Unit 2: Observing, Assisting and Teaching Practice 
Start date: April 2026 
Duration: 6-12 months  
 
At the ISTD Academy, you have the flexibility to access individual units of study delivered part-time. Our one-to-one tutoring for DDE Unit 2 offers a flexible course duration, allowing you to learn at your own pace. Whether you're starting your teacher training journey or building upon existing knowledge, this is the place to explore the DDE qualification and dive into the specifics of Unit 2.    
 
The assessment framework ensures student teachers develop practical skills and knowledge essential for entering the teaching profession and building a sustainable career.  

The  Diploma in Dance Education (DDE) Unit 2 course, Assisting, Observing and Teaching Practice, provides student teachers with the skills and confidence to begin their teaching career. It will guide the learner through an evolving process of lesson observation, assisting and independent teaching practice in order to develop knowledge and application of a range of teaching and learning techniques and evaluation skills. 

At the ISTD Academy, we offer Unit 2 of the DDE as an individual learning experience delivered through one-to-one tutoring. You will also be supported with learning resources through our online learning platform. This non-genre specific unit can be carried over and combined with the syllabus practical units to complete the full DDE qualification.  
 
Achieving all five units of the DDE offers a clear pathway to becoming a qualified dance teacher with the ISTD and incorporates the latest research in dance teaching. 

• Age 18+  
• Some experience of being within a teaching environment or a desire to follow a teaching pathway  
• Applicants must have an excellent standard of English, including the ability to understand spoken and written English and to complete written assignments. This should be at a level equivalent to GCSE English Grade 4/C or above, or IELTS Level 6.
• Applicants must have already completed: 
  • DDE Unit 1: Preparing for Safe Teaching Practice 
  • DDE Unit 3: Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Intermediate (or equivalent) 

 

Apply now via the online application form. Successful candidates will be invited to an interview. 

Application Deadline: Tuesday 31st March 2026 

For more information, please contact academyinfo@istdacademy.org or visit the website.