Accredited Part-Time Studios 2025
Accredited Part-Time Studios
Celebrating the artistry, innovation and heart behind Australia’s leading part-time dance academies.
Across Australia, accredited part-time dance studios bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement, providing high-quality training that nurtures both technique and wellbeing. Each of these schools embodies the Dancetrain ethos of community, care and artistic integrity. From Sydney to Brisbane, their shared mission is clear — to build confident, capable dancers who love what they do and carry that joy for life.
ED5International |
Beau-Rock Ballet |
Kimberley Woodger Dance Academy |
The Premier Dance Academy
Chasing the Stage – Samantha Bigg Begins Full-Time Training at ED5International
By Danielle Brown
For emerging performer Samantha Bigg, stepping into full-time study at ED5International marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, one defined by passion, discipline and the pursuit of excellence. Guided by her mother, Maggie, Samantha’s decision to undertake the Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts reflects her unwavering commitment to developing as a triple-threat performer. After years of part-time training through ED5 Junior School, she’s now ready to embrace the rigours and rewards of full-time study at one of Australia’s most respected performing arts academies.
ED5International’s intensive two-year program is the only nationally accredited Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts in Australia. The curriculum covers dance, singing, acting, and essential industry skills, led by acclaimed professionals including Elena De Cinque, Mario De Cinque and William Forsythe. Together, they mentor students to develop the technical mastery, versatility and professionalism required to thrive in today’s entertainment industry.
For Samantha, choosing ED5International felt like a natural next step. Inspired by the success of current students and graduates — and by her own positive experiences within the ED5 community, she knew it was the right environment to grow.
“Being mentored by professionals and experienced teachers allowed me to have some insight into the industry,” she says. “Seeing how they talk about their experiences with dancing as a job inspired me to continue my journey as a performer to one day get to their level.”
Samantha’s teachers have long recognised her dedication and work ethic. ED5 faculty member Deb Meyrick describes her as a model student: “Samantha is the kind of student every teacher loves to have in class, hardworking, diligent, and always striving to be her best. Her versatility shines through her training from ballet to hip hop, as well as vocal performance, reflecting her commitment to becoming a well-rounded artist. This dedication and quiet determination have truly set her apart, providing a strong foundation for her future training. It’s no surprise she’s been accepted into the ED5International Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts, she’s earned it through her hard work and genuine passion for her craft.”
That blend of passion and perseverance is what drives Samantha as she looks ahead to the challenges of full-time training. “I know it will be a big step up,” she admits. “The course is intense and the expectations are high, but I can’t wait to share my journey with others who have the same passion and drive as I do.”
Samantha hopes to strengthen both her technical and artistic skills through the program, focusing on refining her dance technique, expanding her vocal range, and deepening her storytelling ability.
“At the end of my full-time study, I see myself as a confident and versatile performer, ready for the professional world,” she says. “My biggest goal is to perform in a musical, the storytelling, singing and dance are my passion. I want to be part of productions that move and inspire audiences.”
Supported by her family, Samantha approaches this new chapter with gratitude and determination. “My family has always been there for me,” she reflects. “They remind me to stay grounded and to remember why I love performing in the first place.”
Her advice to younger dancers is simple but powerful: “Be ready to work hard, stay open-minded and trust the process. Full-time training can be challenging, but if you’re passionate and determined, it can be one of the most exciting and transformative experiences of your life.”
With her strong foundation at ED5’s Part-Time School and the unwavering support of her family, Samantha Bigg is ready to chase her dreams and take her first confident steps toward a professional career in the performing arts. Her journey is a testament to the dedication, discipline and joy that define every true performer and a reminder that the stage belongs to those who never stop striving for excellence.
Beau-Rock Ballet – Lifelong Strength Through Classical Foundations
By Danielle Brown
For more than four decades, Jenny Guthry has quietly shaped generations of dancers through her leadership of Beau-Rock Ballet, a school known for its steady, compassionate approach to classical training. What began as a chance encounter has grown into a lifelong vocation.
“I was watching a class one day and the teacher had her back to the students,” Jenny recalls. “The kids weren’t following, and I just wanted her to turn around and connect. That moment made me realise I wanted to teach.”
After reaching out to a former colleague, Jenny began teaching at her local school. When her mentor retired, she took over and, 42 years later, she’s still there, continuing the tradition of excellence and care that has become the hallmark of Beau-Rock Ballet.
At the heart of Jenny’s philosophy is one simple truth: every child deserves the benefit of classical training, regardless of natural ability. Her classes are grounded in precision, patience, and an unwavering respect for the individual dancer’s body.
“My happiest moments are when I see improvement in children with various body issues, pronated ankles, poor posture, limited flexibility, even scoliosis,” she explains. “My approach is very careful, and over the years I’ve seen remarkable results. It’s about progress, not perfection.”
This layered approach reflects the Safe Dance principles that underpin Jenny’s teaching. She focuses on correct anatomical placement, safe strength development, and alignment before artistry, ensuring that her students grow with both confidence and longevity in their bodies.
Jenny describes herself as a foundation builder. “I’m happy to bake the cake,” she says with a smile. “If students want to pursue a professional career later, I’ll send them somewhere else for the icing. My role is to give them the structure and strength to do it safely.”
While Beau-Rock Ballet has produced students who’ve gone on to careers in dance and teaching, Jenny’s greatest pride comes from watching students discover the joy of dancing for life. Many return as adults, finding comfort and friendship in classes long after their performing years have ended.
“We have so many older students who now work full time but still come back to dance for fun,” she says. “That’s what makes it all worthwhile, seeing that love continue.”
Among her most memorable success stories is that of a former student diagnosed with severe scoliosis. Jenny recognised the issue early and adjusted her training to build core strength and alignment.
“She told me recently that without her ballet training, she’d be quite disabled by now,” Jenny shares. “That’s the kind of story that reminds you what dance can do beyond the studio — it’s not just art, it’s therapy and empowerment.”
Her quiet discipline and focus on individual progress embody a holistic philosophy, one that sees dance as a tool for personal growth, resilience and physical wellbeing.
Kimberley Woodger Dance Academy – Building Confidence, Creativity and Care Through Dance
By Danielle Brown
With more than 27 years of teaching excellence, Kimberley Woodger Dance Academy (KWDA) has become a trusted name in Queensland’s dance education landscape. Founded by Kimberley Woodger in 1998, the academy combines rigorous technique with a deep commitment to the wellbeing of each student, a balance that defines its reputation for excellence.
“Dance is about more than steps, it’s about confidence, creativity, and belonging,” says Kimberley. “Every child who walks through the door should feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow, not just as a dancer, but as a person.”
From tiny tots discovering rhythm to advanced students refining artistry, KWDA offers a broad curriculum that supports dancers of all ages and abilities. Classes include Classical Ballet (RAD), Jazz and Tap (CSTD), Contemporary, AcroDance, and Creative Dance, all taught by qualified, experienced educators, many holding ARAD credentials.
At the core of KWDA’s philosophy lies a layered Safe Dance approach, focusing equally on technical development, mental wellbeing, and self-discipline. Kimberley’s “build-up” method ensures that each dancer is challenged within realistic, age-appropriate boundaries.
“We focus on steady, safe progress,” Kimberley explains. “Confidence comes from building strength and understanding, not from rushing ahead. We want every dancer to leave class feeling proud, capable, and balanced.”
In 2025, KWDA unveiled its newly renovated studios in Coorparoo, three spacious rooms with sprung floors, mirrors, ballet barres, and air-conditioning. The bright, modern environment encourages focus and creativity while supporting physical safety.
What makes KWDA especially unique is the dynamic mother–daughter partnership at its heart. Kimberley and her daughter Katya work side by side, blending experience with fresh perspective. Together, they embody the continuity of care and passion that defines the academy’s spirit.
“Working together is such a gift,” says Kimberley. “Katya grew up in this studio, so she understands its heart. She brings a new energy and creative voice that connects beautifully with our younger students.”
Katya adds, “Mum has built something really special, a place that feels like home for so many. Being part of that legacy and helping it grow in new ways means the world to me.”
Beyond the studio walls, students participate in productions, competitions, and eisteddfods, learning teamwork, commitment and resilience. While the academy celebrates excellence, Kimberley ensures that every dancer, not just the elite few, feels valued and encouraged.
“Not every student will pursue a professional career, and that’s okay,” she says. “What matters most is that they develop a lifelong love of dance and the confidence that comes from working toward something they enjoy.”
The Premier Dance Academy – Everyone Deserves the Chance to Dance
By Danielle Brown
This year marks an extraordinary milestone for The Premier Dance Academy, celebrating 30 years of nurturing dancers under the guidance of Owner and Principal, Tania Whelan. Founded in 1995, the academy began as a branch of the Sayers Dance Centre, gifted to Tania by her mentor, the late Vivianne Sayers, a respected name in Brisbane’s dance education community.
Over the decades, Premier Dance has evolved into one of Brisbane’s most respected studios, known for combining professional-level training with a deep commitment to student wellbeing, balance and inclusivity.
At the heart of The Premier Dance Academy’s philosophy is Tania’s guiding belief that dance should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability, or experience. “Everyone should have a chance to dance,” she says simply. “Dance guides children and adults alike, it helps them express themselves, set goals, and gain confidence in their own bodies.”
“Dance students are always successful in life,” she says proudly. “They’ve learned how to set goals, work hard, take feedback, and execute with precision. Those lessons stay with them forever.”