In Dance Stage 6, students are able to study dance as a unique art form in which the body is the instrument for non-verbal communication and expression. The study of dance as an art form within the school environment is of special educational value to the students’ total development, as it offers students new ways of learning through the performance, composition and appreciation of dance.  

Through the study of dance as an art form, students learn about and through dance performance. That is, the knowledge, understanding and skills in physically preparing the body to dance (Dance Technique) and the application and demonstration of knowledge, understanding and skills in a ‘Dance’/‘Work’. They learn about and through dance composition. That is, the knowledge, understanding and skills which underpin the theories, principles, processes and practices of dance composition. The students are encouraged to create and develop a personal response that communicates intent. They learn about and through appreciation of dance as works of art. That is, the study of seminal artists and works for their contribution to the development of dance. 

NESA Syllabus information - Dance

The aim of this course is for students to experience, understand value and enjoy dance as an art form through the interrelated study of the performance, composition and appreciation of dance. 

Through the study of dance as an art form, students learn the skills of dance, to perform and create dances, to critically analyse, respond, enjoy and make discerning judgements about dance, and to gain knowledge and understanding.   

Students learn to manage their own learning and to work together with others in a range of capacities: as performers, composers, as students in a cooperative learning environment, through problem-solving tasks and through group work. 

• Students must wear appropriate dance attire for all practical class work e.g. leggings/fitted pants/shorts and singlet/t-shirt top or leotard. Hair tied back where necessary. For the HSC Practical exam: Plain (colour and style) form-fitting dance wear (i.e. leotards, tights or unitard) must be worn.  

• Students need 3 journal style writing books – e.g. exercise book or similar for year 11 journal writing tasks and HSC Core Composition and Major study.

The study of Dance Stage 6 provides students with knowledge, understanding and skills that form a valuable foundation for a range of courses at university and other tertiary institutions. In addition, the study of Dance Stage 6 assists students to prepare for employment and full and active participation as citizens. In particular, there are opportunities for students to gain recognition in vocational education and training in the areas of: 

• Performing

• Choreographer 

• Education/teaching

• Stage and production

• Health related careers – physiotherapist, massage therapist, injury prevention, yoga/pilates instructor, personal trainers

• Arts administration

• Dance critic/writer and much more. 

For more career ideas and options, follow the attached links:

• Dance Education    

• Dance related jobs    

• Performing Arts Careers    

• Full Time Dance Guide 

Attending live performances and participating in dance performance is an important part of the student's development in this course. These may include:  

• Attending an excursion to view a performance of a professional Australian Dance Company.  

• Attending the HSC Call Back performance- a showcase of exemplary performances and compositions of HSC dance students. 

• Performing at Colo performance nights and the annual Hawkesbury Eisteddfod

• $25. 

• Excursions are additional costs.