Bird College of Dance, Music & Theatre Performance is a renowned conservatoire located in Sidcup, London, England. Established in 1944 by Muriel Bird, it has grown into one of the UK's leading institutions for training professional performers in dance and musical theatre. The college offers BA (Hons) degrees in Dance (with specialisms in jazz, ballet, and contemporary) and Musical Theatre, as well as professional diplomas. With a focus on practical, industry-ready training, Bird College prepares students for careers on stage, screen, and in education. Jobs at Bird College span teaching, performance coaching, administration, and support roles, attracting passionate professionals in the performing arts.
The institution's commitment to excellence is evident in its alumni, who have performed in West End productions, on cruise ships, and with companies like the English National Ballet. For those seeking university jobs in a creative environment, Bird College provides a dynamic setting where educators shape the next generation of talent.
Bird College began as a small dance school during World War II, founded by Muriel Bird, a former principal dancer with the International Ballet Company. Post-war, it expanded to include music and theatre, gaining university status through partnerships with Canterbury Christ Church University. Key milestones include the opening of its state-of-the-art studios in 2010 and achieving 100% employment rates for graduates in creative industries. This evolution has created diverse job opportunities, from foundational teaching posts to senior leadership in arts education.
Throughout its 80 years, the college has navigated challenges like funding cuts in arts education by fostering strong industry ties, leading to roles in guest directing and masterclasses by professionals from the Royal Academy of Dance.
Bird College's programs emphasize triple-threat training (dance, singing, acting), making faculty roles multidisciplinary. Key offerings include the BA (Hons) Musical Theatre Triple Threat, where lecturers teach technique, repertoire, and audition skills. Dance programs cover ISTD syllabus and commercial styles, requiring instructors with performance credentials.
Jobs often align with these curricula, such as contemporary dance lecturers needing choreography experience or musical directors with accompaniment expertise. Explore lecturer jobs for similar positions across UK conservatoires.
Careers at Bird College are ideal for those passionate about performing arts education. Common positions include:
These roles contribute to the college's 98% graduate employment rate. For broader options, see higher ed jobs.
For teaching jobs at Bird College, a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in performing arts is required, with a Master's or PhD preferred for senior roles. Teaching qualifications like a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) are advantageous. Professional equivalents, such as Registered Teacher Status (RTS) from the Royal Academy of Dance, substitute for academic degrees.
Administrative positions typically require a degree in arts management or business, plus experience in higher education.
Research at Bird College centers on pedagogical innovation in performing arts, such as inclusive dance practices and digital performance tools. Expertise in somatic movement, voice pedagogy (e.g., Estill Voice Training), or choreography for diverse bodies is valued. Lecturers often publish in journals like Research in Dance Education or present at conferences like the National Association of Teachers of Singing.
Preferred candidates have 5+ years professional performance experience (e.g., credits in Cats or Billy Elliot), prior teaching in conservatoires, and evidence of student success like alumni in major companies. Publications, grants from Arts Council England, or festival direction strengthen applications.
Essential skills include strong communication for one-on-one coaching, adaptability for varied student levels, and proficiency in software like Dance Teacher Manager. Competencies like cultural sensitivity for international students and leadership for production teams are crucial. Technical skills in jazz hands technique or belting voice are role-specific.
The application process involves submitting a CV, cover letter, and portfolio/audition video via the college website or higher ed jobs portals. Shortlisted candidates attend interviews with practical demos. Tips:
Applications peak in summer for September starts.
Bird College champions diversity through the Bird Access Scheme, offering bursaries to BAME and LGBTQ+ students, and faculty training on unconscious bias. They collaborate with Stopgap Dance Company for integrated dance, ensuring 30% diverse hires in recent years. Initiatives include gender-neutral auditions and allyship programs.
The Sidcup campus features modern studios, a 200-seat theatre, and green spaces for relaxation. Lecturers enjoy 35-hour weeks with term-time focus, professional development funding, and flexible scheduling around productions. Staff wellness includes free classes and EAP counseling. Proximity to London (20 mins by train) offers cultural access, while the suburban setting provides quiet for creativity. Events like annual showcases foster community.
Bird College offers rewarding higher ed jobs in a vibrant performing arts hub. From dance lecturers to theatre directors, roles demand passion and expertise. Explore higher ed career advice and university jobs for more, or post a job if recruiting. Check employer branding secrets for strategies.
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