Dance Performance and Teaching graduate, Hannah Stubbs, tells us her experience

Hannah has been dancing from an early age and aspired to teach the discipline. She chose the Dance Performance and Teaching degree course at the University of Central Lancashire because it was the only one of its kind that incorporated the teaching element.

After graduating from the University of Central Lancashire in 2014, Hannah completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in 14+ education and as part of this, fulfilled a year-long placement at a secondary school in Halifax where she taught dance and drama to Key Stage 3, 4 and 5 students. Hannah then went on to gain her Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status when she took up a year-long maternity post teaching at a secondary school.

Hannah progressed with her teaching and secured a permanent job at Beckfoot Oakbank school in Keighley, where she has been for the last three years. She also passed her Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT) and Recently Qualified Teacher (RQT) year at the school.

Hannah’s role involves teaching dance, drama and some English to Key Stage 3 and 4 students. She also teaches BTEC Level 2 Performing Arts. Hannah was recently appointed as a subject leader for performing arts, where she is responsible for the Key Stage 3 performing arts curriculum and leads on the extra-curricular program, including a dance company, cheerleading team and drama club.

Looking back on her University of Central Lancashire experience, Hannah has some lasting memories from her degree. She reflected: “During my time at the University of Central Lancashire, I loved the somatic movement element of the course. This inspired me to complete my independent project on how the practice can benefit people with MS, like my mum, which really interested me. I also loved the teaching placements in second year that fuelled my ambition to become a teacher and gave me a foundation of skills to develop.”

Hannah further added: “Whilst at the University of Central Lancashire, I was appointed as a dance tutor for Ludus Dance Company. This was a fantastic opportunity that allowed me to continue to develop my practice.”

When asked what advice she would give to graduates and students wanting to follow a similar career path, Hannah stated: “Take all the opportunities that are given to you, try things, it may end up being your passion. Make contacts with peers, lecturers, visiting artists. You never know when they might come in handy. Be organised, manage your time to avoid stress and maximise your success. Be open to opportunities after graduation. Be an Arts ambassador by maintaining and preaching your passion.”