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  5. Licentiate – Classical Indian Dance

At the ISTD Academy we are offering expert Licentiate Classical Indian Dance tutoring with specialist lecturers. There will be online intensive sessions of delivery including exam preparation and additional 1-1 mentoring with a Kathak or Bharatanatyam specialist

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Course Details 

Discover the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Licentiate, a prestigious qualification, offering a clear pathway to becoming a higher-level dance teacher with the ISTD.   


At the ISTD Academy, we offer the Licentiate Classical Indian Dance remotely, tailored to individuals seeking flexible study options with global accessibility. These short courses are perfect for those wanting to become higher-level professional dance teachers.  


Completing the Licentiate Classical Indian Dance examination opens doors to a multitude of opportunities for advancing your teaching career. You'll have the chance to elevate your teaching skills to a higher level, apply to become an ISTD Diploma in Dance Education (DDE) tutor, pursue examiner training, and even apply for recognition as an ISTD Approved Dance Centre (ADC). For those aspiring to further their studies and pursue Fellowship, holding Advanced 2 in Classical Indian Dance is a requirement.  


In our programme, you'll immerse yourself in higher-level dance concepts, exploring advanced teaching methods and strategies to refine your understanding and communication skills. We'll help you expand your analytical abilities and enhance your effectiveness as a teacher. Additionally, you'll refine your artistry, developing a higher level of creativity and musicality. Gain invaluable insights as you acquire practical knowledge, building a teaching toolkit that sets you apart as an educator and advanced practitioner.  

 
 

Course Dates

  • February 2026 – 2 group sessions (exact dates tbc) 

  • May 2026 - 2 group sessions (exact dates tbc)
  • August 2026 - 2 group sessions (exact dates tbc)

Fees 

Includes group sessions and 4 hours of 1-1 mentoring in the standard fee. Additional mentoring packages are available upon request.  

Application with video submission   £60 Deducted from fees for successful candidates   
Standard Fees*  £1295 Payable at enrolment 
TOTAL £1355  

 

ISTD Examination Fee* £410 Payable to ISTD at time of exam booking


*Charges are reviewed annually and therefore subject to change  

Academy Entry Requirements 

  • Advanced 1 certificate in Classical Indian Dance or successful APEL application  
  • In depth knowledge of the current Classical Indian Dance syllabus up to and including Advanced 1  
  • Associate Diploma, Diploma in Dance Education (DDE) or the Diploma in Dance Pedagogy (DDP) qualification in chosen genre 
  • Enhanced DBS Certificate (UK applicants only) 
  • Copies of most recent syllabus books and music from the digital download  
  • Experience of teaching at vocational level  
  • Completed online application form, video submission and interview for course suitability 

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APEL) 
If you do not fulfil the entry requirements for the Licentiate but feel you have the required knowledge or experience, you can apply for APEL to access this qualification via the ISTD directly. The APEL scheme takes account of your professional experience and unregulated qualifications to enable you to potentially by-pass the usual requirements. 

To find out more please visit Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

 
 

Application Process  

Apply now by emailing academyinfo@istdacademy.org or following the online link here
Successful candidates will be required to submit a 1hr recording of their teaching practice and practical demonstration for review. The class must follow a syllabus in Classical Indian Dance at Grade 5 level or higher with a minimum of 4 students.  
Following review, candidates will be invited to either an interview or individual feedback session with a specialist lecturer.  
Questions?  


Got questions or need more information? Email us at academyinfo@istdacademy.org or call our friendly team on 020 7655 8875.