Community Dance Teacher, Indigenous Programs

Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact in the community and development of young artists?  Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) invites applications for the contract, part-time position of Community Dance Teacher, Indigenous Programs. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact through community-based programming that supports the development of young artists and the transformative power of dance.  

Contract term: July 2026 – June 2027, with potential for extension. 

About Us: 
Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) is a leading arts and education institution dedicated to excellence in dance training, community programming, and health initiatives. NBS has 300+ employees supporting programs ranging from professional ballet training, community engagement, and groundbreaking health initiatives. NBS fosters a collaborative, creative environment rooted in inclusion and continuous growth. 

The Role:  

The Community Dance Teacher, Indigenous Programs will support and deliver inclusive, participant-centered dance programing engaging Indigenous individuals and communities.  Under the guidance of the NBS’ Community Dance, Senior Coordinator of Indigenous Relations, the educator will deliver dance programming grounded in understandings, ways of knowing, and lived experiences of Indigenous cultures. Fostering belonging and social inclusion and increasing access to meaningful artistic opportunities, contributing to individual and community wellbeing. Program delivery is centered in urban, rural, and reserve Indigenous communities (e.g., Indigenous schools, community and Friendship Centers, Indigenous service organizations). Experience with all dance forms welcome; expertise in Indigenous dance forms is considered an asset.  

Community Dance Programs: 

NBS’ Community Dance programs translate NBS’s expertise in dance education into a range of programs that help Canadians explore and realize their artistic potential and enjoy better health through movement. The current suite includes programming for older adults, including persons experiencing physical/cognitive challenges; children in public schools; children with diverse physical, behavioural, and sensory needs; and youth. Programming takes place on a local, regional and national scale with digital resources designed for broad accessibility. 

Designation Statement (Special Program & Special Employment):  

This position is designated for individuals who self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, or Métis) and is being recruited as part of a special program under Section 14 of the Ontario Human Rights Code. The purpose of this program is to address the underrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples in dance education and to support culturally grounded, community-led programming. 

Indigenous identity is considered a bona fide occupational requirement for this role, as it is reasonably and directly connected to the essential duties of the position, including the delivery of programming grounded in Indigenous cultural knowledge, lived experience, and community relationships. 

Applicants will be invited to self-identify. NBS is committed to a respectful and culturally appropriate approach to this process.  

Major Duties and Responsibilities 

• Teach dance workshops and classes to Indigenous individuals and communities, guided by NBS Community Dance principles 

• Deliver classes/workshops with inclusive design, fostering a sense of belonging and social inclusion, including persons with a diversity of physical, behavioural, and sensory needs. 

• Ensure a culturally competent, participant-centered approach that considers the unique needs of the community and individual, and class content and delivery that aligns with NBS’ goal of advancing equity in dance. 

• Support program administration by completing forms, surveys, and other required information 

• Collaborate with NBS staff, program volunteers, and other supporting personnel to ensure a positive work environment 

• Follow safety guidelines and keep participant information private and confidential 

• Attend meetings and training opportunities to continue learning and growing as a community dance educator; model the value of life-long learning through a sense of curiosity, commitment to evidence-based promising practices,   

• Programming may include opportunities for travel. 

• All other duties as assigned 

Qualifications/Skills/Experience 

• High school diploma preferred  

• Experience teaching dance in community settings; formal dance qualifications or certifications are an asset but not required. Applicants without formal dance education are encouraged to apply if they have significant experience with their dance form (5-10 years recommended) and/or dance teaching experience (1-5 years recommended) 

• Indigenous identity and lived experience (First Nations, Inuit, and/or Métis) along with cultural knowledge and community connection  

• We welcome educators from all dance styles and traditions, especially Indigenous dance forms such as Pow Wow, Fancy Shawl, Jingle Dress, Inuit Drum Dancing, and Métis Jigging  

• Ability to create joyful, welcoming, and culturally safe dance spaces for Indigenous individuals and communities  

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills to maintain positive relationships with staff, participants, volunteers etc.; 

• Strong communication, relationship-building, and group facilitation skills  

• Patient, adaptable, and able to work respectfully in dynamic community environments 

Compensation 
Salary Range: $30- $60 per hour, based on experience and aligned with internal equity. 

Our Commitment to Equity & Accessibility 
NBS is committed to addressing systemic inequities in every facet of our organization including programs, policies and practices. It is NBS’ top priority to build a remarkable and talented workforce that reflects the diversity of the City of Toronto. We strongly encourage applications from all qualified individuals, and we welcome those with diverse intersectional identities who bring unique perspectives and contribute to the diversification of ideas. 
 

If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please inform us. 
 
Successful candidates must supply Canada’s National Ballet School with a Police Reference Check in accordance with the School’s Child Abuse/Sexual Abuse Prevention Policy; this will be coordinated through the Human Resources Department at NBS