Associate Program
Designed for Students Aged 6 to 15
The Associate Program (Levels 9 - 4) is the first point of entry into the Academy of Queensland Ballet’s professional training programs. Designed to complement students’ existing education and community dance training, the Associate Program provides structured, professional ballet training in an after‑school format.
#Introducing our new Associate Program
The Academy of Queensland Ballet has long been a beacon of excellence in ballet training, nurturing talent in Queensland for decades.
From 2027, the Academy will continue this legacy through a new unified model.
Closer connection to the Company
All classes will be delivered at the Thomas Dixon Centre, home of Queensland Ballet. Students will train in close proximity to the professional Company, gaining insight into the standards, discipline and artistry required in the industry.
Students will also receive first consideration when student performers are required in productions by Queensland Ballet.
After-school program structure
This program is designed for students in the Brisbane metropolitan area and is delivered during after school hours across the four terms of the Queensland state school calendar year. It is intended to complement the training young dancers receive through engagement with community dance institutions. Students can maintain their connection to their local dance studio while continuing with syllabus-aligned training and participation in external dance events.
Flexible education pathways
From 2027, students in Associate Program (Levels 6 – 4) may choose to attend any preferred school as their regular training provider.
Skill-based progression
Placement in the program is not based on academic years, but on each student’s level of skill, as well as physical and artistic development.
#Associate Program (Levels 9 - 7)
A nurturing introduction to ballet, focused on developing coordination, musicality and a love of movement. The program includes optional conditioning, repertoire or contemporary components alongside required ballet classes, tailored for younger students.
Students attend two training sessions per week (please see the program structure below) and entry is via a selection session specifically designed for young dancers.
#Associate Program (Levels 6 - 4)
With training built upon the principals of safe dance practice, students develop discipline, and technical and artistic guidance within a supportive, professionally aligned environment.
Students attend two training sessions per week (please see the program structure below) and entry is via invitation or audition.
Semester 1
Term 1 - Wednesday 27 January to Thursday 25 March 2027
Term 2 - Monday 12 April to Friday 25 June 2027
Semester 2
Term 3 - Monday 12 July to Friday 17 September 2027
Term 4 - Tuesday 5 October to Friday 10 December 2027
The program is open to students from across Brisbane.
For the Associate Program (Levels 9 – 7), students may be enrolled at any school within the Brisbane metropolitan area, and be a minimum 6 years old and maximum 12 years old.
For the Associate Program (Level 6 – 4), students must be a minimum 12 years old and a maximum 15 years old.
The Associate Program operates across the four terms of the Queensland state school calendar year. Delivered after school hours, students will attend two sessions per week following the below approximate schedule.
2027 Weekly schedule
| Level | Age* | Days | Session Start | Session Finish |
| 9 | 6-7 | Friday Saturday | 3.30pm TBC | 5.15pm TBC |
| 8 | 8-9 | Wednesday Thursday | 3.30pm 3.30pm | 5.15pm 5.15pm |
| 7 | 10-11 | Monday Tuesday | 3.30pm 3.30pm | 5.15pm 5.15pm |
| 6 | 12-13 | Wednesday Thursday | 5.30pm 5.30pm | 7.30pm 7.30pm |
| 5 | 13-14 | Monday Tuesday | 5.30pm 5.30pm | 7.30pm 7.30pm |
| 4 | 14-15 | Friday Saturday | 5.30pm TBC | 7.30pm TBC |
*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.
Students are required to wear a set uniform available from Bloch Brisbane. Further guidelines and details will be provided upon enrolment.
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 the Academy of Queensland Ballet students originate. A list can be found on our Academy Supporters page, along with information about all our industry partners and supporters.
Associate 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
Find out information relating to Academy fees and financial support.
Auditions
Find out detailed information about auditions for all our programs.