Aim
The Ignite Dance Academy at Shailer Park State High School provides selected students with industry-standard technical training and performance opportunities, extending learning in curriculum dance. The program bridges high school and tertiary or pre-professional dance pathways, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for further study or a career in dance.
The Academy nurtures students’ goals and wellbeing in a safe, supportive environment, encouraging excellence both individually and as part of a team. Students develop technical and expressive skills, dance knowledge, confidence, teamwork, and leadership abilities.
Overview
The Ignite Dance Academy targets students who are skilled and passionate about dance, with a strong drive to learn, dedication, discipline, and the ability to work collaboratively. The program consists of two ensembles, grouped by age and ability, and exposes students to a range of technical training and choreography across multiple styles, including hip hop, contemporary, jazz, musical theatre, lyrical, and tap.
Students also benefit from industry-standard tuition, specialist workshops, and performance opportunities, including:
Creative Generation – State Schools on Stage
Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge (BPAC)
DanceLife Unite National Dance Championships
Beenleigh Quota International Dance Competition
Gold Coast Eisteddfod
Shailer Park SHS Showcase and Academic Awards Evening
Parades and community-based performances
Student Choreography Challenge
Sydney trip to compete at DanceLife Unite Nationals (for qualifying students)
Regular Academy meetings support students’ academic progress, wellbeing, and performance development to achieve positive outcomes across all areas.
Entry Conditions
To be considered for the Ignite Dance Academy, students must:
Have prior training in one or more dance styles
Choose curriculum dance as an elective
Maintain an attendance record above 95%
Achieve Excellent or Very Good in behaviour and effort across all subjects
Commit to paying school and Academy levies in full by Week 9, Term 1
Academy Levy
Students accepted into the Ignite Dance Academy are required to pay an annual levy of $375, covering:
Tuition, choreography, and workshops with industry professionals
Eisteddfod/competition entry fees and competitor passes
Transport to most events
Participation in the Student Choreography Challenge
Costume hire (partial coverage)
Costume bag hire
Audio purchase and editing
Levies do not include:
Ignite Dance Academy uniform
Participation in Creative Generation – State Schools on Stage
Individually purchased costume items
Additional Student Choreography Challenge expenses (costumes, props, audio)
Stockings, footwear, hair and make-up items
Nationals (DanceLife Unite) expenses in Sydney
For Academy updates and information, students and parents/carers must join Team App – Ignite Dance Academy Shailer Park.
For further information, please contact the Ignite Dance Academy Director.