WEBSITE
www.atod.net.au
HISTORY
Australian Teachers of Dancing (ATOD) was established in 1991, with a vision to inspire and provide innovative education, training and opportunities for the dance industry. The organisation has continued to grow, offering a supportive environment for members who are based throughout Australia and New Zealand, Canada, South East Asia, the UK and Europe. The Registered Training Organisation (RTO 31624) offers a number of accredited qualifications delivered through distance education, auspices with dance organisations Australia-wide.
FOUNDER/DIRECTORS
Leah Belford (President), Cheryl Witchell, Helen Weissenberger, Tracey Jonsson, Karen Malek, Anna Boland, Janelle Smith
STYLES/GENRES
Classical Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Street Beat, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, National Character, Pre-School Ballet, Jazz, Tap.
GRADING/MARKING SYSTEM
ATOD supports dance for all ages and levels range from play dance curriculum for early childhood, through to a comprehensive teacher training program across all genres.
ATOD offers a recognised world-wide examination system and/or assessments for all levels. On successful completion of exams, students receive a comprehensive written report, certificate and medal, together with a mark from Pass through to Honours with Distinction. Early Childhood age students receive an assessment certificate and medal.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO31624), ATOD offers:
- CUA30320 Certificate III in Assistant Dance Teaching
- CUA40320 Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management
- CUA50325 Diploma of Dance Teaching and Management
COMPETITIONS AND AWARDS
State and National Championships and Bursaries are offered annually along with State Competitions
Selina Holdstock
Examiner (domestic and international), Dance Teacher and Studio Owner.
What do you see as the real value of syllabus training and exams for young dancers?
Syllabus training and exams offer young dancers far more than a checklist—they provide a carefully paced roadmap that nurtures safe, confident, and technically sound performers. By introducing skills progressively, students build strength, alignment, and control before attempting advanced movements, protecting growing bodies from injury and burnout. This structured approach fosters consistency and discipline, helping dancers understand the why behind each step, not just the how. It’s the difference between a flashy Jete and a truly brilliant one—those infamous heel-first preparations or finishes are every teacher’s reminder that preparation matters just as much as performance. Through syllabus work, dancers develop muscle memory and foundational technique that supports versatility across styles and choreography. Exams reinforce this learning, offering external feedback, goal setting, and a sense of accomplishment that motivates continued growth. They’re not endpoints, but milestones that celebrate progress and highlight areas for refinement. Ultimately, syllabus training cultivates dancers who are expressive, resilient, and respectful of their craft. It is about building artistry from the ground up, one beautifully placed foot at a time.
In your view, what makes your syllabus distinctive compared to others?
In today’s evolving dance landscape, the Australian Teachers of Dancing (ATOD) syllabus stands out not just for its technical excellence, but for its deep commitment to inclusion, emotional resonance, and student empowerment.
ATOD offers a dynamic framework across genres—designed to nurture dancers from their earliest steps to professional aspirations. But what truly sets it apart is its belief that every dancer deserves to feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
With pathways for diverse abilities and learning styles, it fosters a sense of belonging in every studio.
Our examinations are framed as opportunities—not pressures—led by friendly, professional examiners who champion each dancer’s journey.
In a world where students crave meaning and affirmation, ATOD delivers a syllabus that’s not only technically strong but emotionally intelligent. It’s a system where dancers don’t just learn steps—they discover themselves and their love of dance.