Dance qualifies as an approved subject for University Entrance and is an academic Scholarship subject at Level 3.
What should I have achieved?
While prior completion of Level 1 Dance is recommended for success, students with a demonstrated passion for the Performing Arts, whether within school or externally, may enrol pending approval from the supervising teacher.
What will I learn?
Repertoire (6 credits)
In Year 12 Dance repertoire, students learn three separate works within one dance style. This unit supports students to refine their technical skills and develop an in-depth understanding of a specific style. It promotes strong foundational technique and stylistic awareness. Assessed across the full academic year, this unit develops students’ ability to work consistently, remain motivated, and respond reflectively to critical feedback and feed-forward.
Theatre Dance (4 credits) and Cultural Dance (4 credits)
Students learn a group dance in a theatre dance style and perform a duet in a cultural dance style. The contrasting techniques and contexts of these styles help to develop students’ technical range and understanding of dance history and stylistic progression. Learning and performing with others prepares students to work collaboratively, develop positive social communication skills, and build resilience.
Choreography (4 credits)
Students work in a small group to create an original choreography. In this unit, students research cultural and historical stimuli, using this inquiry to develop a clear creative intention for their work. This unit promotes creativity, critical thinking, and respect for their own and others’ cultures, experiences, and perspectives.
Theory and External Examination
Theoretical learning includes an in-depth exploration of Dance History and its contemporary applications. Students develop strong dance literacy skills, enabling them to clearly articulate performance and choreographic choices and to critically analyse their own work and the work of others.
Additional opportunities include:
Performing in Ormiston Senior Arts Evening showcases.
Learning from professional guest tutors.
Participate in workshops led by industry leaders and professional dance companies (optional).
Attending live, professional dance performances (optional).
How will this course be assessed?
Assessment includes four internal standards and one external exam.
The total amount of credits offered is 22. Additional standards at Level 2 and Level 3 may be available through extracurricular opportunities.
What are the course costs?
There are no mandatory course fees.
Optional workshops and performances may incur additional costs, subject to caregiver approval.
Potential pathways:
Performer (dancer, singer, musician, model)
Choreographer or artistic director
Dance teacher (studio, school, company)
Dance company management or production
Arts administration or theatre management
Dance photographer/videographer
Costume/clothing designer
Dance therapist or dance medicine professional
Fitness industry (personal trainer, yoga, Pilates)
Marketing (digital/social media or for dance companies)
Transferable skills you will develop:
Analytical and interpretive skills
Coordination, flexibility, and mobility
Communication, teamwork, and social skills
Confidence and creative thinking
Cultural competence and self-discipline
Memory, problem-solving, and focus
Safe risk-taking and spatial awareness
Stress management and emotional resilience