Registration open!
Book Day 1
Book Day 2
About this event
These interactive online sessions are designed to support and inspire Classical Indian Dance teachers, particularly those teaching Kathak and Bharatanatyam, at every stage of their teaching journey. Each session includes opportunities for discussion, participant interaction and a live Q&A with the tutors.
The courses are designed as stand-alone events, giving you the flexibility to attend either session independently or join both for a more comprehensive professional development experience.
Led by Sujata Banerjee MBE alongside specialist guest tutors, the two sessions will explore effective teaching methods, the technique of giving movement corrections, and the important distinction between teaching and training.
As the ISTD offers examinations in Kathak and Bharatanatyam, the second session will focus on the syllabi, with particular attention to the vocational grades and the standards expected at Licentiate level.
Why attend?
By attending, you will:
- Develop practical teaching skills that can be applied immediately in the studio.
- Gain insight into effective teaching approaches for Classical Indian Dance.
- Deepen your understanding of movement correction and teacher training methodologies.
- Gain a clearer understanding of how the ISTD Classical Indian Dance syllabi progress from grade to grade, including the vocational pathway.
- Build confidence in working towards ISTD Licentiate status.
- Receive valuable preparation for the ISTD Academy Licentiate Course commencing in February 2027.
Attend one session or join both to gain a comprehensive introduction to Licentiate preparation and teaching excellence in Classical Indian Dance.
Part 1
Understanding the ISTD Syllabus Structure and Licentiate Expectations
Whether you are considering the Licentiate qualification in Kathak or Bharatanatyam or simply want to strengthen your teaching practice, this interactive session will provide an overview of the teaching skills and professional expectations of an ISTD Classical Indian Dance teacher.
Ideal for teachers looking to develop their knowledge, confidence and understanding of teaching practice and ISTD syllabus progression.
Rather than examining individual syllabus exercises or content in detail, the session will explore how the syllabus develops across the grades, key teaching considerations at different stages of learner progression, and the broader knowledge required for successful Licentiate study.
The session will also cover teaching approaches, lesson planning, observation and evaluation skills, and the expectations of the Licentiate qualification. A live Q&A at the end of the session will provide an opportunity for participants to ask specific questions relating to syllabus content, teaching practice, or future Licentiate study.
What You Will Learn
- Gain a clear understanding of the ISTD Licentiate examination
- How learning develops from grade to grade, including within the vocational pathway
- Effective teaching methods and strategies for Classical Indian Dance
- How to observe, analyse and evaluate teaching practice
- Key considerations when teaching vocational grade students
- Answers to specific syllabus and teaching questions during the live Q&A session
Please note: This session focuses on understanding the structure, progression and teaching considerations of the ISTD syllabi, rather than learning individual exercises or studying syllabus content in detail. Specific questions relating to syllabus exercises or content may be raised during the live Q&A session at the end of the course.
Monday 14 December 15:00 - 17:00
Lecturer: Sujata Banerjee MBE and guest tutor
Cost: £40.00
Part 2
Biomechanics and Effective Corrections for Classical Indian Dance Teachers
Develop your understanding of biomechanics and learn how to provide safe, effective and meaningful corrections that support student progression.
This practical and informative session explores the principles of movement, alignment and physical development within Classical Indian Dance. Participants will gain a greater understanding of how movement functions within the body and how this knowledge can be applied to improve teaching, enhance student learning and support safe technical development.
Led by Sujata Banerjee MBE alongside a specialist guest tutor, the session includes opportunities for discussion, participant interaction and a dedicated live Q&A, allowing attendees to seek advice on their own teaching scenarios and challenges.
What You Will Learn
- Fundamental biomechanical principles relevant to dance teaching
- How to observe movement and identify areas for improvement
- Effective approaches to providing corrections
- Understanding adolescent physical development and growth spurts
- Strategies to support safe technical development
- How biomechanical knowledge can enhance teaching and learning
- Practical applications for both Kathak and Bharatanatyam teaching
- Answers to your individual questions during the live Q&A session
Ideal for teachers who want to increase their confidence when observing, analysing and correcting movement in the studio.
Tuesday 15 December 15:00 - 17:00
Lecturer: Sujata Banerjee MBE and guest tutor
Cost: £40.00
Register now to:
- Receive expert guidance from experienced specialists.
- Gain valuable insight into the ISTD Classical Indian Dance syllabi.
- Refresh and deepen your professional knowledge.
- Access high-quality training from anywhere in the world.
Online – accessible worldwide
Minimum number of participants required – book your place early to avoid disappointment.
Deadline: 6th December 2026
Ideal preparation for students wanting to join the Academy’s Licentiate Classical Indian Dance course in February 2027.
To register for this event, please pay here:
Book Day 1, Monday 14 December
Book Day 2, Tuesday 15 December
If you are unable to attend the events live, you can also purchase a copy of the recording. To request this option, please make a note on the booking form that you would like a copy of the recording.
Pricing and more information
Price: £40.00
Times and Dates: 14-15 December 2026
Please note that all dates and times are in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
| Date | Time | Course |
| Monday 14 December | 15:00-17:00 | Understanding the ISTD Syllabus Structure and Licentiate Expectations |
| Tuesday 15 December | 15:00-17:00 | Biomechanics and Effective Corrections for Classical Indian Dance Teachers |
Further Questions:
For more information, please email academyinfo@istdacademy.org
Book your place today and take the next step in your teaching journey.
