Victorian Ballet School Darebin, established in 1977, is a prestigious ballet school located in the vibrant suburb of Northcote. Formerly based in Fitzroy, the school has recently moved to a new brightly painted and well-appointed dance studio at Level 1, 86 South Crescent (corner of Victoria Road). The school's convenient location is easily accessible by public transport, adjacent to Dennis Railway Station, and in proximity to local schools, a nursery, and food outlets.
With a deep respect for classical dance traditions, Victorian Ballet School Darebin strives to create a progressive, dynamic, and friendly environment for its students. The school focuses on helping students become the best dancers they can be by providing individualised tuition tailored to their unique needs and learning objectives.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum for dancers of all ages and skill levels. For kinder-aged children, a special course called “Dance Beginnings” is provided, allowing them to develop motor skills, self-expression, and discover the joy and creativity of dance. Prep students are introduced to an introductory dance course that lays the foundation for their journey into dance. This programme incorporates listening skills, teamwork, self-confidence, and fundamental ballet terms and steps in preparation for future dance programmes.
Primary level students are taught under the Classical Dance Education Centre Syllabus (C. D. E. C), which has been developed specifically for the 5 to 9-year-old age group.
This curriculum, based on the Laurel Martyn Dance Teaching System (L. M. S. ), emphasises the principles and purpose of movement and creative expression.
Rather than rigid and standardised syllabi, this system focuses on teaching students the basics and elements of dance, creativity, musicality, use of space, pattern, and folk dance. As primary students progress, they are also introduced to the syllabi of the Royal Academy of Dance (London).
For secondary school students, ballet class becomes the formal dance training and is designed to encourage creativity and self-expression. The number of training hours increases throughout secondary school, with students starting with 3 hours of classical ballet training per week. The Royal Academy of Dance (London) syllabus is offered from Grades to Vocational Classes. Secondary school students have the opportunity to continue their studies and training in classical ballet and also explore other dance styles.
Advanced open classes are available for students who wish to take a non-syllabus class to focus on improving technique. The school also offers classes in various other dance styles including Spanish, Jazz, Tap, Character, and Contemporary, depending on the age group's suitability.
Victorian Ballet School Darebin also recognises that age is no barrier to learning or returning to dancing. The school offers casual adult classes in Ballet and Tap for individuals looking to make new friends, unwind from a busy working week, improve posture, flexibility, and overall fitness.
In terms of pricing, the school offers cash classes as well as private lessons. Cash class rates range from $25. 00 for 1 hour to $30. 00 for 1.
5 hours. Private lessons are available in 30-minute, 45-minute, and 1-hour intervals, priced at $30. 00, $40. 00, and $50.
00, respectively. The school also offers discounts for families with two or more students attending the school, with each student receiving a 10% discount per term. Additionally, fees paid prior to the end of each term (terms 1, 2, and 3) are eligible for a 5% discount for the following term.
Join Victorian Ballet School Darebin and experience the enriching world of ballet, where traditions are respected, individual growth is nurtured, and the joy of dance is shared.