The Diploma in Dance Education (DDE) Unit 5 course introduces you to Child Development, exploring the physical and cognitive stages that children go through from 2 – 18 years old. Typical and atypical development are considered, helping students gain knowledge that will underpin all aspects of their teaching practice.   

At the ISTD Academy, we offer Units 5 of the DDE as an online, part-time, intensive course. 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.

Unit 5: Child Development 
Duration: April 2026 – June 2026 
 
At the ISTD Academy, you have the flexibility to access individual units of study delivered intensively over 1 term, combining interactive online modules with engaging live lectures and tutorials. 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 5.    
 
The assessment framework ensures student teachers develop practical skills and knowledge essential for entering the teaching profession and building a sustainable career.  

• ISTD Intermediate dance certificate or equivalent in chosen genre  
• Age 17+  
• Some experience of being within a teaching environment or a desire to follow a teaching pathway  
• GSCE English (or equivalent) at Level 4/C or above (or equivalent)  
• Students for whom English is a second language are expected to hold an IELTS at Level 6 

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

Application Deadline: 1st March 2026

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