We’re proud to announce the launch of the updated Activate! dance resource and the new Dance Guidance for Primary Schools—two key resources developed in partnership with the Department of Education to support high-quality dance education in every Victorian primary classroom.
As the subject association and leading voice for dance education, we are committed to ensuring that every child benefits from the many physical, social and cognitive benefits of dance—and that teachers are equipped with the tools and support they need to make this happen.
Originally launched in 2022, we developed the Activate! resource with the support of the Department of Education as a fun and accessible entry point for teaching dance in the classroom. Thanks to feedback from hundreds of teachers across the state who have used it in their classrooms, we’re thrilled to share an updated version—refined, expanded and more impactful than ever.
Built around a set of easy-to-use flashcards, videos, and a curated music library, Activate! encourages students to embrace dance through purposeful movement while supporting teachers to deliver engaging, curriculum-aligned activities. With no prior performing arts experience required, the resource has been especially valuable for generalist classroom teachers, as well as dance specialists seeking new inspiration.
The success and positive reception of Activate! informed the development of the Department of Education’s new Dance Guidance for Primary Schools—a comprehensive resource designed to help schools establish and deliver high-quality, curriculum-aligned dance programs from Foundation to Level 6. This includes 12 full lesson plans aligned with the Victorian Curriculum F–10 v2.0 and the new Victorian Teaching and Learning Model, plus a term planner and integration of the Activate! flashcards into everyday teaching.
It’s been such a rewarding experience working on the Activate resource and the Dance Guidance alongside the Department of Education. We loved hearing from teachers who were using the resource in real classrooms—their feedback was invaluable in shaping the final version. We’re so proud to have created something that’s practical, engaging, and truly supports teachers to bring dance into their classrooms with confidence.
Elise Brennan, Programming Manager
These resources mark a significant step forward in ensuring dance can be a part of every child’s education, fostering creativity, confidence, collaboration and a sense of belonging in the classroom.
We extend our thanks to the Department of Education for their ongoing support, and to the many dedicated teachers who helped shape these resources through their feedback, ideas and real-world insights.
Together, we are building a future where all students can thrive through dance.
