FORM academy

FORM academy

FORM (foundations of refined movement) is the new education home by Little Mandarin. We focus on alignment, intelligent strength, and clear teaching methods. Whether you are deepening your practice or stepping toward teaching, this is for you.

Mat and Reformer Pilates Teacher Training

FORM Academy by Little Mandarin · Educator: Nursah

Overview

Step into your teaching journey with FORM Academy’s comprehensive Mat + Reformer Pilates Teacher Training. Led by Nursah, a physiotherapist and experienced educator, this program blends self-paced online learning with immersive face-to-face training at Little Mandarin Camberwell studio.

Whether you’re new to teaching or looking to deepen your practice, this course offers:

  • Blended anatomy: online lectures, in-person labs, and self-study workbooks

  • Prenatal and postnatal Pilates integration

  • 1:1 mentoring options (discounted rates)

  • Assistant teaching pathway with LM instructors

  • Studio access for supervised self-practice

  • Peer support via WeChat / Facebook / WhatsApp communities

What You’ll Learn

  • Classical and contemporary mat repertoire

  • Full reformer pilates repertoire (from foundations to advanced)

  • Anatomy and biomechanics for Pilates

  • Specific populations: injuries, older adults, prenatal/postnatal

  • Cueing, sequencing, and class planning

  • Teaching group vs private classes

  • Professionalism, safety, AusActive standards

Format

Blended Delivery:

  • Online modules: anatomy, theory, and foundations

  • Face-to-face intensives: 3 weeks (Tue + Wed each week) next intake dates: Mar 17 & 18, Mar 24 & 25, Mar 31 & Apr 1, 2026

  • Location: Little Mandarin Camberwell Studio

Logbook Requirements

  • 20 hours of class observation (signed by class instructor)

  • 40 hours of practice teaching

  • 60 hours of self-practice

What We Offer

  • Unlimited group Pilates classes across all 3 Little Mandarin studios for the duration of the training

  • Printed and digital manuals

  • Access to studio space for self-practice and logbook hours

  • Personalised guidance and small-group learning environment

Face-to-Face Weekly Schedule

Week 1: Mat Foundations

  • Full Mat Pilates repertoire

  • Assessing and Screening the Pilates client & Postural Analysis

  • Mat Class Planning

  • Get to know your core muscles

Week 2: Reformer Foundations

  • Reformer Repertoire

  • Manual Corrections, Structuring warm-up & cool-down sequences

  • Reformer Class Planning

  • Get to know your arm and leg muscles

Week 3: Teaching for Special Populations

  • Reformer Repertoire

  • Prenatal, postnatal and beyond

  • Common Injuries & Modifications

  • Linking Anatomy

  • Business of Pilates, Certification and exam requirements, Closing celebration 🍰

Online Modules (Self-paced)

  • Intro to Pilates History, FORM by Little Mandarin

  • Principles of Pilates & Class formats

  • Anatomy & Physiology for Pilates Teachers - We keep things fun & practical!

  • Special Populations: elderly, prenatal/postnatal, injury considerations

Assessments

  • Theory Exam: Anatomy, Pilates principles, professionalism and safety, modifications & contraindications

Certification & Accreditation

  • Aligned with AusActive criteria:

    • Professional conduct

    • Client service standards

    • Health, safety & welfare compliance

  • Certificate awarded upon completion of contact hours, logbook, exams, and professional requirements

What’s Included

  • Anatomy and movement manuals

  • Mat and Reformer training guides

  • Online video library access

  • Workshop handouts

Community & Mentoring

  • Access to FORM instructor group chats

  • Mentorship support (optional)

  • Outstanding graduates may be offered teaching opportunities at Little Mandarin

FAQ

Do I need prior teaching experience?

No. This training is open to dedicated students and Pilates lovers with at least 6 months of regular practice.

Can I do the course if I work full-time?

The face-to-face labs require 6 full days (3 Tuesdays + Wednesdays). Online content is self-paced and can be completed on evenings/weekends.

Is mentoring included?

Mentoring is optional and offered at discounted rates with our educator team.

What if I miss a session?

We recommend full attendance. However, makeup options may be arranged on a case-by-case basis (fees may apply).

Is this course recognised?

Yes. This course is in progress to be formally recognised by AusActive and PPA (Pilates Professionals Australia). Recognition will be finalised as soon as possible and is expected to be confirmed before the course begins. Please consult Jamie for the most up-to-date status if formal accreditation is essential to your goals.

Will I be confident and capable of teaching after this course?

Yes. By the end of this training, you’ll have hands-on experience, practical tools for sequencing and cueing, and the confidence to lead both group and private classes. You’ll gain support from our educator team, access mentoring, and apply your skills through real-world teaching opportunities. Once you've completed the logbook hours, online modules, assessments, and demonstrated professionalism, you'll be fully prepared to begin teaching, and outstanding graduates may be invited to join the Little Mandarin instructor team.

Apply Now

Spaces are limited to ensure personalised coaching.

To apply:

  1. Submit a short intro about your movement background

  2. Indicate preferred intake period

  3. We’ll contact you to confirm next steps

Unable to make it for this intake? Please fill in the form to let us know your preferred studio, day and time. We will consider your suggestion when we schedule our next course.