Every dancer remembers the teacher who changed everything – the one who saw potential before we could see it ourselves. But what happens when talented dancers and dedicated teachers lack access to the qualifications, development, or resources they need to flourish? 

For years, the ISTD’s bursary programmes have quietly been changing that story. Now, with demand rising and financial barriers affecting more teachers across the globe, the Society has launched a renewed fundraising campaign to protect and expand these life‑changing opportunities. 

This article takes you through the journey of these bursaries – what they fund, why they matter, and the impact they’re already having on teachers and communities worldwide. More importantly, it’s an invitation: to support the campaign, to spread the word, and perhaps even to apply yourself. 

Few stories capture the emotional impact of ISTD bursaries as powerfully as the work happening in Nigeria. 

Ayomi Tsalu is using his award to bring ISTD examinations to children in Awka — many of whom have never had access to professional ballet training. 

“These children face political unrest and kidnappings, yet they remain dedicated to dance. The SPA gave us wings to fly without worrying about finances. We’re redefining what’s possible for Nigerian ballet students.” 

One moment stays with him: 

“A boy who used to watch his sisters in class decided to join – the only boy in the class, with full parental support. That’s how we measure success.” 

After attending the ISTD’s Broadening Access course, Georgina created a programme bringing dance into school curricula, helping children explore creativity, connection, and confidence. 

“It inspired me to apply… the course helped me see that I can be a ‘dance educator’ in multiple settings.” 

Her project is now reaching children across her region – and growing. 

Veronica’s project in Chichester reached over 630 primary-aged children, including Ukrainian refugee students and children with SEND. 

“Developing sustainability was always a key goal. Forty percent of the schools have asked us back – they now value dance and are embedding it into their curriculum.” 

Her advice to anyone considering applying? 

“Share your work. Be flexible. Be persistent.” 

Michelle’s work with young adults with Down’s Syndrome has become a cornerstone of community belonging: 

“Participants have formed a close-knit group with a strong sense of identity. It’s wonderful to know we’re building an inclusive community where barriers once existed.” 

Changing the future of dance teaching – together

The new fundraising campaign aims to: 

• increase the number of bursaries available each year 
• reach more underrepresented communities 
• support innovative projects globally 
• strengthen the diversity, sustainability, and excellence of dance teaching around the world 

As valued ISTD teachers, your support is powerful. You can: 

• help raise awareness 
• share these stories 
• encourage donations 
• and, importantly, consider applying for the bursaries yourself 

Many of our strongest projects began with a single teacher saying: “Maybe I could try.” 

As one recipient put it: 

Behind every bursary is a teacher with a dream – and behind every teacher, a ripple effect touching hundreds of lives. 

Your advocacy, your voice, and your belief in what dance can do will shape the next generation of teachers and students everywhere. 

If the stories above moved you, imagine the stories yet to be written. 

Let’s make them possible.