“MOVE UP!” is a professional learning program that will receive three years of funding to assist teachers in implementing the Australian Dance curriculum, Minister for Education and Training and Minister for the Arts Joy Burch announced today.
Calwell High students at the Ausdance Youth Dance Festival launch
Developed by Ausdance ACT, “MOVE UP!” will help primary teachers and high school and college dance teachers to teach the Arts dance learning area of the Australian Curriculum. “Ensuring our teachers have the latest knowledge and teaching methods is vital to our students’ education,” Ms Burch said, adding, “We understand the importance of developing healthy and active habits in children for their long term health. Dance is a fun way to exercise, while also building communication and cooperation skills.
Minister Burch at the Ausdance Youth Dance Festival launch
Ms Burch said the ACT Government would be providing $15,000 a year for the next three years to establish this program and support dance education in our schools. “I am pleased to be able to continue our support for Ausdance, the peak body for dance in the ACT,” she said.
J4 Crew dancing at the Ausdance Youth Dance Festival launch
The announcement was made at the launch of Ausdance ACT’s 30th Youth Dance Festival, a non-competitive that will showcase talent from more than 35 high schools and colleges across the ACT and the region. The theme of this year’s event is “Stories,” and with 2014 marking 31,000 young dancers having had the Dance Festival experience. More information about the Youth Dance Festival and the Move Up! program is available from Ausdance ACT on 02 6247 9103 or email director.act@ausdance.org.au
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