'The Student Dancer' by Julia Buckroyd

During my research I came across 'The Student Dancer' by Julia Buckroyd. I was aware previous students has used Buckroyds work as a source of literature during their inquiry and initially I did not want to use it because of this reason. I wanted to find my own literature. However the read was compelling and all of the points Buckroyd mentions in her writing I could draw relation to from my own training. My career aspiration to help dancers in professional training stemmed from my own experiences or struggles however since further research into the topic I can see that I am not alone in this quest. It was so comforting to find such literature that I could relate to and draw from to support my inquiry process.

Although I have not finished reading the book I have begun to extract quotes which stand out to me and could be used to support my hypotheses. I also came across Sarah Hunt's BAPP blog and found that two quotes which were of great importance to her from 'The Student Dancer', were also ones that I had noted and highlighted myself.

"..by ignoring her own pain or tiredness or hunger...our problem student demonstrates how little she has internalised the capacity to take care of herself..." 
(The Emotional Uses of Dance Training, p.g. 43)

"Truly effective teachers are realistically positive, supportive and enthusiastic"
(The Dance Teacher, p.g. 67)

Sarah comments "I am really enjoying reading words from some one who I see eye to eye with in regards to vocational training and how it should be compared to the reality. She has interesting thoughts on the behaviour of the dance teacher themselves, not something I have previously looked into much depth but it is all adding more questions into my mind and creating more fuel for module 3."

I can completely agree with Sarah. I strongly believe that the influence and power of a Teacher is underestimated. As a training dancer you spend endless hours listening to your teachers instructions, feedback, guidance, taking on their professional knowledge and advice. If this is negative feedback, poor instruction, or even bad practice, this has a huge influence on the dancer who looks up to the teacher and relies on their supportive practice.

Here Sarah also supports this thinking. "I like the use of 'realistically' that Buckroyd has used.. in the real world, the majority of teachers are not positive and enthusiastic, often they can be supportive but I really feel the need and importance of creating an exciting and happy environment for all students to train in and it is the teacher's responsibility to do so."

Although so far my reading has not been directly related to my inquiry concerning the physical and psychological help available for injured dancers in professional training, Buckroyd makes significant comments on the need for support and good practice within vocational training which, in theory, should effectively decrease injury and the after effects of injury. I therefore, hold that 'The Student Dancer' will not only to support my inquiry and university study but also impact my personal outlook and professional practice.

After BAPP, one thing I will definitely do is keep researching and reading into my field of interest. You can always learn and develop yourself personally and professionally despite what stage you are at in your life.

I'm sure I will have more to say on this after further reading!