The school for achievers 
The Dance Curriculum
Students of Turning Pointe have the opportunity to undertake studies in Classical Ballet, Character, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Limber Stretch, Pilates, Acrobatics, Hip Hop and Vocal Coaching. Classes are conducted from 3 years of age to advanced students. Examination syllabi are taught in Classical Ballet and Character with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), Jazz and Tap with the Australasian Dance Association (ADA), as well as Tap with the Glenn Wood Tap Syllabus.
Classical Ballet
Classical Ballet is the most formal of the ballet styles and is synonymous for graceful, flowing, precise movements; strength and agility; and its ethereal qualities. From a very young age children learn the secrets behind this unique technique and over the years they master a discipline that offers artistry, self-esteem and the ability to work in a team. It is the foundation for all other dance disciplines and encourages young children to achieve their personal best in the understanding, appreciation and performance of dance.
Jazz Dance
Jazz dance is a classification shared by a broad range of dance styles. Jazz is a continually changing and evolving genre, and allows the body to work with flexibility, strength and dynamics to up-to-date music. The syllabus taught (ADA) encompasses all styles of Jazz such as Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Contemporary & Hip Hop, develops and understanding of rhythm, and creates a strong, technical and versatile dancer. Open Jazz (no syllabus classes) are also on offer and allows students to experience a variety of jazz styles in a relaxed setting.
Tap Dance
Tap dance is a form of dance characterized by a tapping sound that is created from metal plates that are attached to both the ball and heel of the dancer's shoe. Rhythmical and musical combinations, and coordination and intricate footwork are synonymous with entertaining style that is tap.
Contemporary Dance
Contemporary Dance describes a range of techniques using the body's natural lines and energy, allowing a greater range and fluidity of movement than conventional dance techniques. Contemporary dance is characterised by its versatility: it can be danced to almost any style of music, or united with other dance forms to create new styles of movement. Contemporary seeks to work with the natural alignment of the body, and is therefore safe and accessible for beginners. At the same time, the ease of movement promoted by contemporary dance technique allows experienced dancers to push new boundaries of body movement.
Pilates
Pilates exercises focus on posture, strength, and flexibility - all three are important components for any good dancer. The use of Pilates results in a strengthening of the upper body that enhances a dancer's balance, alignment of body parts, better posture while still or turning, and other spinal muscle alignments. For dancers, Pilates is beneficial for turnout and increases strength and power. With increased strength through correct placement, it minimizes injuries and enhances performance.
Acrobatics
Acrobatic training teaches flexibility, balance, strength, muscle control, and above all, discipline and concentration. Classes work on stretching and strengthening the body and learning tricks ranging from Forward Rolls to Forward Ariel’s. Students are taught in a safe environment with excellent teachers on matting until confidence is gained. Basic tumbling skills can be an added bonus for any dancer. A dancer will gain more flexibility and upper body strength, giving them a substantial advantage in today's demanding choreography. It is an excellent way to learn spatial awareness, an important element in partnering and ensemble work. Acrobatics classes are open to students from 10 years and above. Tumbling mats are supplied.
Baby Ballet (3 yrs)
This class is where it all begins. An introduction to movement and dance in a fun and creative environment, Baby Ballet is designed to create a love of dance for young students opening the door to the world of dance. Tapping into students own imaginations and creativity, classes are filled with music, dance and song.
Kinder Ballet (4 yrs)
Designed for Kindy or pre-prep children who are turning 4 years of age (by 1 August 2014), this specialty class combines the foundations of classical ballet and jazz, whilst building on many skills such as co-ordination, musicality, confidence, motor skills, concentration, and following instruction. Emphasis is placed on learning in a structured dance environment, building on a love and enjoyment of dance whilst learning steps, making lifelong friends and having fun.
Hip Hop
Hip-hop dance refers to a wide variety of social or choreographed dance styles primarily danced to hip hop music. Notably breaking, locking and popping. What separates hip hop dance from other forms of dance is that it is often `freestyle’ in nature. This is a fun an energetic class and appeals to both boys and girls alike.
Strengthening Classes
Classical Ballet Students from grade 5 up are also encouraged to attend a class one grade higher than theirs, at no extra charge - If the class is available. This is not compulsory, but strongly encouraged and it doesn't matter how often the student can attend. These classes are referred to as strengthening classes.
Vocal Coaching
Knowing how the singing instrument works, and knowing how to get it to work consistently is the sum of technical knowledge (Miller, 1996).
During vocal studies students will learn about how the voice works, how to care for it and have it work to their full potential. Just like any other aspect of performing, training and understanding the instrument is only a part of the picture. Learning to sing with confidence, engaging the audience and being at ease on the stage are all aspects that will be covered during the sessions.
Classes will cover: Breath management, Support mechanism, Posture, Expanding the mind, Listening to other singers, Resonance, Diction and articulation, Projection, Expressiveness, Musicality, Vocal health, Healthy speech, Stage presence and Self-confidence.
Theory Classes
Classical Ballet Classes
All students studying Classical Ballet from Grade 1 and up have to study Theory. It is compulsory. It is not good enough just to be able to do the steps. Students at Turning Pointe Dance Studios are encouraged to be "smart dancers"! During some Classical Ballet lessons a certain amount of time will be dedicated to learning and understanding ballet terms and steps. Students will require an exercise book, and it is the students’ responsibility to cover this book, look after it and bring it to every lesson. Homework may be issued at various times and it is important that this particular part of the child's training is encouraged at home.
Jazz & Tap Classes
Students will receive theory in each grade which they are required to know for their examinations. This theory must be retained each year, as knowledge is a perquisite for the next grade.
Students undertaking Student Teachers or Teachers examination will require an exercise book and an A4 display folder for theory and notes taken both in class and prepared at home. Homework tasks will the set and issued weekly.