Thankyou so much for your reply, it really helps to have someone just explain the whole thing clearly.

I certainly don't think I am good enough to compete at a pro level yet, but it helps to know what the routes are for the future.

I think I must compete as an amateur first if I find a partner and then see what happens from there, although teaching would be my last resort as I really just want to perform.

I have posted ads on various sites so hopefully something will manifest.

Thank you again.

One of the key things is your age...

There are numerous ladies in the over 40 age bracket that are looking for partners ( again, major metro areas give more opportunity )..

Also, the country in which you reside ,will have a bearing on your choices.

One other thing, it is possible to revert to Amat. status after teaching as a pro ( and to some extent, competing ) I had a former student that I was training as a pro. and he reverted to Amat. status ( I,m not suggesting that you do that )

make your plight known on .. Dance Forums.. it has an extensive ballroom readership .

Thank you terence for you comments. I really appreciate it.

I am 28 and from the UK, I have actually placed an ad on this and other websites, so now just waiting to hear. I have also contacted potential partners too.

Although by no means I think I am the best dancer out there, I know I have the potential and will to compete at a high level. As only in the space of a year I have gone from Bronze to Gold and also from beginner to Intermediate level. and I plan to work very hard to be at pre champ/amateur level very soon.

Hopefully with the right partner that will happen soon. I think just being very new to this world, I keep hearing conflicting things from teachers and dancers I know, so I never know what route to follow.

Follow your heart !

If your teacher is negative on the idea of you finding an amateur partner, then the first thing you need to do is to find a teacher who sees your dancing as important as her pocketbook.