Dance also teaches my children that over time and through consistent effort they will achieve notable results and gain confidence, another valuable transferable skill. Both have beautiful posture which will hold them in good stead for the remainder of their lives. I have no expectations or desire for either to become professional dancers, if it is not their dream, however I still insist on qualified teachers to see them through their daily paces of dance training. Why? Because their bodies are young and need to be trained in correct alignment, to ensure a healthy maturation into adulthood. Their self-esteem’s are also very vulnerable so it is imperative they are being trained by qualified teachers who understand this.
There are of course some negative aspects of dance training and they range from peer pressure, favouritism, elitism or snobbery, an unhealthy demand for perfectionism, over sexualisation and a pursuit of winning trophies rather than the pursuit of expressing yourself through dance.
In regards to over sexualisation of children, I have known teachers who choreograph such routines and they are not bad people or believe what they are doing is causing our young girls harm. I think if we approach changing the industry with this in mind, through education rather than attack, we may be able to make change.
Favouritism is a tough one because your children can have a warped perception of what is taking place in the classroom. Teaching our children how to look at the big picture can be a great benefit.
Elitism and snobbery, I believe is just a mask for insecurity and should be faced with courtesy.
Beware of getting caught up in the ‘more is best’ campaign when it requires your child to do every class and participate in every opportunity. We are still our childs best advisors and sometimes you may find yourself having to impose restrictions, even if it is simply for rest and time with friends outside of dance. Until they reach 15-16 years of age it is very difficult to know what they will do with their careers or if dance will play a part. There is no straight line to a successful career in dance, however there is an extraordinary high burn-out rate from children pushed too hard during the 10-14 year age group.
The best way to combat the negative sides of the industry is to choose a qualified dance teacher. Unfortunately the dance industry is still unregulated so someone who has no skills or training in dance can open a dance school anywhere in Australia. The easiest way to determine if your teacher is trained is if they put your children through exams. An amazing career in dance is not enough, a firm foundation of the abilities of each age group and how to motivate them is essential.
Beware the Competition only schools. A competition based school is one that focusses purely on winning at dance competitions, they look amazing but watch closely and you will notice that students only kick on one leg and turn to one side. To train a dancer this way is not safe, the body should be worked in balance. Training a dancer this way will most likely lead to injuries. The best way to view a school is during open week held at the end of each term. You can meet fellow parents of children who are the same age and both of you can watch class. This visit will offer an immediate response as to whether this is the right place for you and your child.
Remember with any skill, practice and commitment are essential. To dance with correct technique, musicality and expression takes time, many years, so the pusuit of the art is as important as the end goal. Both my girls have gone through periods where they did not want to go to class. During these times I recommend reducing the pressure, discuss your childs reluctance with his/her teacher and maybe even look at skipping the exam that year. This is the path I chose for my oldest child, it only took 6 months before her heart was back in the game. No one can love what they do all the time, learning how to cope during those times is extremely valuable.
We have put together an extensive list of fabulous part-time schools from around the country and any of them would be very happy to discuss your childs journey in dance .
I am also here to help if you have any questions about dance schools, starting your child in dance or long term issues you are having. We are very fortunate to have an array of highly experienced, well-educated professionals who have yet to be fronted with a topic they could not help with.
New South Wales
Sydney – Lower North Shore
Tanya Pearson Academy
Unit D, 12 Frederick Street St Leonards NSW 2065
tanyapearsonacademy.com.au
+61 (02) 9062 3241
The Tanya Pearson Academy offers elite level classical ballet training for students of all ages, from Tiny Tots through to Young Adults. The Academy, founded by Tanya Pearson OAM in 1971, is renowned for its long history of excellence in classical ballet training.
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Sydney – Eastern Suburbs
The Teresa Johnson Ballet School
• St George’s Anglican Church245 Glenmore Road, Paddington 2021
• St John’s Anglican Church120 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst 2010
• East Sydney Community Arts CentreCorner of Burton and Palmer Streets, Darlinghurst 2010
teresajohnsonballet.com
0410 423 598
The Teresa Johnson Ballet School, established in the eastern suburbs of Sydney in 2000, aims to pass on the love of dance to young children and inspire them to express themselves through the wonderful art form of ballet, as well as the dance styles of jazz and contemporary. We take pride in our excellent teaching faculty who are committed to ensure that our students reach their full potential.
The Teresa Johnson Ballet School as a dance studio, aims to develop each students artistry, technique, musicality, and joy of dance to its fullest extent.
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Sydney – Inner West
ED5 International
Bakehouse Lane, Cnr of George St & Allen St, NORTH STRATHFIELD
ed5international.com.au/juniorschool
02 9746 0848
Elena and Mario De Cinque founded ED5INTERNATIONAL in 1991. They have a lifetime of expertise and knowledge and have worked with many generations, producing impeccable talent for the entertainment industry. The teachers are Sydney’s most recognised performing arts specialists and our priority is to keep all students connected for their future careers. Held in a 5 Star studio complex, ED5INTERNATIONAL is built on excellence, honesty, integrity and professionalism. Students benefit from a supportive family environment where the entire team cares about the progress, achievements and experience of each student. Enter our famous red doors and begin your ED5 journey.
Honeybrook School of Dancing
Balmain
honeybrookdance.com
0411 288 765
The school, started by two sisters Elaine and Shirley Honeybrook, has been operating in the Balmain area for over 75 years. Miss Shirley’s daughters, Leanne and Donna, along with their families now run the school. The close family like atmosphere means most students see the school like a second home. We offer classical ballet (RAD), tap, jazz, singing, drama, acrobatics, musical theatre and a boys class. We pride ourselves on individual attention given to all our students, whether it’s for fun, friendships or going into the Industry.
The McDonald College After Hours Program
17 George St, NORTH STRATHFIELD
mcdonaldcollegeafterhours.com.au
02 9752 0600
The McDonald College runs a large and dynamic After Hours Program that caters to students within the College and to external students within the wider community who share a love of dance and performance. The program offers engaging and diverse classes including preschool ballet, RAD classical ballet, contemporary, READY SET DANCE, lyrical, hip hop/funk, eisteddfod groups, musical theatre (acting, singing, dancing), and private music tuition. The program is suitable for ages 3 and up.
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Sydney – Outer West
Epiphany Dance & Co
6a/1267 The Horsley Drive, WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164
epiphanydance.com.au
0439 000 132
Epiphany Dance & Co. provides a dance program that enables a student to learn all genres of dance including ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre, hip hop and acrobatics. We combine structured classes with freedom of expression and allow students to explore their artistry and artistic flair through a focus on improvisation, choreographic training, prop/set design and production logistics. Throughout the year, students are exposed to several dance focused classes along with makeup and costuming exposure and live performance opportunities. All students are involved in a theatrical end of year production consisting of 2 or 3 Acts, they work with choreographers, designers, videographers, photographers, and stagehands to produce a large live show.
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Sydney – Outer South
KRS Dance
6/9 – 11 Ethell Road, KIRRAWEE
krsdance.com.au
02 9545 4004
A vibrant dance studio in Kirrawee, Sutherland Shire with a focus on dance technique and nurturing a love of dance. Both recreational and performance programs have developed talented dancers and choreographers. Our strong RAD classical ballet program produces successful exam results, and mentoring and performance opportunities. Also on offer are jazz, contemporary and lyrical (modern), tap, acrobatics, stretch and technique, hip hop, boys only hip hop classes and we also proudly teach the babyballet preschool program, all in a friendly and nurturing environment. Our Pre-Professional class has proved successful as a springboard into the industry and full time dance.
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Newcastle
National College of Dance Junior Academy
Cnr Young and Lloyd Roads, LAMBTON
nationalcollegeofdance.com
02 4952 9294
Be inspired, feel an individual and develop your career with the National College of Dance. Renowned for creating unique, strong and versatile dancers, our vision is to provide students with an environment where students can feel free to explore their passion and artistry while receiving world-class training. With a focus on working with choreographers, students receive ongoing support, career planning and mentoring and a proven history of students with outstanding careers placement. All while learning the key elements of having a career in a professional industry.
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South Australia
gwb studios
50 Sir Donald Bradman Drive, Adelaide, SA, Australia, South Australia
gwbstudios.com
08 8361 8888
Prepare for the world stage
An elite dance program located in South Australia, delivering the highest quality classical technique, physical and emotional tools, whilst fostering creativity, artistry and passion for dance.
Acting/Mime for Dance
Character
Classical Extension Program
Contemporary,
Demi Pointe and Pointe Technique
Onsite Dance Physiotherapist
Progressing Ballet Technique
Rambert Contemporary Program
Reformer Pilates
Repertoire
SACE Dance
Stretch & Conditioning
Vaganava Ballet
Certificate III in Dance – CUA30120
Certificate IV in Dance – CUA40120
With students choice of Classical & Contemporary or Musical Theatre streams.
After-School, Full Time and Classical Extension Programs
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Queensland
Brisbane – East
Bayside Dance
184 Melville Terrace, MANLY
baysidedance.com.au
0402 927 688
Located in Wynnum-Manly, Bayside Dance encourages enjoyment of dance through creativity, strong technical training and a nurturing environment. We have three studios and multiple dance styles on offer for students from ages 2 to adult, including ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, acro, musical theatre, hip hop and boys-only classes. The teachers at Bayside Dance have a vast range of experience across disciplines. Our collective approach is to share our love of dance while being supportive and encouraging.
Kimberley Woodger Dance Academy
25 Junction Rd, MORNINGSIDE
kwda.com.au
07 3399 7943
KWDA aims to provide a friendly atmosphere for children of all ages to learn different types of dance. We provide a wide range of classes for all ages and abilities in purpose built professional dance studios. Some of our achievements include; students being accepted into, The Australian Ballet School (on a full scholarship), Queensland Ballet Company, Youth American Grand Prix NYC Finals, Royal Ballet Summer School, Houston Ballet Academy Scholarship and many more.
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Brisbane – North
The Premier Dance Academy
Clayfield College Sports Complex, Cnr Sandgate & Wagner Rd, CLAYFIELD QLD 4011 & Level 1, Milton Village 12 – 36 Baroona Rd MILTON
thepremierdance.com
07 3369 1133
Since 1994, Premier Dance Academy has been offering children the opportunity to explore the arts and discover their potential—whether for fun, fitness, or pursuing a future career in dance. We provide a wide range of classes, including classical ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, hip hop, singing, musical theatre, and acrobatics, with a specialised Junior Dancers program for children as young as 16 months up to Prep age. Optional assessments are available in RAD Classical Ballet, Comdance Jazz and Tap, and high school students can pursue a Certificate III in Dance through Empowerdance. Our teachers are registered, certified, and many are former professional dancers. All staff hold current Blue Cards and First Aid certificates.
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Victoria
Melbourne – South
Beau-Rock Ballet School
Black Rock Civic Centre, Cnr Balcombe Road and College Grove,
Beaumaris Girl Guides Hall, Martin Street,
Beaumaris Community Centre, Reserve Road
Beaumaris Sea Scout Hall, Bodley Street,
beau-rockballet.com.au
0412 225 538
The school is one of the oldest ballet schools in Victoria and is well known for producing carefully trained students. We offer a wide range of classes including classical ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, lyrical and hip-hop, with exam and eisteddfod opportunities. Catering for the once a week student, the dedicated hobbyist and those aiming for a career in dance or dance teaching. We foster a happy, non-competitive environment, because above all dancing should be fun.
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