Meet Jake Burden

National College of Dance, Newcastle

I started teaching a few years before finishing my professional dance career, so 13 years. I wanted to pass on the experience that I had learned as a professional dancer to the next generation of students.

I tend to specialise in students who are around 11 and over, when dancers start to realise they have a dream to become a professional dancer.

For me, balancing technique and artistry is like balancing structure and creativity. I emphasise technique as the language of dance, but I equally stress the importance of personal expression, helping students find their unique artistic voice within that structure.

The most rewarding part of teaching for me is the moment when a student overcomes a challenge or discovers something new about themselves through dance. Those breakthroughs, whether big or small, remind me of the impact we can have as teachers.

The best quality a teacher can bring into a room is inspiration. A teacher who inspires their students not only to work hard but to believe in their own potential can make a lasting impact on their lives, both in and out of the studio.

Since I was a student, the teacher-student relationship has become more collaborative. Teaching was often more authoritarian. Today, there’s a greater emphasis on nurturing individual expression and fostering open communication, which creates a more supportive learning environment.

The advice I would give anyone contemplating becoming a teacher is to remember that teaching is an art in itself. It’s not just about passing on steps, but about inspiring passion, creativity, and a love for dance. Approach each class with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to see your students succeed.

If I had to give my pupils one line of advice, it would be to dance with heart and integrity. Technique will take you far, but it’s your passion and honesty in your art that will set you apart. 

This article is one of several articles spotlighting teachers in the Oct/Nov/Dec issue of Dance Australia. Buy your copy from your favourite retailer or subscribe or buy online here. Print is for keeps!