INTERN PROGRAM

Who is it for?

The Intern Program is designed for students who are passionate about dance and inspired by the idea of teaching the next generation.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be in Grade 11 or 12 (15–18 years old)

• Be actively training in their own dance classes

• Be reliable, resilient, and committed to weekly assistant teaching

• Have strong respect for communication and teamwork (responding to emails, staying up to date with information, etc.)

• Be ready to invest consistent time and effort into their development

• Have an intention to remain on the Sunshine Coast for study or work after school, ideally continuing to teach at Dance Energy for at least 1–2 years after their internship

Only 3–4 students are selected each year through an application and interview process.

What’s Included?

Interns are given a structured pathway that combines real-world teaching experience with personalised mentoring. The program includes:

• Teaching – Weekly involvement in assigned classes, working alongside an experienced teacher to observe, assist and gradually take on leadership roles

• Mentoring with Miss Claire – Weekly 1:1 or group check-ins to discuss progress, set goals and reflect on experiences in the classroom

• Practical & Written Tasks – Designed to build skills in lesson planning, classroom management and syllabus understanding. One assignment is set each term.

• Class Observations – At least once per term, students will sit in on a class outside their usual teaching schedule to broaden their perspective

• Optional Learning Opportunities – Opportunities to explore other areas of the business, such as social media, reception, holiday events or concert preparation

We understand that students are balancing the demands of high school, so assignment timelines will be flexible. However, Interns must be prepared to commit and put in the work consistently throughout the year.

Program Focus Areas

By the end of the Intern Program, you will know how to:

• Understand and apply curriculum to lesson planning

• Teach syllabus content and break down skills into clear, achievable steps

• Plan and deliver lessons tailored to different age groups

• Manage behaviour and set positive class culture

• Communicate effectively as part of a teaching team, including professionalism in emails and staying across studio information

• Give feedback and corrections in a supportive and effective way

• Reflect on your own teaching to continue growing as an educator

Interns will be expected to choreograph and take full classes within two terms. This is an intensive course designed to fast-track your teaching ability. Assisting and leading parts of holiday camps also provide opportunities for further training in an immersive environment.

Outcomes

By completing the Intern Program, you will:

• Be ready to run your own classes independently with confidence and professionalism

• Have choreographed, planned and delivered full lessons across multiple age groups

• Gain real-world experience leading both weekly classes and intensive holiday workshops

• Build resilience, confidence and leadership skills that will support you beyond the studio

• Develop strong communication and teamwork habits, including professionalism in responding to information and working as part of a staff team

• Complete a class evaluation and a final interview to demonstrate your readiness for future opportunities

• Be considered for a paid teaching role at Dance Energy in 2027

While a paid role is not guaranteed, students are only accepted into the Intern Program if we believe they have strong potential for future employment.

Commitment Expectations

Interns are role models within the Dance Energy community. We expect you to:

• Show reliability in attending your assisting classes and communicate promptly if you are unwell or unable to attend

• Continue your own training and set an example in the way you learn and participate in your own classes

• Demonstrate professionalism in and out of the studio, including respectful communication with staff, students and parents

• Stay across studio information and respond to emails/messages in a timely manner

• Display confidence and initiative, including being comfortable talking with parents when needed

• Represent the culture and values of Dance Energy at all times, both in the classroom and as part of our wider team

There should also be a genuine intention to continue teaching at Dance Energy for 1–2 years after completing the program. We put significant time and energy into each Intern, and we value those who are committed to giving back to the studio community.

How to Apply

1. Complete the online application by clicking ‘Apply Here!’ (Google Form) - Submit your application by Friday 13th February 2026.

2. Shortlisting - After the closing date, applications and teacher references will be reviewed. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview.

3. Interview - A 20–30 minute interview with Miss Claire to discuss your goals, commitment and fit for the program.

4. Onboarding - A formal induction and first Intern training session will take place in early Term 1.

5. Program commencement
   The Intern Program officially commences in early Term 1, 2026. Class placements and mentoring times will be confirmed ahead of the start date.