All Abilities
All Abilities
As experts in the field of inclusive Performing Arts practice, Diakosmos Dance Academy has established highly structured programs for children and teenagers of all abilities. We support students with a wide range of abilities, diagnoses, and lived experiences, including mental health challenges, within a respectful and nurturing learning environment. At Diakosmos, students are never defined by disability, each dancer is recognised for their creativity, passion, and talent.
Our strong belief is that every young person deserves the opportunity to train in the Performing Arts; to build skills and to express artistry through performance. Further to this, our programs facilitate an environment for students to engage alongside mainstream peers, where every student is seen as equal in potential and opportunity.
Through thoughtful assessment and ongoing communication, we take time to understand each student’s needs and learning style. From there, we recommend the most suitable class pathway, which includes participation in any of the following:
- Ballet program
- Musical Theatre
- Jazz
- Contemporary
- Tap
- Hip-Hop
- All-Embracing First-Step Program (one-on-one sessions)
- Private Lessons
Diakosmos is proud to provide a supportive foundation for young dancers and performers. However, we don’t just provide dance classes, we provide a pathway. As students mature beyond their teenage years, we are excited to offer a natural continuation of this journey through the 2024 launch of Breakthrough Inclusive Performance Co; our adult training and community performance program designed to empower young adults to find their purpose and realise their dreams.
Together, Diakosmos and Breakthrough form a connected pathway, allowing students to grow with continuity, dignity, and purpose; from early experiences in the studio to meaningful adult participation in the Performing Arts.
Please note: Diakosmos Dance Academy is not currently a registered provider of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). However, many families access NDIS funding through self-managed or plan-managed arrangements to participate in our programs. For further information, please contact us.
All-Embracing First Step Program
In our First Step Program, students with high needs will benefit from a 1-1 program formulated to cater to specific developmental and creative goals. An initial consultation is required to establish these exact goals and outcomes. This program could include any combination of Dance, Drama and Singing/Music.
Over the past 12 years, we have witnessed our students develop in social interaction, cognition, physical strength, coordination, motor skills, creativity and artistry.
We are continually proud to witness our students increase in confidence and enjoyment, in a safe space where all can flourish. It is always a priceless moment to see the smiles on their faces as they achieve their goals. Our dream is to continue to create an environment in which every child feels successful, accomplished and valued.
“We sense the joy and love of dance in every child, and it is our mission to nurture this passion in your child, inspiring them to dance from the heart and express their individuality.”
Dianne’s experience as a teacher in Specialist Schools sparked an interest to develop dance programs that encouraged the students:
To be active and to assist in improving their movement skills.
To be creative and to learn how to express themselves through dance and movement.
To be engaged in the Performing Arts and to participate in performances.
Growing up with a sibling with special needs, Dianne became aware of how important it is to provide opportunities for children of all abilities. She recognised that all children deserve the chance to explore their interests and to develop their individual and unique talents.
“Dianne is very professional, respectful and believes that there should be no barriers to a child wishing to express their love of dancing. She truly upholds her motto of “dancing from the heart” and is able to showcase each child’s strengths”
Diakosmos All Abilities VCE/VET Dance Program
In 2023, Diakosmos Dance Academy launched the pioneering VCE/VET All Abilities Certificate II in Dance (unscored). The unique program is offered to students of all abilities, with modifications made to suit the learning needs of the students. The program is taught by our Principal Dianne De Battista who has over 30 years experience, achieving excellent results. The qualification empowers students with additional needs by offering an opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge as performers and dancers. Possible career pathways include participating in other related certificate courses and further opportunities in the Performing Arts, including teaching, performing and production work.
RTO: 45789 Dance Training Organisation
