FAQ for professionals

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La réglementation de l’enseignement de la danse en France

What is the minimum age for taking up dance?

With regard to dance, Article R362-1 of the Education Code stipulates:

  • An introductory movement programme for children aged between 4 and 5,
  • An introductory dance programme for children aged between 6 and 7.

Can a dance teacher teach in France without a qualification?

Yes and no: it all depends on the discipline being taught.

Since 1989 in France, the teaching of classical, contemporary and jazz dance has been regulated, notably by Article L362-1 of the Education Code (opens in a new window). This also applies to early learning and introductory classes.

The law states that no one may teach dance for remuneration or use the title of dance teacher or an equivalent title unless they hold:

Either a state-awarded dance teacher’s diploma, 

  • Or a certificate of aptitude for the role of dance teacher,
  • Or a French or foreign diploma recognised as equivalent,
  • Or an exemption granted on the grounds of particular renown or proven experience
  • in the field of dance teaching, which they can demonstrate.
  • Or recognition of professional qualifications for nationals of an EU or EEA member state.

Other disciplines are not, as yet, regulated.

Does a dance school need authorisation to offer dance classes?

The school must submit a declaration of opening by completing a Cerfa form no. 10452-03. It must display its teachers’ state-recognised dance teaching qualifications (classical, contemporary or jazz). The school must also comply with the regulatory requirements regarding dance studios as set out in Articles R 462-1 et seq. of the Education Code (studio standards, public access buildings, etc.)

Further information: CND factsheet ‘Operating a dance teaching venue’

 

Is it necessary to ask every pupil for a medical certificate every year in order for them to take part in a dance class? What about one-off dance courses?

Yes. According to Article R 362-2 of the Education Code, before the start of each term, the dance school must ensure that pupils have a medical certificate confirming that there are no medical contraindications to their participation in dance lessons. This certificate must be renewed every year (and not every three years, as is the case for taking part in sport).

Since the reform simplifying access to sport and the government’s aim to reduce the administrative burden on doctors, it can sometimes be difficult to obtain this medical certificate in order to enrol on a dance class. However, only the Sports Code has been amended, not the Education Code, which governs the teaching of dance. If you encounter difficulties in obtaining this certificate from a doctor, it may be helpful to show them Article R 362-2 of the Education Code, which remains in force.

Finally, the requirement to obtain a medical certificate under the Education Code does not specify a minimum number of teaching hours.

It applies to all dance teaching establishments, even for one-off classes. No exemptions are provided for in the legislation.

Has the medical certificate confirming fitness to practise dance been replaced by a questionnaire?

No. According to Article R 362-2 of the Education Code, before the start of each term, the dance school must ensure that pupils have a medical certificate confirming that there are no medical contraindications to their participation in dance lessons. The questionnaire relates to sporting activities and activities governed by the Sports Code.

Further information: CND factsheet: Dance teaching in the local public sector; Dance teaching in the private sector

Which dance disciplines can be taught without a dance teaching qualification?

Only classes in early childhood dance, beginners’ classes, and classical, contemporary and jazz dance are subject to regulatory requirements. Other forms of dance may be taught without a compulsory qualification.

What are the penalties for a teacher of ballet, contemporary or jazz dance who teaches without a state-recognised qualification?

Teaching ballet, contemporary or jazz dance without a state-recognised qualification constitutes a criminal offence.

The following are punishable by a fine of €3,750 (Article L 462-5 of the Education Code):

  • the head of an educational establishment entrusting the teaching of dance to a person who has not obtained a dance teacher’s qualification or its equivalent, or who has not been duly exempted from this qualification;
  • any person providing dance tuition without having obtained the dance teacher’s diploma or its equivalent, or without having been duly exempted from this diploma.

The court may also order the closure of the establishment or prohibit the person from operating an establishment where dance tuition is provided, for a period not exceeding three years