Kinder Dance Classes

The Kinder Dance program, which is designed especially for preschoolers from the ages of 3-5 years, involves a basic introduction to music, dance and singing. The little ones absolutely love the selection of popular children's music, fairy wings and the fun movement, which is incorporated into each dance class. Kinder Ballet is offered to young members of the school, and takes an exciting trip into fairyland! With a zap of their magic wands and dressed in their favourite fairy dress, children enter the world of classical ballet. Students learn the positions of the feet as well as many other fundamental technical requirements. All of the Kinder dance classes which are offered in both the morning's and afternoon's including Saturdays, are designed to keep the children stimulated, fit and most importantly, ensure they have a lot of fun!

New Pre-Primary and Primary in Dance

From 2009, the Royal Academy of Dance is replacing its current Pre-Primary and Primary syllabi with two new syllabi which have been devised to provide a strong foundation for future dance training that is appropriate and relevant to young children of today. Fun to do and rewarding to teach, these syllabi help to develop children’s physical skills, stamina, creativity, and expression and musicality using a range of sounds and musical styles. Narelle and Natalie have both been trained by the R.A.D. to teach the new syllabus which will be implemented at the school in 2010. Students who are enrolled in Pre-Primary/Primary Ballet classes will be taught this new exciting syllabus.

R.A.D. Classical Ballet

The Royal Academy of Dance is the largest examining and teacher education organisation for classical ballet in the world. Narelle Aspinall is a registered teacher of the R.A.D., and teaches the syllabus as part of the classical program at the school. Children have the opportunity to enter in examinations, which allow students to work towards attainable goals, however they are not compulsory. Students who for various reasons, may not wish to take a formal examination can opt instead to study ballet as means of enjoyment in which to gain discipline, strength, posture and grace. The school also holds regular seminars conducted by international and national guest teachers who bring to the school a wealth of knowledge and professional experience, which is then passed onto students. Through Narelle's dedication and strong emphasis on technique the school boasted a 100% rate of Distinction for all students entered in R.A.D. Graded examinations in 2009. Students who wish to enter Ballet, Demi-Character, Contemporary or National sections at eisteddfods must complete examination classes.

F.A.T.D. Jazz and Tap (Examination Classes)

Throughout the year student's study the Federal Association of Teachers of Dance Modern Jazz and Tap syllabus, in which they also have an opportunity to undertake examinations. The syllabus works towards forming a strong basis for students Jazz and Tap technique, and also promotes greater strength and flexibility. The school regularly stages workshops with F.A.T.D. teachers and examiners, which aim to perfect and polish their examination work. Over the years students have excelled in F.A.T.D. examinations with the majority of students receiving the highest marks awarded by the association. Students who wish to participate in either Jazz/Tap examinations must enrol in at least one ballet lesson per week. Furthermore, students who wish to enter in Jazz and Tap Solos/Duos/Trios must complete examination classes.

Jazz (Open Class)

All the latest music, all the latest steps and definitely one of the most popular dance classes at the school.  Our jazz classes incorporate a range of jazz styles from hip-hop through to traditional jazz. All of these styles and are carefully taught by our specialist jazz teachers who are highly experienced and stress correct body placement and conscientious application of jazz technique in every class.  Our classes all begin with a thorough centre warm-up and continue with turning, jumping and dance combinations that make for a fast paced and exciting class.  Our jazz students are challenged, learn to move with speed and work hard to become versatile, technically strong and fit young dancers. Open Jazz classes are offered at all age levels, from beginners to advanced. Both teachers and students are kept up to date with the latest moves and choreography through regular workshops conducted by professionals from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

Tap

Learning tap develops a good sense of rhythm, a good listening ear, great coordination and fast footwork. All of our classes master tapping skills appropriate to the age group and beyond. Learning tap at the school is ultimately a fantastic challenge for kids who enjoy the excitement, rhythm, skill and high energy required for learning this dance form. Tap examinations are offered for interested students and for those wanting to take tap to the next level. The school conducts tap classes, which offer a wide range of different tapping styles from the traditional 'Fred Astaire' style through to the latest ‘Contemporary' style of tapping today. Our classes are designed to cater for the beginner through to the most advanced tapper. Narelle, Jay and Janelle work towards achieving a high standard in both Tap examination and performance work, with many students and groups receiving outstanding results at eisteddfods and festivals.

Contemporary

Contemporary dance based on the fundamental technique of classical ballet training. Students who are taking at least one ballet class per week are eligible to attend our Contemporary classes. Based on classical technique and a contemporary style classes are held for students from junior through to advanced levels.