DANCE at downlands

As the newest discipline within the Downlands Arts department, Dance engages the mind, body and spirit and provides opportunities for the development of physical, expressive, critical, imaginative, appreciative and perceptive abilities. Students develop as creative, complex thinkers, effective communicators, reflective and independent learners and participants in an interdependent world as they study and participate in various dance contexts, genres and styles.

Informal and formal Dance is a part of everyone’s life and each generation has used Dance and particular dance styles as a way of defining themselves and developing a strong sense of cultural identity. Dance is also at the heart of many indigenous cultures and a vital part of their heritage and rituals.

Academic Dance 

All Downlands students study Dance as part of the compulsory Performing Art unit offered in Year 7. For many students, this is the first time that they have encountered formal dance training and the learning activities undertaken focus on dance styles relevant and of interest to each cohort. Dance is then offered in Years 8, 9 and 10 as an elective subject. Each elective focuses on a specific set of dance techniques and skills, choreography and appreciation, while preparing students for our Senior program.

In Years 11 and 12, Dance is offered as an Authority subject which contributes towards both a student’s QCE and ATAR. The two-year course of study in Dance explores different styles and genres and provides learning opportunities to the students in Choreography, Performance and Appreciation. Full details and information on the curriculum and units offered in Dance can be found in the Middle or Senior School subject selection handbooks. 

Co-curricular Dance - Dance Troupe

The Downlands College Dance Troupe is the newest co-curricular activity available in The Arts to all students from Years 5 to 12. Students of all ability levels are welcome in the Dance Troupe and performance choreography is specifically designed to utilise the talents of each member and challenge and extend those students who have considerable dance experience and skills.

The Dance Troupe provides both large and small group performance opportunities at College events, external competitions and in the wider community. In addition to technique and skill development, this group is also a great fitness training option.

Specialists groups are regularly formed from within the Dance Troupe to provide extension opportunities for our gifted and talented dancers. This group regularly performs at College events and competes in various dance competitions, including the Toowoomba Eisteddfod.