Introducing the Thrive Program

A specialist performing arts program for students in Years 7-12

If acting, singing and dancing light up your world, the Thrive Program might be just what you're looking for!

If the odd school musical or occasional drama class isn't quite enough for you, then the Thrive program is a step up. 

​This unique program is a chance for you to not only improve your capacity as an actor, and work towards a professional career in the performing arts - it's also an opportunity to "do school differently".  Imagine half your school day - every day - devoted to improving your skills as a performer. Acting for theatre, acting for screen, singing, dance and of course essential fitness are all part of our Thrive Program curriculum.

But how does it work?

Students are enrolled in the Queensland-based Cairns School of Distance Education (CSDE) as their registered school, and their acting, singing and dance training with Perform Australia forms the elective component of their schooling in Years 7-10.

Go even further in Years 11-12

​Want to join in Year 11? Perfect - you'll commence our 10197NAT Certificate IV in Acting for Stage and Screen, and follow it up with the 10295NAT Advanced Diploma of Performance. You'll do these courses three days per week, and have two days of your five-day working week to complete academic studies with CSDE. Plus - you'll get your Year 12 Certificate along the way. Two qualifications in acting will equip you for life in the industry - or further study, if that's your choice. ​

Hear from our Principal

Watch this webinar where our principal, Elizabeth Scott, explains the finer details of how the program works.

What people are saying about Thrive

"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 Thrive provides which helps each other and makes the school an amazing place to learn the arts." - Kailani, Year 9

"I would recomend thrive to any young person with an interest in performing arts, for its great resources and the amazing things you learn and achieve." - Abi, Year 9
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"Before I started Thrive, I wanted to learn more about acting. It was the perfect environment for me, and I've learnt so much!" - Leo, Year 8

"Something I really love about Thrive are the people. The teachers are very nice, and easy to understand when they are teaching, and my fellow classmates make it enjoyable to be at school." - Nicala, Year 10

"Moving to Thrive 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 

"Thrive 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

What the students say

How do I apply?

Entry is by audition. You must fill out an application form, collect a reference from a teacher, submit your last school report, and film yourself presenting a monologue and a song. You will submit your files via the WeTransfer service (wetransfer.com). Instructions are available when you download the info pack below.

Important dates

ROUND 1 - VIDEO AUDITIONS - due 30 May - **CLOSED**
ROUND 2 - VIDEO AUDITIONS - due 19 July - **OPEN NOW**
Due to COVID-19, this year our auditions will be via video upload. We may hold a face to face audition later in the year if restrictions are lifted. 

Applications are now open for Round 2, with last applications to be received by midnight on Sunday 19 July, 2020
Interviews for potential candidates will be conducted between now and July 24, 2020.
​Offers will be issued by July 31, 2020.

If you have any questions, or need help getting your audition tapes together, please call us on 1300 908 905.