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Invest in the future of dance teaching

High‑quality dance teaching transforms lives - but too many talented people are held back by financial barriers. Through fundraising and bursaries, the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) ensures that talent, passion and dedication are never limited by circumstance. 


Our fundraising directly supports teacher training bursaries and access‑focused awards, helping the next generation of dance teachers qualify, progress and inspire communities worldwide. 

Donate to support dance teaching

 

Why your support matters 


Aspiring and early‑career dance teachers frequently face challenges such as: 

  • The rising cost of course fees, materials and studio hire 
  • Limited access to local mentors and professional networks
  • Economic, regional or social barriers to professional development 

“I could not have completed my training as smoothly without this support.”

Demand for financial support continues to grow each year. Fundraising allows ISTD to meet this need and protect the future of high‑quality dance education. 

Donate to our bursary fund

 

What your support contributes to 

Funds raised contribute directly to programmes that widen access, encourage progression and sustain teaching excellence. 

Teacher Training Bursaries 

  • Entry level Teacher Training – enabling aspiring teachers to begin their qualifications
  • Higher Teacher Training and CPD – supporting continued professional development and career progression

Donate to our bursary fund

 
 

 Broadening Access to Dance Awards 

Funding community outreach and participation projects that remove barriers to dance education for underrepresented groups.

“This award gave us the confidence to keep going.” 
— Broadening Access project recipient 


Donate to Broadening Access awards

The Sue Passmore Award 

Supporting innovative, early‑career professionals developing projects that broaden engagement and redefine what is possible in dance education. 

“This award has given us wings to fly.” 
— Sue Passmore Award recipient 

Donate to the Sue Passmore Award


To date, over 110 teachers worldwide have accessed essential training and qualifications through ISTD bursaries. 

 

Testimonial

“I am honoured to support this campaign, which creates vital opportunities for aspiring dance teachers. Dance has given me so much throughout my life, and by supporting others to access training and opportunity, we can open doors, bui

Shirley Ballas

ISTD President

 

 

The difference your support makes 


Every contribution - large or small - has a tangible impact: 

  • £15 helps a trainee buy an essential syllabus book 
  • £20 supports travel to in‑person training sessions 
  • £35 contributes to teaching resources or practice materials 
  • £70 supports CPD training, helping teachers continue to upskill 

“Every bit of support means so much.” 


Make a donation


These contributions help trainees qualify, remain in training and deliver high‑quality teaching in their communities. 

 
 

Looking ahead 


With continued support, we aim to: 

  • Increase the number of bursaries awarded each year 
  • Reach more underrepresented communities <
  • Fund innovative teaching and outreach projects globally 
  • Strengthen the future of dance education for generations to come 

“We are making dreams possible in a real way.” 


Support the future of dance teaching 
 
Together, fundraising and bursaries ensure that excellence in dance teaching remains accessible to all.