STUDENT HANDBOOK


We are delighted to welcome you to our dance family at

Sydney Performing Arts Academy!

It’s always a joy to see so many familiar
faces returning year after year and equally exciting to greet new members
joining our vibrant community.

This comprehensive handbook has been designed to provide you
with valuable insights into how the Academy operates throughout the year and to
address any of the questions you may have along the way. While we encourage you
to review this information, please remember that our dedicated team is always
here to assist you. No question is too big or too small—your experience is our
priority!

We’re looking forward to an amazing and memorable year of
dance in 2025 and can’t wait to see you at the Academy!

 

EMPOWERING NURTURING INSPIRING

IN THE ARTS AND IN LIFE

Our Academy's Mission and Values

At Sydney Performing Arts Academy, we’re all about sharing our vision, purpose, and philosophy in everything we do—both inside and outside the studio. Our Principal, Teachers, and Staff are united in creating a supportive, inspiring environment, making every interaction with our students and their families truly special. 💜

EMPOWERING NURTURING INSPIRING

IN THE ARTS AND IN LIFE

Mission Statement: At the heart of Sydney Performing Arts Academy is our commitment to Empower, Nurture, and Inspire students through our AMAZING dance classes. We strive to instill confidence and encouragement in an inspiring, caring, and safe environment. Guided by our core values of kindness, community, excellence, teamwork, progress and diligence, we aim to provide exceptional teaching, classes, and programs that balance growth, fun, and technique.

We are dedicated to creating a platform where every student feels seen, celebrated, and given the opportunity to shine. Through encouragement and support, we foster confident, resilient kids who not only grow in their love of dance but also develop skills that will empower them in all areas of life.

Together, we cultivate an inclusive and supportive space (a Dance Family) where creativity flourishes, friendships are built, and every student is encouraged to pursue their potential with passion and joy.

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Before you Start

Before pulling on those dance shoes, it’s important that all families – whether returning or new complete their enrolment so we can ensure we have the most up-to-date contact details for you and have you review the Terms and Conditions and Fee Policy of enrolment. This information includes you and your child's details, any medical conditions, our waivers and your payment details.

Enrolments are completed online through our Parent Portal.

Parent Portal Link

We encourage all of our students and families to try a variety of dance styles and we are more than happy to accommodate trial classes for existing students who are wanting to try something a bit different. Please contact our admin team if you would like to try a new class and we will happily schedule you in for a trial (provided the class has not reached capacity).

Important Dates

We know how busy family schedules can get, so we’ve organised key dates to help you plan ahead. Below are our important "Save the Dates"—more details will follow as the events approach. If your family can’t attend due to holidays or other commitments, please let our admin team know as soon as possible.

* Please note these dates may be subject to change.

Term Dates:

Term 1: Monday 3rd February – Saturday 12th April

Term 2: Monday 28th April – Saturday 5th July

Term 3: Monday 21st July – Saturday 27th September

Term 4: Monday 13th October – Saturday 20th December  

Booked Events:

16th February: Western Sydney Wanderers – Year 1 and Up Students who have booked

8th March: Blacktown City Show – Selected Classes

22nd March - Harmony Day at Elara Village

1st -6th July: Open Week

Pre School Production: Sunday 16th November

School Age Production: Friday 28th November

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Communication

At Sydney Performing Arts Academy, clear communication is our priority!

Our friendly admin team is available during office hours at 0415504917, and our dedicated teaching staff are happy to answer quick questions after class.

Our primary communication methods are email and the BAND app, so please ensure your email address is up-to-date and regularly checked. We’re happy to add multiple email addresses per family, and don’t forget to download the BAND app for class-specific updates.

To avoid missing important information, please add [email protected] to your contacts. You can also follow us on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM for additional updates.

If you have questions or need clarification, feel free to call us or speak with our helpful admin team at the studio.

Important Note: To maintain professionalism and respect personal boundaries, we kindly request that students and parents avoid connecting with teachers or staff on social media unless a pre-existing relationship exists. We also ask that parents and carers direct all parent/ teacher communication trhough email or BAND. For any studio-related matters, please contact our admin team, who will be happy to assist.

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BAND APP

WHAT IS BAND APP:

Band is a communication app that enables easy communication with our SPAA community, administrators and teachers. At Sydney Performing Arts Academy we use BAND APP so you can receive Academy updates, SPECIFIC class information, ask questions and see videos from your child’s classes. We will regularly post relevant and important class updates as well as showing you what your kids are up to in class. You can also access class music and choreography, allowing your child to easily practise their routines at home.

INTIAL SET UP:

  1. Dowload BAND to your device or access through web browser

  2. Sign up to BAND by using your mobile number, Facebook, Email or Google

  3. Once logged in you need to add your dancer's classes 'BAND's' to your account.

  4. To find your child's BAND please CLICK HERE where you will see all 2025 classes. Scan the QR Code relevant to your enroled class.

  5. Once you have completed the initial Set Up, please scan the below QR Codes to request membership for: SPAA FAMILIES and SPAA POLICIES AND JACK RABBIT LINK

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Make Up Classes

To View a short video of how to submit and ABSENCE or BOOK a MAKEUP CLASS .... CLICK HERE.

LOGIN TO THE PARENT PORTAL:

Login to the Parent Portal here: CLICK HERE

Your login is your email address. If you did not create a password through an OnlineRegistration form, just click the "Reset Password" link to create one.

To view a short video on how to use your Parent Portal CLICK HERE.

Once logged in, simply click on the menu icon at the top right of your screen (thethree horizontal lines) and select Absences and Makeups

SUBMITTING AN ABSENCE:

UnderAbsences and Makeups select 'Submit An Absence' and enter the dates thatthe student will be absent.

SCHEDULING A MAKEUP:

Once your absence is submitted, select an upcoming Absence and click 'ViewSchedule Impacts'. You will then be able to schedule a Makeup class.

If you are scheduling a Makeup for a previously missed class (not an upcomingAbsence), simply select 'Schedule Makeup' under the listed Absence.

THINGS TO NOTE:

You can only schedule a Makeup Class if there is an upcoming Absence that hasbeen submitted or if there is a past Absence from a previously missed class for thecurrent Term.

You will not be able to schedule a Makeup in a different age group or if the class isalready full.

Makeups will be allowed until the end of the term. If other arrangements arerequired, please contact us.

Uniform & Footwear

At Sydney Performing Arts Academy, we take pride in our wonderful uniform, which offers a wide variety of choices to suit all dance styles and age groups. Our carefully selected uniform fosters a sense of belonging, promotes discipline, and ensures students can move comfortably and confidently during classes and performances.

Wearing a uniform also encourages students to take pride in their presentation and helps maintain a professional and cohesive learning environment.

All uniforms can be conveniently purchased through our Online Store via our website.

CLICK HERE for SPAA Online Uniform Store

Footwear Requirements

Correct dance footwear is essential for safe and effective training. Please CLICK HERE to learn which shoes are required for each class. All dance shoes can be purchased from BLOCH at Rouse Hill Town Centre.

Be sure to mention that you are enrolled at Sydney Performing Arts Academy to receive an exclusive SPAA discount.

Uniform Guidelines for Toddlers & Preschool Students

Our youngest dancers in Toddler and Preschool classes are not required to wear a uniform but must have the correct dance footwear for their classes.We look forward to seeing all our students in their SPAA uniforms, ready to learn, grow, and shine!

Note: Please ensure all parts of your child’s uniform are clearly labelled!

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Fees

Our Fees are outlined on our 2025 Fee Policy please CLICK HERE:

MONTHLY DIRECT DEBIT FOR ALL FAMILIES

Fees are required to be paid MONTHLY by Direct Debit for ALL families. Debits can be processed from your:

There is an Annual Membership Fee of $35 per student or $45 perfamily, paid upon enrolment. This is non-refundable.If you choose to enrol after a trial, the trial class will be added toyour fees. Fees for each upcoming month will be automatically deducted on the 25th from a family’s chosen method of payment. A month’s fees will not be altered to cater for future absences -Make Up classes will be available. Fees are unable to be transferred to other class or event fees.

ENROLMENT

After enrolling, an ongoing enrolment for the remainder of the yearis assumed. You do not need to re-enrol each term.

CANCELLATIONS

If you wish to cancel enrolment, please email us at: [email protected] before the nextmonth’s fees are charged on the 25th of the month or you will becharged for the upcoming month. Fees will not be refunded if cancellation is after the 24th. If you cancel enrolment mid-month, that month’s fees will not berefunded.

Production and Local Performance Opportunities

Performing in a production is an exciting and empowering experience that builds confidence and showcases each student's hard work. It’s a chance to learn about theatre, rehearsals, and teamwork while shining in a professionally run performance. Productions are a celebration of achievement, providing students with the opportunity to perform for family and friends in a supportive and fun environment. We encourage all students, even our youngest and newest, to take part and enjoy this memorable experience!

Sydney Performing Arts Academy holds two shows per year:

  • MID-YEAR SHOWCASE - An informal relaxed chance for parents, family and friends to see what the students have achieved in Terms 1 and 2. Costuming is not required for this performance.

  • END OF YEAR PRODUCTION - A professional display of dance enhanced by amazing costumes, special effects and lighting that is held JOAN SUTHERLAND THEATRE PENRITH.

    Detailed PRODUCTION information is sent out throughout the year detailing everything you need to know.

    School Aged Students: Friday 27th November 5:30pm

    Toddler and PreSchool Students: Sunday 16th November 10am

    Each class will begin learning their End of Year Production routine at the beginning of Term 3. The students work on this each week in class, developing their skills in the process and learning the importance of rehearsal, commitment, performance techniques and teamwork.

PRODUCTION FEES:

ALL STUDENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE END OF YEAR PRODUCTION.

Costumes: are $85 each, per genre of dance, and we provide asplit payment over Term 2 and Term 3 of $42.50 each term.

Production Fee: of $55 will be charged to all participants in Term 4 and this covers filming and photography, certificates and medals, staff hire, and any additional Production requirements.

No refunds are available for Production or Costume Fees.

COSTUMES

At Sydney Performing Arts Academy, we take pride in providing exquisite, high-quality costumes for our productions. Each costume is thoughtfully selected to ensure it is age-appropriate and enhances the magic of every performance. Our students have the opportunity to wear their stunning costumes multiple times, including in our local performances, making them a cherished part of their dance journey.

LOCAL PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Sydney Performing Arts Academy offers multiple local performance opportunities for all our students. These relaxed and enjoyable performances are often part of vibrant community festivals, fostering a sense of belonging in our dance family while celebrating the joy of dance together. Students also wear their production costumes for these fun events.

We also perform regularly at the Bull Dogs Dance Spectacular and the Western Sydney Wanderers Spectacular.

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Attendance

Your child’s regular attendance is so important—not just for their own progress but also for their peers and our teaching staff at Sydney Performing Arts Academy. Being part of our dance family means embracing the joy of consistent participation, arriving on time, and attending all their scheduled lessons. Missing classes can affect your child’s growth, choreography for productions, and the friendships and confidence we work so hard to build in each age group. If you know ahead of time that your child will be away due to holidays, commitments, or school trips, we kindly ask you to log their absence in our Parent Portal. Thank you for your support in creating a positive and connected learning environment for all!

ENROLMENT

After enrolling, an ongoing enrolment for the remainder of the yearis assumed. You do not need to re-enrol each term.

CANCELLATIONS

If you wish to cancel enrolment, please email us at: [email protected] before the nextmonth’s fees are charged on the 25th of the month or you will becharged for the upcoming month. Fees will not be refunded if cancellation is after the 24th. If you cancel enrolment mid-month, that month’s fees will not berefunded.

Student Safety

With the safety of our families our number one priority, Sydney Performing Arts Academy is very serious about upholding Child Protection laws and policies within the Academy as well as at public performances and in the online arena (website and social media). We ensure child safety through a range of different methods:

  • We have an Open Door Policy for parents/ carers. Parents are allowed to QUIETLY watch their child in class and assist their child with any necessary bathroom breaks.

  • All of our teachers and staff members have undergone official Working with Children checks allowing them to work with children.

  • The Staff and Directors of Sydney Performing Arts Academy strive to ensure that all music and costumes are age appropriate.

  • Our staff members have been trained in first aid and we enforce a nut-free policy at the Academy to ensure the safety of any students or parents with allergies to nuts or nut products.

  • Sydney Performing Arts Academy has been approved as a COVID-SAFE business. We have strict policies and procedures in place to ensure continual up-to-date compliance with Government guidance.

  • Our staff members have an internal communication system to ensure studio and child safety at all times during studio operating hours.

TOILET BREAKS:

To ensure a smooth and uninterrupted learning experience, we kindly request that all students use the restroom before their classes begin. This helps minimize disruptions during the lessons and allows our instructors to focus on providing valuable instruction.  

PRESCHOOL & KINDY - YEAR 1 STUDENTS:

We encourage parents to accompany their child to the bathroom or have a parent present in the class to take them. This ensures the utmost care and supervision during these essential breaks.  

YEAR 2 AND UP DANCING AT THE MARSDEN PARK NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE:

Students are permitted to use the bathroom with another student. However, if the bathroom is occupied, it is crucial that they promptly return to their teacher. This ensures their safety and helps maintain a secure learning environment.  

YEAR 2 AND UP DANCING AT THE ELARA COMMUNITY HUB:

If there is NO Second or Assistant teacher, or trusted parent, we now require the entire class to go to the bathroom collectively. This precaution ensures that students are not left unattended and helps us ensure their safety during these times.  

DISMISSALS:

We kindly request your cooperation in picking up your child directly from their class. This measure is crucial to ensure their safety during the transition from our Academy to your care. If you have any specific arrangements, such as allowing your child to walk home, please contact Miss Bec to inform us of your preferences. By clarifying these details, we can ensure that our Duty of Care is clearly defined and upheld.

Privacy

We respect your privacy and we will never sell or pass on any of your information to third parties unless required by Government Authorities or in the event of debt recovery. Any information passed on will be done so with appropriate privacy and confidentiality protection.

As part of your registration, you will have read and signed a media waiver allowing us to proudly use images and video footage of your student for advertising and promotional purposes. Photographs and Videos are generally taken at our Mid Year, End of Year Productions and other Sydney Performing Arts Academy events. Additionally, footage of children may also be taken in the studios for the benefit of sharing this with parents where required or with our internal team for training and development purposes. Should you have any concerns whatsoever with signing this declaration, please see our admin team.

Social Media

Sydney Performing Arts Academy Social Media Policy refers to all social networking sites, video/photo sharing sites, blogs, micro-blogs, wikis, podcasts, forums, instant messaging and geo-spatial tagging (for example, Facebook check-ins). Please see below for our regulations regarding Social Media and feel free to contact our admin team if you have any questions.

  • Please remember that your anonymity on Social Media is never guaranteed and to exercise particular caution when posts, images or videos identify children in your care.

  • Remain mindful that your behaviour on Social Media remains in keeping with Sydney Performing Arts Academy code of conduct as outlined in this handbook, when positng pictures and comments of SPAA.

  • Intellectual property laws (for example, costume design and choreography) must be observed by all studio patrons when posting online regarding studio matters.

  • All matters pertaining directly to the studio - whether it be fees, scheduling, placements or performance opportunities - we ask to not be communicated via social media.

  • We have an open door policy and encourage all communication, complaints and feedback to be communicated to the admin team and Principal directly.

  • We discourage parents/students from becoming ‘friends’ or ‘followers’ on Social Media with teachers unless there is an existing relationship. We consider all studio members to be family and as such feel the obligation to respect and monitor personal boundaries.

Code of Conduct

To ensure the smooth, safe running of Sydney Performing Arts Academy and an enjoyable experience for all, find below our code of conduct.

  • Sydney Performing Arts Academy is an Academy where Bullying in any of its forms will not be accepted.

  • Families who do not comply with their fee or costume payment obligations may be charged a late fee, and/or excluded from performances. External debt collection may occur when fees remain overdue and this will be at the expense of the client.

  • We are unable to take responsibility for our students before or after their scheduled classes and it is the responsibility of the parent to ensure their child is picked up and dropped off on time. In the case of an emergency or unavoidable delay, please contact the Academy immediately to inform us of the situation so we can keep your child calm and safe until they can be collected.

  • Any questions or feedback must go through our admin team or BAND App – we ask that parents and students do not contact teachers via phone, email or social media with Academy issues. We ask that you respect our staff members privacy and work hours by not contacting them personally. Personal meetings with Teachers or our Principal can happily be arranged via our admin team. Teachers are able to respond to questions via your child's BAND App too.

  • Sydney Performing Arts Academy takes no responsibility for any stolen or misplaced property on the Academy's premises and we encourage our families to avoid bringing valuable items into the Academy where possible.

  • Sydney Performing Arts Academy Management reserves the right to change teachers or timetabling when necessary at any time throughout the year. Where significant or permanent changes occur families will be notified in advance.

  • Choreography, costuming and Academy policies remain the intellectual property of Sydney Performing Arts Academy and may not be reproduced or sold by any students, parents or staff without permission of the Principal.

Our Team

Finally, it’s our pleasure to introduce our hand-picked faculty for 2025! Our enthusiastic, passionate and dedicated team are thrilled to be a part of your family’s dance journey this year. We are truly looking forward to growing together to mould this generation of skilled, confident, genuine and unique performers.

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Dance Classes and Styles

At Sydney Performing Arts Academy, we offer a diverse range of classes, including

RAD Ballet

Jazz

Tap

Hip Hop

Musical Theatre

Lyrical

Acrobatics.

Students also have the opportunity to undertake examinations in Glenn Wood Tap, Royal Academy of Dance Ballet, and Acrobatic Arts, fostering both skill development and personal growth in a supportive environment.

If you’re interested in trialing or enrolling in an additional class, feel free to reach out to our friendly admin team—we’d love to help!

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CONTACT US