born to fly trainee handbook - aerial teacher training€¦ · rebekah leach, founder rebekah is an...

Aerial Teacher Trainee Handbook

Version 1.0 January 19, 2018

© 2018 Born to Fly Productions. All rights reserved. !1

Table of Contents

1. Introduction……………………………..3Our Story, Mission & Vision, 3Staff, 5Providers, 7

2. Live Teacher Trainings………………………9Courses, 9Electives, 10Schedule, Hosting, Prerequisites; 11

3. Aerial Teacher Certificate Program……….12Certificates Offered, 11Trainee Competencies, 12Code of Ethics, 13Practicum Requirements, 14Online Modules, 15Mentorship Hours, 17Video Feedback (RTAP), 17-19CPR Training Requirement, 19Completing a Certificate, 20

4. Renewing Certificate Status………………21Routes A, B, C, 21Missing the Deadline, 21Non-Renewal, 21

5. Continuing Education……………………..22Elective Courses, 22Refreshers, 22Mentorships, 22

6. Signature Page…………………………….23

Disclaimer: Aerial arts is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury, paralysis, and even death. Participate at your own risk. Consult with your physician prior to

beginning an exercise program.

The terms of this program and information in this handbook are subject to change.


Our Story Rebekah Leach and Julianna Hane met in Charleston, SC in 2010. During Rebekah’s tenure as nuclear physics instructor with the U.S. Navy, she began researching the Aerial Hoop Manual. Julianna, an aerialist and dance professor at the College of Charleston, was excited to jump on board with the project. Brainstorming sessions at Rebekah’s kitchen table turned into philosophical discussions about the heart of aerial dance and how to teach it well. They discovered that they shared many common beliefs:

• Movement and art reveal the power of human expression.• Balancing technical and expressive training from Day 1 engages the whole human being.• The real dance lies within the transitions between skills.

The Aerial Hoop Manual project grew into 2 volumes, with a teacher training program nipping at its heels. Rebekah and Julianna began co-teaching teacher training retreat at The Marsh Studio in Darien, GA founded by Susan Murphy. Julianna also began traveling the country offering teacher trainings in aerial yoga, fabric, and hoop. Meeting people around the country with the same passion for aerial arts and movement gave us the knowledge that we were onto something wonderful.

The dream of offering a comprehensive aerial teacher certificate program soon became a reality. Rebekah’s expertise in curriculum creation combined with Julianna’s education background became the foundation of the current Born to Fly Aerial Teacher Programs and Support. Trainees from all over the world are completing their certifications as we speak, and we are thrilled to be part of everyone’s journey.


Mission The mission of Born to Fly Teacher Programs and Support is to provide safe, holistic instruction for teachers and aerial enthusiasts that emphasizes both technique and expression in the aerial arts. We strive to bring best practices in safety, aerial technique, anatomy, creative process, and teaching methods together under one program. We deliver content through a combination of live trainings, workshops, online resources. Balancing both the function of the body with the creativity enables students to grow both physically and emotionally, educating the whole person.

Vision Our vision is to support a higher standard of safety and informed teaching practices by providing aerial educators with ongoing mentorship and support in both live training and online resources. Our partnerships with teacher trainers across the USA and internationally gives trainees access to many different teaching styles united under one program, as well as more knowledge and expertise in a variety of settings.

Program Credentials Currently, there is no official accrediting body (and therefore no certifying bodies) for aerial arts instruction in the United States of America. If there were, we’d be a part of it! Our master trainers are experienced aerial instructors and/or studio owners who have proven themselves in the industry. Some of trainers hold certifications through NCCA (National Council on Certifying Agencies) accredited programs like the American Council on Exercise, and some hold a 200-hour teacher registration through the Yoga Alliance. Several trainers are current or former K-12 Certified Educators. Some trainers are safety committee members for the American Circus Educators Organization, and presenters at their conferences. Our trainers also create resources for aerial teachers (books, videos, etc.) in collaboration with Rebekah Leach, founder of the Born to Fly Curriculum site (formerly aerialdancing.com).

Certificate Definition Upon successful completion of the practicum and evaluation process, trainees receive a Born to Fly Aerial Teacher Certificate verifying the number of hours of education completed (50 hours minimum). This certificate can be presented to studio owners and insurance companies as proof of education. The certificate is valid for 2 years after completion as best practices are constantly evolving in this industry. Renewal is intended to kelp instructors get the latest updates in safety and teaching standards.

A certificate differs from a certification since there are currently no certifying bodies for aerial arts in the United States.

Completion of a Born to Fly Certificate grants you a listing on the Born to Fly website under certificate holders. This listing includes name, city/state, and expiration date for studio owners and students to verify. Certificates must be renewed every 2 years. Teachers who do not renew their certificates will be removed from our list of Current Certificate Holders on our website.


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Staff

Rebekah Leach, Founder Rebekah is an aerial dancer who is very passionate about creating aerial dance art, as well as teaching and promoting creativity in others. She has been teaching ever since she knew something to teach, and has been dancing ever since she could walk. She has studied the following at some point in her life: modern dance, ballet, tap, hip hop, breakdancing, yoga, ballet, Pilates, salsa, baton twirling, rhythmic gymnastics (specialty: ribbon), hula hooping, stunt-focused cheerleading, and even some pop 'n lock learned from street

artists. Rebekah's unique movement background styles come together in a unique blend to influence the way in which she approaches the aerial arts.

Rebekah started teaching aerial fabric dance in San Luis Obispo, California, in 2006. She developed a unique curriculum to teach beginning students who were having trouble with the upper body strength required for advanced movement. After moving to Ojai, CA, Rebekah opened a studio where she taught all forms of aerial dance, and fostered the creativity of students of all ages.

Having recently opened a studio in Castle Rock, CO called Aerial Works, Rebekah continues to write aerial instructional manuals; (8 published to date); film sequences and aerial moves for Born to Fly Curriculum library (formerly aerialdancing.com); and expand Born to Fly Teacher Trainings and Support.

Julianna Hane, Director of Training Julianna traded life on a cotton farm to be a dancer and aerialist. She holds a BA in Dance from Winthrop University, an MFA in Modern Dance from the University of Utah, a certification in Laban Movement Analysis (CLMA), and a Registered Yoga Teacher designation (RYT-200). She is also a graduate of the New England Center for Circus Arts (NECCA) Professional Training Program, having studied with Elsie and Serenity Smith, Aimee Hancock, and Sellam Ouahabi. She has also attend the Aerial Dance Festival and studied with several aerial dance pioneers. Julianna is most interested in integrating physical function with personal expression in aerial dance.

Julianna first experienced aerial dance at Winthrop University in 2001 where she performed on rope & harness. In 2008 she founded Revolve Aerial Dance, the first school and performing company in the state of Utah. Through the company she co-produced concerts, performed in corporate events, and taught college residencies. She wrote her master's thesis on aerial dance choreography under the guidance of Donna White, Eric Handman, Abby Fiat and Tandy Beal.

Julianna has served as dance faculty at the College of Charleston, Winthrop University, and the University of Utah; faculty at NECCA; and assistant to Susan Murphy at the Marsh Studio in


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GA. Julianna has developed curriculum for K-12 and college dance programs, private aerial studios, and teacher trainings for both aerial and modern dance. She co-authored two aerial hoop manuals with Rebekah Leach, and is the author of The Aerial Teacher's Handbook.

Elizabeth Stich, RTAP Video Reviewer and Assistant Trainer When Elizabeth's older brother catapulted her off a makeshift teeter board and into the hospital at the tender age of 8, she never imagined it would foreshadow a distant career in the circus. A childhood ballerina turned college modern dancer turned aerialist, Liz has been an aerial instructor and performer for over 8 years – first with Revolve Aerial Dance and then Aerial Arts of Utah. She has taught aerial dance courses and master classes in higher education settings such as Weber State University, Snow College, and Brigham Young University. She has also taught dance technique and theory courses as an adjunct instructor

at Weber State University and Utah Valley University and as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the University of Utah. In addition to her love of teaching, Liz is a passionate performer, most recently battling wind and water in over 200 shows of Cirque de la Mer at Sea World San Diego.

Liz holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Modern Dance from the University of Utah, a Bachelor of Arts degree with a minor in Dance Education from the University of Georgia, and a Certificate in Laban Movement Analysis/Baretenieff Fundamentals from Integrated Movement Studies. She is a graduate of NECCA's Pro Track program, and has co-presented on the creative application of Laban theory to aerial dance with colleague Julianna Hane at the Motus Humanus Roundtable.


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Born to Fly Providers

Our provider network brings together highly experienced, diverse aerial teacher trainers in a variety of disciplines. Each trainer has an extensive background in aerial training, performance, and teaching. Approved providers offer live training credit toward certificates through Born to Fly.

Providers renew on an annual basis, and are subject to change. Also, not all trainings offered by a provider are Born to Fly approved. Please check our website for the most up-to-date provider listings and course schedules.


Live Teacher Trainings Core Courses

1. Aerial Yoga (Hammock) Aerial yoga is a great introduction to aerial training, because it is accessible to people without prior experience. Aerial yoga utilizes the fabric sling as a prop to enhance ground based postures, and to take postures into the air. Our program is divided into two levels because we value establishing a solid foundation of functional fitness (stability and mobility) in our classes before moving into performance and strength training.

• Part 1 focuses on gentle and beginner aerial yoga. Postures are mostly ground-based to enhance stability through the entire body. The fabric sling is used to make ground yoga postures more accessible, and to find clear alignment. Safe and effective teaching are core themes in this training.

• Part 2 goes into more challenging postures to increase strength and flexibility. Deep openers for the hips, back, and shoulders are a major focus, as well as strength poses such as handstands. Solid alignment and self-awareness are the cornerstones of a safe practice at this level.

II. Aerial Fabric (Silks) • Recommended Prerequisite - the Aerial Sling 1 course

is an excellent precursor to the silks teacher trainings. Sling material helps beginner students to develop the necessary grip, shoulder, and core strength necessary to begin studying aerial silks.

• Level 1 transitions from sling/knot work into climbs and foot locks. Progressions for shoulder/ribcage placement, core engagement, and inversions are a central focus of this course.

• Level 2 continues the foot lock theme, and shifts into hip key and hip hitch theories. The goal at this level is to prepare students for drops in future levels through proper body positioning during rotation through space.

• Level 3 moves into beginner drops including roll downs, dives/saltos, and other single axis rotational movements.

• Level 4 focuses on more advanced drops, sequences and choreography as well as fabric theory and learning to develop one’s own fabric vocabulary.

III. Aerial Hoop (Lyra) • Level 1 focuses on safety and foundations in bar technique. Aerial Sling I is a great prerequisite

for teaching lyra because it is softer, and many lyra skills can be performed on the sling. Since hoop is a choice for many studios with low ceilings, the curriculum was created to start


students inside the low hoop. This course also includes various beginner mounts and inversion progressions.

• Level 2 focuses on classic balances, rolls, and beats. It requires a higher level of strength, power, and coordination, as well as a certain pain tolerance for spending more time on the lyra.

IV. Trapeze • Level 1 features a mixture of static and dance trapeze skills inspired by different schools of

thought including both circus and aerial dance. We begin with the low trapeze bar and seated skills that work for beginners of all types. The course progresses into standing work on the low bar, and then on to hanging skills underneath the bar. Proper spotting, cueing techniques, and clear progressions are strongly emphasized. Clinics include spotting techniques and core engagement progressions, while discussion topics include safety, teaching philosophies, classroom management, and an open Q&A. The training concludes with practice teaching.

V. Rope • Level 1 Fast-Track Course allows instructors to work on skills specific to rope following their

participation in the Silks 1 training. Since most of the Silks 1 skills translate directly to rope, this course will piggyback on that information, giving you rope-specific teaching and skills options.

Elective Courses

Elective courses offer supplemental training that can be tacked onto the beginning or end of a core course, or taken separately as a way of renewing your certification. Courses vary by trainer, but current live offerings can be found on the website and may include:

• Winning Warm-Ups and Conditioning for Aerialists • Progressions and Curriculum Planning • Youth Aerial Teaching - Aerial Arts and Yoga Specialties • and more!


"Rebekah and Julianna are amazing teachers and the level of material they covered in the 4 days, as well as the polished way it was presented, made this training the best I've experienced yet. They are two such inspiring and knowledgeable women....not to mention experts in their field!! Thank you!!" ~ Lorraine B.

Schedule, Hosting, and Prerequisites

Schedule for Existing Courses Visit our website for a complete schedule of all Born to Fly Core and Provider trainings.

Host a Training Do our current trainings not fit your schedule? Many of our trainers do travel! Please email us for more information on hosting a training at a studio near you.

Private Training Some instructors have vast aerial teaching experience, and want to get training in higher skill levels. Because of this need, we offer private trainings that can be customized to suit an individual trainee’s unique needs and interests. Please email us for more information.

Prerequisites Each course has prerequisites for skill level (through an audition video) and experience required to enroll. Elective course prerequisites range from audition video to permission by instructor. Visit our website for details.


Certificate Program

Why a certificate? As the aerial industry expands into gyms, dance studios, and gymnastics facilities around the world, facility owners are noticing that hiring trained instructors can reduce their risk of liability.

Our certificate program follows industry standard practices to elevate the professionalism of our field and support teachers/aspiring teachers who wish to further their education. We work with teachers from all walks of life and promote safe, effective, and creative teaching.

Certificates Offered: • Aerial Yoga,100 hours• Pilates for Aerialists, 100 hours• Aerial Fabric Levels 1-4, 200 hours• Aerial Hoop Levels 1-4, 200 hours• Trapeze Levels 1-4, 200 hours• Aerial Sling Levels 1-4, 200 hours• Rope Levels 1-2, 100 hours

Age Requirement Trainees must be at least 18 years of age to enroll in the Born to Fly™ Certificate Program.

Program StructureEach certificate level adds up to 50 hours. It includes 30 hours of live teacher training through a Born to Fly core trainer or provider, plus 20 practicum hours completed through a combination of online and studio experiences (complete hours at a studio near you or through one of our training centers).

Live Teacher Training 30 contact hours

Practicum (Completed Remotely)* 20 non-contact hours

Complete 30 hours of Born to Fly teacher training with our core trainers, partners, or providers.

Anatomy Course/Assessment Online Modules

Personal Practice (review skills from live training) Take Lessons

Observe Classes Assist Classes

Practice Teach Classes Feedback on video submission x2 (RTAP)

Complete CPR Certification


Trainee Competencies

Each of the competencies below are informally evaluated throughout the training process, and are formally evaluated in the final RTAP video submission. Videos that satisfactorily meet the competencies will be awarded their certificate.

• Safety & Classroom Management: • Embodies a high standard of safety in all aerial activities. (See Safety in Aerial Arts Guidelines).• Remains in control of the class at all times (stepping into their “teacher shoes”). Gives clear

instructions, and uses consequences when instructions are not followed.

• Technique: • Demonstrates a deep understanding of aerial technique as a result of years of training and

investigation. • Uses demonstrations effectively in a class setting.

• Instruction: • Uses strong communication skills that engage students in the learning process. • Able to plan classes with an underlying logic (i.e. warm-ups relate to the class goals). • Able to break down skills into logical progressions and assign tasks to students at their working

level.

• Anatomy & Physiology: • Understands what muscles generate which joint actions and cues accordingly. • Understands limitations of various body types and gives modifications or options during class. • Utilizes appropriate warm-ups, conditioning exercises, and cool-downs based on that specific

class’ needs and abilities.

• Relationship: • Personable, empathetic, welcoming to new students.• Has strong rapport with ongoing students. • Able to give constructive feedback kindly and respectfully.

• Collaboration: • A critical thinker who contributes to group learning during live training.• Remains open to learning from others, including their students.

• Learning Process: Values the learning process that continues after live training by implementing feedback offered throughout the program. A lifelong learner.

• Professionalism: Committed to increasing the rigor and professionalism in the aerial industry by staying updated on the latest safety and teaching standards.

• Creativity: Values creativity and personal expression in the aerial arts either by by creating space for students to explore. or by directly teaching creative skills.


Code of Ethics

This code was reprinted with permission from the author of The Aerial Teacher’s Handbook and serves as the Code of Ethics for the Born to Fly Aerial Teacher Program:

1. Do no harm.

2. Teach within your scope of practice. Provide safe and effective coaching, represent your credentials accurately, and refer students to a more qualified professional when necessary.

3. Treat all students with fairness and respect, and honor client confidentiality.

4. Maintain professional boundaries. This includes physical contact, physical and/or emotional relationships, and financial arrangement.

5. Follow laws that apply in the business, intellectual property, and employment sectors. Maintain up-to-date liability insurance. Represent the field through professional dress and demeanor.

6. Seek continuing education to stay informed on new research and safety standards.


Certificate: Practicum Requirements

Below is a list of each step within the process. Review all information before getting started to see the “big picture” first.

You have one (1) year from the date of your live training to complete the certificate process. If you are not able to complete the practicum and RTAP on time and still wish to continue, we offer extensions for up to 6 months for a fee. After 18 months, we require that you re-take the 30-hour live training course. We may also require completion the practicum requirements a second time depending on the situation.

How/Where to Complete the Practicum After completing the live training, there are several ways you can complete your practicum based on where you live, your ability to travel, your schedule, and the experience you wish to create for yourself.

a Studio Residency If you live near one of our training centers (like AerialWorks Castle Rock), or have the ability to travel to a training center for a week or two, you can complete your practicum hours through a Studio Residency. You would complete observations, take lessons, have conversations with a mentor, and assist classes all under one roof. The training center can guide you in creating your practicum plan (see the following pages for details), and will communicate with Born to Fly regarding your progress and interests.

For a current list of training centers, visit our website. Then contact the individual training center where you wish to complete hours regarding their pricing policies for trainees.

b. Remote/Online If you are the “lone wolf ” aerialist in your area, you can complete many of the hours online (observations, mentorships via online chat, and the video feedback process). Some hours do require studio space, which means they can be completed at a studio near you (remotely).

1. Enroll in the Certificate Program

Enroll to Access Your Born to Fly Account Complete OnlineOnce you have completed a live teacher training through the Born to Fly Network, visit our website to enroll in the program., or email us to get started.

For first-time enrollees, your account will include:• A profile page to track your progress;• Access to the Teacher Resources page with handouts, anatomy videos, and more;• Access to the Online Modules required to complete the program.


Once we receive your enrollment fee, we will build your account and send you an invite link to set your password.

For returning candidates seeking a second or third certificate, your online account will remain active as long as the enrollment fee for the next level has been submitted. There is a discount for second and third certificates - please visit our website for an updated price list.

3. Submit Practicum Plan Complete Online

The Plan Before logging your hours, submit your practicum plan (downloadable from the website) to us via email. This plan allows you to choose how you wish to distribute your hours across each category, including practice teaching, assisting, taking classes, and online modules. More information about each category is listed in Section 4. Since each trainee has different needs and interests, this plan is flexible enough to accommodate those differences. Once we approve your plan, we will add it to your online profile page.

Credit For Prior Teacher Training Experience If you have completed an aerial teacher training with another company prior to entering the Born to Fly™ program, we can award up to 5 hours of “personal practice” on your practicum toward the certificate. Please note that the previous teacher training must be on the same apparatus as the certificate type that you seek, and must have been completed within one (1) year of beginning the Born to Fly™ live training course.

4. Online Modules Complete OnlineThe online modules are a series of videos created specifically for certificate participants. Complete the online modules, including the handouts available for download below each video.

5. Log Hours Download the Application for Certificate document from our website. This will serve as your log for all practicum hours and includes space for a brief reflection of insights from each hour of study. Options for practicum hours include “being a student” hours, personal practice, observing, assisting, practice teaching, and mentorship.

A. Lesson Hours Complete in a Studio Residency or OnlineSometimes it's good to be a student again, especially if you haven't been on in a while because you've been teaching.! As you take class, note the things that you enjoy and the things that perhaps aren't so enjoyable. Reflect on how you can carry the positive elements into your own classes. When you take a class, it needs to be in the specialty area in which you are looking to get certified. Since the focus of this certification program is to transition you from student to teacher, we limit this category to 3 hours maximum.


B. Personal Practice Hours Complete in a Studio Residency or RemotelyPerhaps you realized after taking the teacher training how much you need to work on cueing. Spending time simply going through moves while cueing yourself is beneficial for your journey. If you need time to process the training this might be where you spend some of your hours. We don't want you spending all your time here, so you can only devote up to 3 hours in this category. (These hours are recommended, but not required.)

C. Observation Hours Complete in a Studio Residency, Online, or RemotelyDuring a class observation, you will sit on the sidelines so you can see all the students, and take notes on what you observe. Taking the class for yourself does not count because it’s difficult to be in your “teacher brain” when you should be in your “student brain.” Sitting out and observing helps you focus on the teacher's point of view.

The classes you observe must be on the same apparatus in which you are certifying. For example, if you are working on a Level 1 Fabric Certificate, you ideally would observe a beginning fabric class. We do allow flexibility here as observing a Level 2 Fabric class for your Level 1 certificate can be extremely beneficial because you get to see where the students will be headed in the progressions,. Seeing more advanced skills can help you properly prepare your beginners for the future, but keep in mind that observing higher level skills classes does not mean you are qualified to teach at that level.

If you are working on a Level 4 certificate, you can observe classes on any apparatus at any level. Comment specifically on the crossover between apparatuses in your reflection since the goal is to see the bigger picture in aerial arts training.

As you take notes, consider how the teacher organizes the class, how they cue through the skills, how they make their presence felt around the room, how students respond to the teacher’s methods, etc. See the Aerial Teacher's Handbook for an observation template. The possibilities are endless!

Make notes on the observation sheet regarding the things that particularly stood out to you. Don't forget to bring your observation sheet so that you can get the signature of the teacher that you observed. We recommend doing at least 3 hours of observation; however, this is not required since some of our trainees do not have other classes in their area to observe. If there are other teachers in the area that you can observe, we recommend you take advantage of the opportunity.

D. Assisting Hours Complete in a Studio Residency or RemotelyAssisting a lead teacher with class (primarily spotting) is highly recommended if you have not yet done any teaching solo. Just as we emphasize progression for our own students, is just as important for teachers in training. Working under another instructor is a great way to ease into


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teaching. If you do not have teaching experience, start with some hours here, then progress to teaching private lessons, then semi-privates, then groups.

E. Practice Teaching Hours Complete in a Studio Residency or RemotelyIf you are less experienced in teaching, we recommend teaching private lessons at first. You can progress to teaching two students, and then lead teach classes with an experienced instructor supervising or assisting you. If you already run your own program, by all means, continue on and teach those groups. Or, mix it up and do some private lessons and some group lessons.

Apply the knowledge that you learned in the teacher training and reflect on how its making a difference in your teaching. What are you now noticing that might not have been apparent before? What moments stand out in your teaching? Please share these moments with us on your documentation forms. A minimum of 5 teaching hours are required for each 20-hour practicum. Your 2 RTAP hours are separate from this requirement.

F. Mentorships Complete Online or in a Student ResidencyThe online mentorship program is a way for aerial teachers to connect with other experienced teachers to ask questions, brainstorm ideas, and review. Our mentors have many years of aerial teaching under their belts, and each one has unique specialties that can help you solve specific problems. Visit our website for an updated list of mentors, their specialties, and pricing.

Mentorships are optional, and involve scheduling an online or live meeting with the mentor of your choosing. These hours can be purchased through our store, and your mentor will contact you about setting up a meeting. During the hour, you pick the topic! Discuss your curriculum, class structure, or troubleshoot student issues such as a student who isn't progressing. When you sign up for the program, you choose your own mentor and the topic! Your mentor will contact you to set up an online meeting that suits your schedule.

6. Video Feedback (RTAP) Complete Remotely/Online, or Live*The Remote Teacher Assessment Program allows us to see you teaching a one-hour class from beginning to end on video and provide extensive feedback.

After we receive your first video (see details below), you will get feedback from your reviewer via documentation and an online chat. After implementing your feedback and filming the second video, you will receive a second round of feedback both documented and online. At that time, we will consider you for certificate status. Should you need more time to grow as a teacher, we can offer additional opportunities to film your teaching and receive feedback.


*Note: If a Born to Fly™ reviewer is traveling to your area (i.e. for workshops or a teacher training), you may request to complete part of the review process in person. This requires that you teach the appropriate level/apparatus that matches the certification you are pursuing, and that the class is scheduled at a time when that reviewer can attend. Please contact us for further information.

What will be covered in the assessment? • We will affirm for you what is working well in your classes.• We will answer questions on classroom management, learning styles, safety, lesson plans, body

language & delivery, and a range of other topics.• We will offer refreshing insights about teaching and encourage a healthy level of self-reflection

and assessment. • We will make specific recommendations for research and training options to take your

teaching to the next level.

I. How to Film and Submit Your First Teaching Video

Film yourself teaching: • Film yourself teaching a 60 min. class that matches the teaching certificate level and apparatus

you are seeking. • Be sure that both you and all students are visible in the video.• Be sure your voice is audible. Consider teaching without background music and/or turning off

AC/heat when possible. You may want to film a short clip of yourself speaking at the distance you with be teaching from your camera as a "sound check."

• When filming, note that some mobile devices do not film for more than 20 or 30 minutes at one time. You may have to restart filming in the middle of your class, or have a friend help you film.

• Some teachers have used two cameras to get both close-up and wide angle shots, and edited them side-by-side. Others have used mobile devices or point & shoot cameras.

• Please also obtain permission from your students prior to filming them. Let them know that it is for feedback and will remain confidential. We will not use your video outside the purposes of this assessment unless we ask permission to do so.

Compress your video and email it to us using Google Drive:

• Google Drive is the easiest platform for us to review your video, and it's easy for you, too! There are two different ways to transfer your video:

• Transfer your video directly from your mobile device photo/video library to Google Drive, and then share the file with [email protected]. Here is a free tutorial (links to YouTube) on how to upload a video from an iPhone or iPad to Google Drive and share it via email.

• If filming with a camcorder or point-and-shoot camera with a video card: connect your camera or mobile device to a main computer and open the video editing software (iMovie on Mac is great). Compress the file by exporting the video to YouTube or Mobile format (file size should be in MB, not GB). Then send your video via Google Drive to: [email protected] along


with your completed questionnaire (see below). Here's a free tutorial (links to Youtube) on how to export a video from iMovie to Google Drive.

• If the tutorials above do not match the technology you own, visit YouTube and search for tutorials using the brand of your camera and ask how to upload it to Google Drive.

Submit this questionnaire along with your video: Copy and paste this questionnaire into a document and answer the questions. Submit the document with your video to guide the reviewer in the feedback process.

1. What is your teaching/training background in aerial arts or other movement areas?2. What are your goals for growth in aerial teaching? (You may choose from the following list

or describe your own focus: learning/teaching styles, classroom management, lesson planning, facilitating creative lessons, safety procedures such as spotting, working with specific populations, voice, and presentation skills.)

3. Please list any specific questions you have for your reviewer.

II. Allow 4 weeks to receive feedback: You will receive a document containing your feedback. We use a rubric to maintain consistency in our evaluation process. You'll then schedule an online chat with your reviewer to answer questions and get recommendations for future growth.

At this stage, the reviewer may suggest additional study in a specific area (anatomy, skills review and practice, etc.) Our goal is to help you become a stronger teacher, and each teacher's journey is completely unique. Please be prepared to take on additional tasks/study as needed to prepare you for completion of your certificate.

III. Implement your feedback: Implement feedback in your classes, allowing 2-3 months (minimum) for that process. If required by your reviewer, complete the areas of additional study.

IV. Submit your second video: For your second video, you will receive a second feedback document. This video is also used as final evaluation for the certificate. If you meet the standards, you will move forward in the process. If more skills need to be exhibited, or safety issues need to be corrected, additional teaching videos will be requested (visit our website for current rates). Should additional videos push you past the deadline to complete the program, you may file for an extension of up to 6 months (current pricing is on our website).

7. CPR Certification Complete RemotelyComplete a CPR Certification course, or send us a copy of your current CPR card as proof of completing this requirement. A number of organizations offer CPR classes in the USA:

• American Red Cross• American Heart Association• Local Fire Departments


• K-12 Public Schools• Colleges and University Recreation Departments

8. Completing the Born to Fly Certificate Complete OnlineUpon successful completion of your hours and the Remote Teacher Assessment Program (RTAP), please email the following:

• Application for Certificate• A copy of your current CPR card• Signed Affirmation Statement

You have one (1) year to complete the certificate process from the date of your first live training. This means that your final video was submitted prior to the one-year deadline, and that your final video received approval for the certificate.

Once we process your complete documentation, you will receive your Born to Fly™ Aerial Teacher Certificate and t-shirt! Your name and certificate type will also be posted on our website on the Certificate Holders page.

Extensions If you are not able to complete the certificate process in one year’s time, you have the option to purchase a 6-month extension for a fee (please visit our website for current rates). Reasons for not completing the process may include personal issues, or needing to submit an additional video for review.


"The course exceeded my expectations and goals. It made me a better teacher even for other disciplines I teach." ~ Lorelle S.

Certificate Renewal

Keep your knowledge up-to-date with the latest skills and teaching methods in the industry. Each initial certificate is good for 2 years from the date of completion. Renew your certificate using one of the following options.

Route A • Submit an RTAP video of your

teaching for review.• Complete 10 hours of a Born to Fly

approved Teacher Training Course as continuing education. This can be a combination of live and online training, and may include a Refresher Course at your current level/apparatus.

• Submit a current CPR card.

Route B • Advance to the next level on your

current apparatus.• Submit a current CPR card.

Route C • Take a training on a new apparatus.• Submit a current CPR card.

Missing the Renewal Deadline Should you miss the 2-year deadline for renewing your certificate and still wish to renew on the same apparatus, you may be required to repeat the 30-hour live teacher training on the same level and apparatus.

Non-Renewal Should you not wish to renew your certificate, you will no longer be permitted to use the Born to Fly™ Aerial Teacher designation on any marketing materials, business cards, websites, or any other print, online, or verbal platforms.


Continuing Education

Our program is rooted in lifelong learning. As the aerial field evolves, new research becomes available regarding best practices in training, teaching, anatomy, and curriculum. We strive to help you stay up-to-date in your teaching by offering multiple continuing education options, both live and online for your convenience.

Live Elective Courses We offer a variety of live elective courses that supplement the core trainings. These courses offer credit toward continuing education and certificate renewal. Visit our website for a complete list of courses offered.

Refreshers This is perfect for trainees who have already completed a course with us and want a refresher. Contact a Born to Fly provider one month prior to the live course that matches the course you have previously taken. If there are spots available, the provider may grant you a spot at a discounted rate. This offer is completely subject to the provider’s discretion, and may not be available through all providers.

Mentorships Completing a comprehensive mentorship with one of our mentors and receive continuing education credit toward certificate renewal. A total of ten (10) mentor hours will allow you to renew your certificate for a 2-year term of your certificate.


Candidate Handbook Affirmation Statement

I, _________________________________, certify that on this date, ____________________, that I have read and understand all of the terms and conditions outlined in the Born to Fly Aerial Teacher Trainings and Support Trainee Handbook. By signing below, I agree to abide by all the terms described herein.

I further understand that course offerings described in this manual are subject to change at any time based on the market, instructor availability, and unforeseen circumstances. I also understand that if I need to complete a certificate renewal course and cannot find the course I wish to take, I can always request private training or mentorship to complete my desired coursework.

_____________________________________Print Name

_____________________________________Signature

_____________________________________Date


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