Control:
A teacher must always have control of a class. This means the students are engaged, listening, and following instructions.
Start of Class
Setting the mood of the class is of upmost importance. Start the class with big energy and a sense of urgency. Once the class is running well you can have a moment to connect and bond. If the kids are running amock and the environment is slack and slow to start, the students will think it's playtime and it is very difficult to change this energy.
Expectations of Behaviour
Students need to be told expectations before the class starts. You can say things like “No swinging in the barres”. “When you hear me double clap that means stop talking and look at me”. “When you go to the ballet barre, don’t touch the barre. Stand ready in bras bas”. Give specific instructions instead of using general terms such as ‘behave’.
Knowing Names
Knowing names of the students will help you gain control.
Being Commanding
A teacher must use a loud voice to command a class. This is different to shouting. Do not lose your temper in class. Do not belittle or mock or yell in anger at a student. However, you can be firm and say something like. “XXXX I have told you already not to run around. This is your final warning, or you will need to sit down, and I will need to speak to your parents”.
Talk to the students about respect and that you are there to support them but they must respect you a the other students and listen to instructions.
If your teaching is engaging and you are showing genuine enthusiasm, this shouldn’t happen in the first place unless the child has a behavioural disability.
Showing Enthusiasm
Show enthusiasm and be expressive. This will capture the children’s attention and inspire them to learn. You can say “We are going to lean something very special today. It’s super exciting”. Building excitement will help with engagement.
Positive Reinforcement
At premier we use Positive reinforcement instead of fear-based teaching. You can say things like “XXXX is standing nicely ready to start. So is XXX. So is XXX”. To set examples of good behaviour. Or “Who can do this?”.
Set a technical challenge so the students re motivated to impress the teacher.
Rewards
Rewards students with words of encouragement during class. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour.
Some teachers may organise their own gold star charts with a reward at the end of term for the student with the best listening skills. Perhaps there is a reward. Think of creative ways to motivate.
Respect
Build a relationship with your students by asking them some personal questions or shedding some light on who you are as an individual. This will build your relationship with your students, and you will gain respect and engagement.
Psychology
Each child is unique and will respond differently to different types of communication. For one student you may only need to remind them to listen, for another you may need to use a firm stern voice. Pay attention to their state of mind to work out the best way to engage with that student. Your approach may change depending on their mood. A harsh demeanour may break trust with one students but work well for another.
Disruptive Student
If your attention is disproportionality given to one or more students because of their disruptive behaviour, this needs to be addressed. Speak with the Director who will then speak with the parents which will result in either changed behaviour or removal from class.
Child refuses to participate
This can be frustrating. But you need to consider the child’s perspective. They may withdraw because they are having an emotional meltdown. Ask what is wrong. If they refuse to speak, remove them from the class and ask them in the waiting room or somewhere private so they feel comfortable opening up. If they still won’t reveal the problem, ask if they need a hug. This can help them feel cared for. Usually taking their hand and saying, “come with me we can dance together” is enough to bring them back to dance. If they flat out refuse to participate, let them sit out and check in with them from time to time. Let the parent know they refused to join in.
Solos are offered to a select few. Notify Miss Nikki if you have a potential soloist who has qualities listed below. Miss Nikki will determine if the students will be selected or not. If they are selected, please encourage the parent to commence solos. Please do not speak to a parent about starting solos until confirmed by Miss Nikki. A timeslot will be allocated based on parent availability and the timetable.
Soloist Qualities: - Flexibility
- Strong arch in pointed feet
- High technical standard
- Great performance skills
- Quick learner
You can find information here about options for costumes. Buy online, source second hand, or have them tailor made.
When engaging a dressmaker consider the following:
All designs must be approved by Miss Nikki.
Make costume age appropriate.
Think what will POP on stage.
Dare to be different. use elements of a theme to create something new.
Sketch the final design in detail using the template below.
Use references from actual photos.
Colour the sketch to be clear on what fabrics are used where.
Does the fabric needs to be 1 way, 2 way or non stretch.
What is the style of costume. Velvet suggests luxury vs plain lycra.
Discuss fabric QTYs with the dressmaker. Note. Fabric comes in different lengths.
Most skirts will be waist high. This elongates the leg line.
a full circle skirt flows nicely when turning.
Determine how the costume will be put on... Zip, open back etc...
Does the costume need matching knickers?
Does the costume require gems? Parents can learn to do themselves. If they prefer someone else to do it, ask Miss Nikki we can source someone who will charge a fee.
Does the costume require accessories for the hair, hat, gloves, jewellery etc..
If you have any question please ask Miss Nikki.
- Let Admin know you can't teach and to cancel solos.
- Admin will notify the parent and apply a credit to their account. Option 1: Teachers to organise a make-up time with parents and let Admin know the date and time to book into DanceBiz. The class will entered on the app so you can mark the roll. A new invoice will be created and any credits in the system will be applied.
Option 2: No make up class. The credit will be applied to any new invoice generated.
Example email to Admin for make up dates:
Jane Smith 18.08.22 10:00 - 11:00 (cancelled class 12.08.22) Charlotte James 18.08.22 11:00 - 11:30 (cancelled class 12.08.22)
Teachers booking studio hire
Running and maintaining a studio is costly. Teachers are welcome to hire the Premier studios if the class type is approved by the Director. There is a small hire fee. All hires must be booked through Admin.
Purpose for hire
Hire needs to be pre approved by Director. Teachers are trusted with access to the studio. Accessing the studio without Premier's knowledge is strictly prohibited and may result in dismissal.
Hire may not be approved if a Premier teacher is planning to hold a class that conflicts with existing class offerings at Premier.
Private lessons booked with Premier students, arranged without Premier's knowledge is strictly prohibited and may result in dismissal.
Booking hire
Admin must be notified prior to 12pm on the day of the hire at the very latest. Hire fees must be paid by due date.
$15 30min
$25 60min
Please treat equipment and studio with respect and tidy after use. Thank you.
Zoom Log In Details
Studio 1: info@premierschoolofdance.com.au Password: Dance2000#
Studio 1 ID: 545 927 1216
Studio 2: premierschoolofdance2@gmail.com Password: Dance2000#
Studio 2 ID: 390 825 6671
Studio 3: premierschoolofdance3@gmail.com Password: Dance2000# Studio 3 ID: 604 529 3983
Studio Internet Password
User: premierschool Password: Dance615
Start a Meeting
Use the website instead of the app
Sign In using log in details above
Check what studio you are logged into (as per timetable).
Host a meeting with video on.
Join with computer audio
Click on participants
Admit students.
Sign Out
Click on Zoom logo for home page
My account
Click person icon
Sign Out
Teaching Online
Just because you can’t see a parent, doesn’t mean they are not watching the class. Parents will judge your teaching skills based on what they see online as they aren’t usually allowed to watch a class. Don’t look at your phone during class. Be at your best at all times.
You can work from home if you prefer or simply come to the studio.
If you work from home, you are not covered by insurance. You will teach at your own risk. please ensure good lighting and a safe work environment, and a strong internet connection.
Test Zoom prior to your first lesson to familiarise yourself with the layout.
Laptop is preferrable to phone. You can angle the screen to fit yourself in better. And the size of the screen is an advantage in seeing more students.
Roll Call is important. If anyone is not on the list, they haven’t paid for classes. Please inform Emily.
Finish prior class 2 mins before end of lesson to admit new class on time.
There is a waiting room for student’s safety. You need to admit students.
Ask students to mute microphones on their end. Unmute when asking a question.
Screen is mirrored. If demonstrating movements facing front, reverse choreography or demonstrate moves facing your back to the screen.
Online teaching is more challenging than teaching in person.
Show additional enthusiasm to keep students engaged.
Use good communication skills.
Acknowledge each student. Individual corrections are important for the students to improve and feel engaged/valued.
While we are focusing on one student, give the other students set tasks so they don’t lose concentration.
Continue to add choreography, teach syllabus exercises so that when we are back in the studio the students have progressed.
Suggestion: Do a Theory classes for ballet, tap and jazz classes.