Apprentice Program

Our FREE Fall 2025 Apprentice Program is Around the Corner!

Have you ever thought about teaching dance—even if you're not a trained dancer? Whether you're looking to build a flexible side hustle or pursue a full-time career, our Apprenticeship Program at Ballroom Dance Chicago is designed to help you become a confident, capable instructor in ballroom, Latin, and swing styles.

This Program Might Be Right For You If…

✅ You’re curious about teaching dance but don’t have formal training.

✅ You have good body awareness.

✅ You enjoy working both in a team and individually.

✅ You’re self-motivated.

✅ You’re confident enough to receive and implement feedback.

✅ You’re comfortable with the discomfort of learning something new.

✅ You’re able to put in practice time outside of scheduled sessions.

2025 Program Overview

Why The Apprentice Program at BDC Is Such a High-Level Opportunity

Ballroom Dance Chicago isn’t your typical ballroom studio. We’ve spent nearly 20 years redefining what dance instruction can be—creative, adaptable, and completely student-focused. We’re known for helping students feel successful from their very first lesson, and that success comes from our distinct teaching philosophy and high standard of customer care.

At BDC, we don’t just teach steps—we train our instructors to understand the “why” behind every movement and how to make learning feel personal and engaging. This requires a level of thoughtfulness, adaptability, and attention to detail that goes far beyond traditional ballroom instruction.

Because of this specificity, we only promote from within. We’re looking for individuals who are trained in our robust teaching methodology and who understand the level of professionalism and service our students expect. This apprenticeship is the first step toward joining a studio team that values creativity, communication, and long-term growth.

And there’s more: as our studio continued to expand, in the next 1-2 years, we’re looking to fill roles not just in teaching, but in management, social media and marketing, and events. For the right individuals, this program opens doors far beyond the dance floor.

Program Overview

  • Program Length: 12 weeks

  • Dance Styles: Ballroom (Tue), Swing (Wed) and Latin (Fri).

  • Weekly Schedule:

    • One evening per week (Tues, Wed, or Fri from 6–9 PM)

    • AND Saturdays from 10 AM–1 PM (The fourth Sat of every month, the session will move to 5:30pm - 8:30pm for training, and then attending the 4th Saturday Social.)

  • Total Weekly Commitment: 6 hours in-studio, plus additional self-study

  • Location: Lakeview studio - 4039b N. Ravenswood Ave, 60613

  • Cost: $100 non-refundable start-up fee to cover your materials

This is a structured, team-based environment—we cannot offer scheduling flexibility. Please make sure you are able to fully commit to the schedule before applying.

Next Steps: Attend the Info Session

Saturday, September 6 at 9:30 AM in Lakeview

  • 📍 Lakeview Studio - 4039b N. Ravenswood Ave

  • 🗓 Saturday, September 6

  • 🕤 9:30 AM

This is a no-commitment meeting, but it is your one chance to learn about the program before our fall session begins. We’ll start with a short dance training, walk through expectations, structure, and answer your questions. If you're serious about applying, attendance is essential.

We will select program participants by September 13, your one-time fee is dues September 27, and the program officially begins the week of September 30.

Those who excel in the program will be eligible for paid assistant teaching roles beginning January 2026 and will have the opportunity to continue their training.

Please note: Employment is not guaranteed.