Who the scheme is for
The CDMT Recognised Awards Scheme is for schools and teachers working in the pre-vocational performing arts sector who wish to demonstrate their commitment towards the safety of their students, as well as promoting the importance of the appropriate requirements for teachers and supporting students’ progression in dance, drama, music and musical theatre education. The scheme is principally aimed at performing arts schools and teachers working in out-of-school settings, teaching children between the ages of 4-16, such as dance studios and drama clubs, as well as individuals teaching peripatetically in schools. Those that take part in the Recognised Awards scheme often prepare students for graded examinations with one of CDMT’s Validated Awarding organisations.
Recognised Schools are pre-vocational dance, drama or musical theatre environments teaching students either in groups or individually. A Recognised School might have just one or two teachers, or as many as twenty, depending on their location, premises and local reach.
Recognised Schools confirm that they adhere to the Nine Requirements of this category within the scheme, including holding valid DBS Certificates, having appropriate policies and procedures in place, and that the majority of teaching is undertaken by staff that hold a teaching qualification at Level 3 or above on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).
Recognised Teachers are individuals teaching in pre or non-vocational dance, drama or musical theatre settings educating students either in groups or individually.
Recognised Teachers confirm that they adhere to the Six Requirements of this category within the scheme, including holding a valid DBS Certificate, following a suitable Code of Conduct and Practice, and that they hold a teaching qualification at Level 3 or above on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).
As of September 2025, Recognised Award holders will be recognised for specific performing arts disciplines, reflecting their provision. This is to celebrate the variety of performing arts training delivered by CDMT Recognised Schools and Teachers, and to help them effectively promote the safe and good standards in their particular setting.
The awards on offer are:
- Recognised Dance School
- Recognised Dance Teacher
- Recognised Drama School
- Recognised Drama Teacher
- Recognised Dance and Musical Theatre School
- Recognised Drama and Musical Theatre School
- Recognised Music Teacher
Award holders renew their information through the portal annually. Fees are stated on the application form.
To find out more about joining the Recognised Awards Scheme, including information on CDMT’s support package for award holders, please click here.
Once you’re ready to complete your application to join the Recognised Awards, just register for the scheme on the portal, and confirm your commitment to upholding safe and professional standards of practice!
Should you have any questions about the Recognised Awards scheme please email us using [email protected].
If you are already an award holder, you can log in to the brand new Recognised Awards portal here.