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Course Overview

Course Code: CUA51520
CRICOS Code: 106317J

This nationally recognised qualification provides intense technical training to develop the young dancer with both technical and performance skills relevant for today’s dance industry.

The Diploma of Professional Dance reflects the role of dancers working or aspiring to work in professional dance companies, and as such, the expectations of the Diploma level is much higher than the Certificate IV. At this level students are expected to apply theory and creative skills in different situations. They will be required to display initiative and judgement in planning dance related activities. They now have autonomy in performing complex technical operations and are supported as they work towards being responsible for the planning, coordination and evaluation of the work of others within set parameters.

Our highly skilled trainers provide excellent training in classical ballet, contemporary dance, cultural dance, pointe work, choreographic skills and maintaining fitness through gym and conditioning classes.

Students are encouraged to continue their Vocational Training through the Royal Academy of Dance Examinations from Advanced Foundation through to Solo Seal. Students are also able to complete academic studies while undertaking the Diploma.

Perform and study in Australia’s most historic ballet schools. Located within the heritage-listed, National Theatre in St Kilda, students will have an opportunity to learn and grow as a young professional dancer within a working theatre.

DIPLOMA OF PROFESSIONAL DANCE

Throughout the course, students will develop their own artistic style and voice, exploring their creativity and learning how to choreograph their own work. They will also gain valuable insights into the business side of the dance industry, learning about marketing, networking, and other important skills that are necessary for success.

The program’s emphasis on performance will allow students to showcase their talents in a variety of venues and settings, including mainstage performances, theatres, festivals, and other public events. Additionally, the smaller cohort numbers provide students with close mentoring and support from their teachers, enabling them to receive personalised attention and guidance as they work towards achieving their goals. On completion of this program, students will be well-prepared to audition for ballet and contemporary dance companies, as well as to pursue other opportunities in the dance industry. With a strong foundation in technique, creativity, and business skills, graduates of this program will be equipped to excel in a wide range of dance-related careers.

Units of Study 6 core units plus 7 elective units (Total 13)
Duration 12 months full time

CORE UNITS

CUADAN531 Refine dance techniques
CUAPPR512 Develop sustainability of own professional practice
CUAPRF511 Refine performance techniques
CUAPRF513 Prepare for and perform in competitive environments
CUAWHS413 Incorporate anatomy principles into skill development
CUAWHS511 Maintain a high level of fitness for performance

ELECTIVE UNITS
CUADAN511 Refine ballet techniques
CUADAN512 Refine ballet performance skills
CUADAN513 Perform repertoire for corps de ballet
CUADAN514 Perform ballet solo variations
CUADAN515 Refine contemporary dance techniques
CUADAN518 Develop expertise in allied contemporary dance techniques CUADAN519 Refine pointe work techniques
CUADTM431 Design and conduct dance learning program (with cert IV) CUAFIM511 Source funding for projects
CUAMUP511 Apply theatrical make-up and hairstyles

2026 Start End #Weeks
Term 1 29 January 3 April 10

2 Weeks holiday
Term 2 20 April 26 June 10

2 Weeks holiday
Term 3 13 July 18 September 10

2 Weeks holiday
Term 4 5 October 4 December 9

Age 16 or over, or the completion of Year 10 or International equivalent. Acceptance is by audition only (followed by invitation to submit last academic results and interview). All Students will need to provide The National Ballet School with evidence of an LLN test in order to enrol.

Applicants must be at an Advanced Level from a Recognised Classical Ballet Syllabus.

AU/NZ student $15,900 (inc gst) per annum.
International students $20,000 (inc gst) per annum.

 

Funding Support

VET Student Loan Scheme and Scholarships may be available for eligible candidates.

The Eileen Tasker Scholarship

This Scholarship, named in honour of the Eileen Tasker OAM, The National Ballet School’s longest serving teacher. She has taught thousands of students since 1975 and is still imparting her knowledge, expertise and love of ballet to many more young dancers. The scholarship is awarded to a student who, in the opinion of the Director and Staff, has demonstrated their professional potential and can show that financial assistance would significantly benefit them. The funds are to be used primarily for the payment of tuition fees. The amount awarded is at the discretion of the Artistic Director.

The Gertrude Johnson Scholarship

This Scholarship, named in honour of The National Theatre’s founder is valued at $1000. It is awarded to a student who, in the opinion of the Director and Staff, has demonstrated their professional potential and can show that financial assistance would significantly benefit them. The funds are to be used primarily for the payment of tuition fees.

The Arrellah Indigenous Scholarship

The National Ballet School’s Arrellah scholarship is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Arrellah is an Aboriginal word meaning “Dancing Ground” and the scholarship was conceived by The National Ballet School’s Artistic Director Damian Smith. As a proud Wonnarua man of the Upper Hunter Valley, Damian received support in the early stages of his training from several generous individuals and scholarships. He is thrilled to offer this opportunity for full-time dance training and encourage two Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who show talent and passion for dance. Applications are welcomed from men and women aged 16yrs+.

To apply for the Arrellah Scholarship, each student should be nominated by their current dance school Director or teacher via an introduction letter including the reasons why they feel this student displays outstanding potential. Please send the letter and any supporting documentation to the Artistic Director, Mr. Damian Smith via damian.smith@nationaltheatre.org.au

Selected students may also have the opportunity to compete in Australian and International Competition, such as: YAGP, AICD, The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition, Kathleen Gorham Memorial Award, Ballet Teachers Workshop, Alannah Haines Australasian Awards, City of Sydney Eisteddfod just to name a few.

There are three production opportunities per year in our very own heritage-listed theatre and produced by our Artistic Director, Mr Damian Smith.

All Diploma students work with our professional stage crew understanding the roles and options used to create production scenes and the extensive OHS requirements for stage productions.

Students have the chance to express and explore their own creativity in our Choreographic Workshop with their fellow dancers.

WHY STUDY AT THE NATIONAL?

Located in the bayside suburb of St Kilda, the National Ballet School Melbourne aims to inspire a lifelong passion for dance. Students will experience the thrill of learning in our purpose-built studios and performing on The National Theatre’s very own heritage stage.

For over 80 years The National Ballet School has continued as a training facility in our purpose built studios located underneath the theatre where more than 16,000 young artists have developed their skills and explored their passion for dance.

Today, we continue to train small groups of dedicated students and nurture them on their preprofessional journey with a focus on mentoring, personalised training and versatility.