I can't find a class time to suit me. What can I do? If you are having trouble finding a class time to suit you in your choice of dance style, contact Miss Jodie to see if there are other options available. If there is enough demand from students, it is sometimes possible to include an additional class into the Timetable.Missed a classes. Can you attend a make-up lesson? Yes! If there is an alternative weekly class available students may attend that in addition to their normal class to 'make-up' for any missed lessons. If there is not an alternative class available students are welcome to attend a completely different dance class or a class a level above or below their normal class. The students really love to try out the 'big kids' class and it is great for them to see what they will be learning in the future. On the other hand it never hurts a student to re-visit a grade they have already completed as they can work on correcting some of their basic technique.I'm an Adult Beginner. Do you have classes to suit me? Yes! There are several Adult dance classes to choose from depending on the style of dance that interests you. Adult Beginner Classes are suitable for beginner students through to students who danced when they were younger but are a bit rusty. All exercises are demonstrated at a pace that is easy to pick up, while allowing students to develop basic technique and build muscle strength.For some adults going to the Gym to exercise is about as exciting as reading the Yellow Pages, so joining a Dance Class is the perfect soloution. Adult Beginners may not have brilliant technique or perfect bodies, but they have the heart to try something they love and discover many others just like themselves having fun in class. Read more about joining Ballet Class as an Adult. A dance syllabus ensures the student is taught the fundamental principals of their chosen dance style. It gives them the 'building blocks' of technique which are essential to students studying Ballet, Tap, Jazz and National Character. It gives the student core stability and enables them to progress to an advanced standard. A Syllabus allows teachers and students to work towards a common goal at a steady pace as students have the chance to consolidate their training and increase their proficiency. When students participate in 'Open' or classes without set exercises, they tend to be preoccupied with remembering steps and keeping in time with the music, whereas with a familiar syllabus they can focus on their technique and artistry. How do I know if my child is being taught correctly? As Principal, Jodie Spicer is a parent herself, she understands how difficult it can be to help your child choose a fun and healthy activity without having to worry about the quality of the tuition they will receive as well. As a member of one of Australia's most reputable and respected dance associations the F.A.T.D., you can rest assured that she have undergone extensive teacher training and qualifications. This is not a syllabus that can be purchased over the internet and taught by anybody without qualifications or experience.The F.A.T.D. holds regular dance seminars and workshops ensuring that teaching standards remain high and up to date. Safe Dance practices are now a compulsory part of the F.A.T.D. training, incorporating not only First Aid but also Anatomy for Dance, physiology and psychology as part of their qualifications. Regular examinations ensure that the students are being taught correct fundamental dance technique. All the teaching staff at Dance Magic Academy are fully qualified and industry professionals bringing a wealth of knowledge and cutting edge dance technique to their classes. They are all truely passionate about encouraging students to discover and share their own passion for dance within a fun and healthy environment. Should my child participate in exams? F.A.T.D. Federal Association of Teachers of Dancing Australia, syllabus embraces Classical Ballet, Tap & Jazz providing a well rounded education in dance. The F.A.T.D. is one of the largest and longest established associations in Australia which offers graduated continuity from beginner students through to professional performance levels in addition to teaching accreditation. Founded during the 1930's, this syllabus is well structured on sound technical principles and recognised universally as amongst the highest standard of its kind in the southern hemisphere.Whilst it is not compulsory for students to participate in annual F.A.T.D. Examinations, I do encourage participation as it is a rewarding experience and an opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability as well as have their personal achievements acknowledged. Exams ensure the student is being taught in a systematic manner and as they are assessed by independent examiners their dance studies are formally recognised. Studying a syllabus and participation in exams also gives a concrete indication of a student's progress through marks and grades. Working towards the goal of examinations motivates students, and working on set exercises within a restricted time frame always brings about a huge amount of progress as well as building confidence in the dancer. The examination process is an enjoyable experience and provides both students and parents with constructive feedback on their progress. All candidates receive a written report and upon successful completion, a Certificate and Badge will be presented to them on stage at the end of year Concert. Due to current Child Protection Laws it is illegal to film or photograph children under the age of 18 years without prior written consent of a legal guardian. What this basically means is that video filming or photography of students is not allowed. You may take a still photograph of your own child only, unless you have received permission from another parent to photograph their child. Personal video filming of classes or performances at Dance Magic Academy is not allowed at any time. These rules are in place for the protection of all the students at the Academy. Please adhere to these rules for the safety of our most precious assets, our children! Is it compulsory to be in the Concert? It is not compulsory for students to participate in the concert. Some students join dance classes just for fun and fitness with no desire to step foot on stage, however most young students begin dance classes with visions of being in the spotlight, receiving thunderous applause from an adoring audience. It can be a little scary stepping on stage for the first time, but when students perform to an audience they gain a confidence that they may not develop elsewhere. It is very exciting, offers a personal goal for all their hard work and can be a magical climax to the year. Ultimately it is about the joy of performing, just try your best and go out there and HAVE FUN!Do we get to keep the costumes? Some costumes will remain the property of Dance Magic Academy but other costumes will remain your own to keep. We always have a Photo Day just before the end of year Concerts where all students have the opportunity to have their photo taken wearing all the fabulous costumes in group or individual poses. This is a great way to remember how fantastic the students look without having a wardrobe full of costumes that they quickly outgrow. |