Australian Ballet performs at Spotswood school

The Australian Ballet shows its Out There act to Spotswood primary pupils. Picture: Shawn Smits

The Australian Ballet went to Spotswood Primary School last week to give youngsters an idea of what it takes to work in the arts.

Children were taught ballet techniques by a dance education ensemble before being treated to an interactive performance of The Sleeping Beauty.

Now in its 11th year, the Out There program takes the Australian Ballet around the nation touring primary and secondary schools until October.

The Australian Ballet’s Katy McKeown said the workshops and performances foster movement skills and promote fitness.

“As one of the five performing arts disciplines in the national curriculum, the Out There program offers students a fun, practical experience that encourages physical and social skills through dance learning,” Ms McKeown said.

“Over the last 11 years, Out There has created a community of schools and teachers interested in dance education.”

Children who participate in the arts are more likely to perform better academically, stay in school longer and have high self-esteem, according to a recent report published by the Australian Council of Educational Research.