Introducing Perform Australia Academy

A full-time, industry-oriented performing arts training program for Years 9-12

Apply by 11.59pm JUNE 9, 2024 to start mid-year 2024 or Term 1, 2025

Formerly known as the Thrive Program, the Perform Australia Academy Program offers a comprehensive and immersive full-time performing arts program tailored to students in Years 9-12. As an essential part of Perform Australia's broader creative community, the Academy Program is committed to nurturing the next generation of talented performers and providing them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the competitive world of the performing arts.

Based in Canberra, at our Griffith campus.

How Does It Work?

Students may apply to the Academy Program in Year 9, 10 or 11. Entry is by audition and interview.

In Years 9 and 10, students complete accredited microcredentials in theatre and film. 

Alongside their performing arts studies, Year 9 and 10 students complete their academics (English, Maths, Science etc.) with a distance education provider. 

Perform Australia Academy

In Years 11 and 12, students complete two nationally recognised qualifications, and have a range of choices around academics:

  • All students complete the 10915NAT Certificate IV in Acting, and the 11017NAT Advanced Diploma of Performance.
  • Some students opt to complete their Year 12 Certificate alongside our program,  through the Canberra Institute of Technology. Perform Australia's qualifications count as points towards your Year 12 package.
  • Some students opt to only complete their Certificate and Advanced Diploma instead of pursuing a Year 12 Certificate.
  • On successfully completing their 11017NAT Advanced Diploma of Performance, all students have opportunity to apply for the Bachelor of Screen and Stage Acting with the Australian Performing Arts Conservatory. Students must audition for this course, but they only need to complete one more year of study to achieve their degree.

Got questions? Book a meet-and-greet with our Principal.

Would you like to discuss the program and have your questions answered? Fill out your details and we can meet up with you in person or via Zoom as suits.

Most of our meetings are conducted in the after-school period, between 2pm-5:30pm.

Our Principal, Elizabeth Scott, will meet with you and your child and walk you through all aspects of the program, from audition to course content.

Our Faculty

The Academy Program boasts a distinguished faculty comprising industry professionals, accomplished artists, and experienced educators. These mentors bring a wealth of real-world experience and passion for their craft, providing students with valuable insights and guidance. The close-knit community allows for personalized attention, creating an environment where students can flourish and discover their unique artistic voice. Trainers vary from term to term, giving students exposure to a wide range of industry people. In addition, guest speakers, workshops, masterclasses and excursions add to students' industry knowledge.

Below are just some of our trainers, to give you a taste of who you'll be working with. Click through to find out more.

Performance opportunities

A hallmark of the Perform Australia Academy Program is its emphasis on practical experience. Training is workshop-style with a focus on acquiring skills.

Students have numerous opportunities to showcase their talents through regular performances, both on campus and at external venues.

From theatrical productions to on-screen performances, students gain invaluable experience that prepares them for a successful career in the performing arts.

Actresses performing Charleston

Performance venues

In addition to on-camera work, as an Academy student, you will perform in a range of theatres around Canberra. The great benefit of this is that you will develop your capacity to adapt your acting skills to different theatrical spaces. Here are some of the theatres you may perform in - imagine yourself on stage!

Tuggeranong Arts Theatre
The Mill Theatre
The Courtyard Studio

What People Say

"I love being able to participate in acting, singing and dancing with people who share the same passions as me. I love being in the supportive community - it makes the school an amazing place to learn the arts."

Kailani, Year 9

"Moving to this program after nine years of public schooling was an enormous change... but we are thrilled we climbed on board as the ride was, and is, definitely worth it!"

Jocelyn, Parent

"This program has provided a nurturing, stimulating and safe environment for our daughter, allowing her to both be herself and to grow and learn the performing arts and academic subjects. The management and staff could not be more supportive."

Michael, Parent

Academy students performing in Godspell
  • Who should apply?

You should apply if:

  • You absolutely love acting and performing
  • You're interested in both stage and screen
  • You're keen to learn from industry professionals
  • You're looking for a different way to do secondary school education
  • You are consistent academically, are good at organising your own work and meeting deadlines
  • You are thinking about a career in arts and entertainment
  • You are willing to try new things, are open to learning, and able to think outside the box
  • You prefer a small school environment
  • You want to be with others who love the same things.

How to apply

If you would like to apply to join Perform Australia Academy, follow the steps below.

01

Download the info pack

Put your details in and access the audition information and course brochure.

02

Book a meet-and-greet

If you're not yet ready to audition, and would like more information, book a meet-and-greet with one of our staff. We offer these online and in-person at our studio. Meet-and-greets are not a compulsory part of the application process, if you are already ready to audition - they're offered to help you in your decision-making about whether our program is right for you.

03

Prepare your audition

Follow the instructions in the audition pack and create your audition video. Complete your application form and send your video to us.

04

Attend an interview

After your video is viewed by our team, and the decision is made to advance your application to the next stage, you will be invited to an interview.

05

Receive a letter of offer

If you are successful at the interview stage, you will receive an offer of a place in the Academy Program. This will come to you via email. Then, when you're ready to to begin, you may join the Program at the next term, semester, or course commencement date, depending on what time of the year you apply. Your course coordinator will advise you on the best time to start.

06

Check out finance options

We have partnered with TLC Finance, who offer educational loans. If you require a loan to cover part or all of the tuition fees, TLC may be able to help:

  • Payment plans from $2,001 to $50,000
  • No stress – the whole process is managed privately
  • Flexible options – any additional repayments can be added back on to the payment plan at no extra charge
  • Fast efficient approvals, simply apply online

 

 https://app.tlc.com.au/apply?partner_id=4370&type=lifestyle

Total Lifestyle Credit Pty Ltd - Authorised under Australian Credit Licence 509691

 

 

Terms & Conditions:

  • Speak to TLC direct for a quote based on your personal circumstances and for the full terms and conditions.
  • A full credit and financial assessment would need to be completed prior to acceptance of any offer or product.

Application form

Are you ready to apply? The next deadline is JUNE 9, 2024. Make sure you read the audition pack information (download at the top of this page), prepare your audition, then complete the form by clicking the button below.