Forum: Veteran instructor without cert now can’t teach SkillsFuture course

I am in my 60s. For 40 years, I have taught line dance, international dance and contemporary dance.

I have judged competitions and taught workshops in Singapore and the region, including Japan and Hong Kong.

I have been a choreographer for Singapore’s National Day Parade and Chingay and am well known in my industry.

Five years ago, I was asked to teach a SkillsFuture-endorsed instructor course, and my students did well.

But for the past two years, I have not been able to teach because of the rule that says trainers must have an Advanced Certificate in Learning and Performance.

The instructor is now someone in his 30s with far less experience, but he has the certificate.

I have no formal education, but an exam and certificate cannot measure my ability to lead a room, break down a step, or inspire confidence in older learners.

I call on SkillsFuture and the relevant authorities to recognise proven mastery, like in my case, and create a competency-based alternative for senior veterans to continue teaching and to hold down a job.

Low Boon Hua