Foundation Program
The Foundation Program is for students in academic years prep - year 6, and is the first point of entry into Queensland Ballet Academy’s professional training programs. The primary focus of the Foundation Program is to provide formative ballet tuition and to develop a love for the artform.
In response to community feedback, and to provide a seamless ballet education continuum for young children, we are very pleased to launch Foundation Program Level 10 from Term 4 2023.
Bridging the gap between Queensland Ballet’s Petite Pointers courses for 1 to 5-year-olds and Queensland Ballet Academy’s Foundation Program, which currently caters for children from 8 years of age, this new level will be open to young dancers from 6 – 8 years of age (academic years prep – year 2).
Now the earliest point of entry into the Academy, Level 10 students will enjoy foundational ballet tuition and complimentary activities to nurture a love of the artform and provide early dance experience and development.
Academy Director, Christian TÃ tchev says,
"I’m incredibly pleased that the introduction of Level 10 to our Foundation Program will see Queensland Ballet’s complete professional ballet training pathway fully realised. From a child’s first ever ballet class, to graduation as an employment-ready professional dancer, our outstanding teaching faculty will nurture and guide students across 12 levels within our world-class training organisation."
"There has been a noticeable drop in boys participating in dance since the pandemic, and we are committed to encouraging young boys and girls alike to take this opportunity to discover ballet and dance through our Foundation Program. In a dedicated, safe and nurturing environment, children can experience and explore dance from an early age."
Set the Right Foundation with Queensland Ballet Academy
This program is designed for children in the Brisbane metropolitan area and is delivered after school hours across the four terms of the Queensland state school calendar year.
Through preparatory classes and complimentary activities conducted within a professional and wellbeing focused environment, Queensland Ballet Academy's outstanding faculty will guide, inspire and nurture children to develop a love for the artform of ballet.
100% of 2022 Foundation Program Level 7 students were offered a place in our full-time training program in Level 6 of the Lower School in 2023.
#Program Information
All classes are delivered at our state-of-the-art facility at Kelvin Grove, alongside other Academy programs.
Entry to the Foundation Program is via an audition designed specifically for young students, after which successful students will be placed into one of four levels (Levels 10-7).
Academic year level and age are used as a guide when placing students within our Foundation Program levels. Student’s current developmental stage, ability and potential are all considered, and placements are made at the discretion of the Academy Director. Ongoing coaching and feedback monitor appropriate student placement and progression through the program. 
The program runs across the four terms of the Queensland state school calendar year. Students may participate in between 1 and 4 afternoon sessions a week, depending on their enrolment level, and will take part in a variety of ballet theory and practical lessons.
#Semester Dates
Semester 2 2023
Term 3 | 10 July - 15 September
Term 4 | 3 October - 8 December
Semester 1 2024
Term 1 | 22 January – 28 March
Term 2 | 15 April – 21 June
Semester 2 2024
Term 3 | 8 July – 13 September
Term4 | 30 September – 13 December
While Queensland Ballet Academy's world-class facilities are based at Kelvin Grove State College, the Foundation Program is open to students from across the Brisbane metropolitan area. Acceptance into the program is through a Foundation Program audition, or by invitation.
Prior dance or ballet experience is beneficial however not essential.
Children must be no younger than 6 and no older than 11 years and 9 months of age at the first day of the program. 
Children may be enrolled at any school within the Brisbane metropolitan area, in a minimum academic level of prep and maximum year 6.
We welcome children who may have anywhere from a fledgling curiosity to an avid interest in dance.
Children already enjoying dance classes at other studios may continue those activities alongside the Foundation Program.
The Foundation Program operates across the four terms of the Queensland state school calendar year. Delivered after school hours, children may participate in 1-4 afternoon sessions a week, depending on their enrolment level.
Each afternoon session includes a ballet class and complimentary activities designed to enhance the child's experience and development. These activities are optional and provide flexibility to families who have varying travel times and routines.
- Classroom activities - may include ballet history sessions, video viewing to provide an early introduction to famous Classical Ballet excerpts or viewing of recorded classes executed by students from Queensland Ballet Academy or other professional ballet training organisations.
- Practical activities - may include body conditioning, stretch or improvisation sessions, or rehearsals to develop the skill of learning choreography.
Activities will be confirmed within the schedule well before the start of each term.
2023 Weekly schedule^
| Level | Age* | Minimum Sessions/wk | Maximum Sessions/wk | Days | Complete Session | Class Times |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 6-8 | 1 | 1 | Thursday | 3.30pm - 5.15pm | 4.15pm - 5.15pm |
| 9 | 8-9 | 1 | 3 | Monday Wednesday Friday | 3.30pm - 5.45pm | 4.15pm - 5.15pm |
| 8 | 9-10 | 1 | 3 | Tuesday Wednesday Thursday | 3.30pm - 5.45pm | 4.15pm - 5.15pm |
| 7 | 10-11 | 2 | 4 | Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday | 3.30pm - 6.00pm | 4.30pm - 6.00pm |
*Age is only used as a guide when placing students into levels. Ongoing coaching and feedback are used to monitor appropriate student placement and progression.
^Subject to change. In 2024 timing and days for all levels may vary and Level 10 will be offered on two afternoons per week.
Students are required to wear a set uniform available from Bloch Dancewear (approx. $120 per student).
- Girls: a leotard, tights and canvas ballet shoes with ribbons
- Boys: a top, shorts, socks and canvas ballet shoes with elastic
Each semester, parents/carers and studio teachers will have an opportunity to observe Foundation Program ballet classes. Students who have participated in the optional additional sessions, may also have simple repertoire (dance material) which could be demonstrated at this time.
Dates for these viewing opportunities will be advised at the beginning of each term.
Queensland Ballet is committed to forging collaborative relationships with the teachers and dance organisations of our local and global dance community. We respectfully acknowledge the teachers and studios from which Queensland Ballet Academy students originate. A list can be found on our Academy Supporters page, along with information about all our industry partners and supporters.
Foundation Program students may continue participating in external dance and/or other physical activities, however parents/carers are encouraged give careful consideration to not overloading their child. Suitable load will vary for each individual and professional guidance may be sought from a physiotherapist or sports physician.
#Discover more
Academy Fees
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FAQs
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Auditions
Find out detailed information about auditions for all our programs.
