Page 9 - DANCE Guide 2022

Leah Belford
President and Examiner, ATOD.
What do you enjoy about your job?
My job as an examiner is so varied and always exciting. However, what I love most about it are the people we meet and the children we get to see. We get to witness their sense of achievement as they complete their exams and the joy on their faces.
In addition, it is always so rewarding to meet new members and revisit old members and to work with colleagues who are so experienced and willing to share their knowledge. This instils a fabulous standard and experience within our dance community.
Prior to COVID, and hopefully in the not too distant future, I also enjoy the travel to different parts of Australia and overseas and the constant learning that I undertake.
What is the purpose of exams/ assessments and why do you think they are beneficial?
I find that many students enjoy the sense of purpose of exams, and pride themselves on their ability to practice, enter exams, be tested and achieve. They are motivated
and encouraged to learn more and, regardless of their level of ability or age, to enjoy a sense of accomplishment. In addition, the exam process builds self-confidence, resilience and acknowledges achievement.
What drew you to this syllabi/ organisation?
ATOD is run by the most beautiful team of people. Our purpose is to make every experience a delightful one and to ensure that our members are treated with care and respect. I believe that we offer everything as an organisation. We are
a “one stop shop” for our members – including membership support and professional development, Systems of Training, our examination process and as a Registered Training Organisation. As
a member of ATOD, I don’t need to seek the requirements to run my business anywhere else. We encourage dancers, inspire individuals and connect communities. ATOD is a place where dreams come together and are supported.
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 and VET/VCE Dance.
DIRECTORS:
Leah Belford (President), Cheryl Witchell, Tracey Jonsson, Janelle Smith, Penny Butler, Anna Boland, Helen Weissenberger and Bonnie Muir. CEO: Michael Timbrell
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
• CUA50320 Diploma of Dance Teaching
• CUA40520CertificateIVinMusicalTheatre
COMPETITIONS AND AWARDS:
Scholarships and bursaries with competitions held throughout Australia.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022 | WWW.DANCEAUSTRALIA.COM.AU | 59
AUSTRALIAN TEACHERS OF DANCING (ATOD)