Primary students take the stage at Hervey Bay-based performing arts college

QUEENSLAND’S only regional dance and performance college has expanded and is now enrolling primary students.

COLLEGE EXPANSION: Grade 6 students can now enroll at Hervey Bay Performance Arts College. PHOTO: Supplied.

Hervey Bay Performance Arts College is now offering Grade 6 students a full-time program.

The move has allowed Grade 6 students to gain an early understanding of the school’s learning environment before they enter high school.

College Director Jonathon Heeley said they have received positive feedback from parents, with some saying they have noticed a change in their child’s attitudes towards school and learning.

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There are currently three full-time and several part-time Grade 6 students enrolled at the school.

Mr Heeley said they expect the number to increase in 2023.

“It has been something that we’ve been looking at for a number of years and waiting for the right time and students to come through,” Mr Heeley explained.

“Looking at the interest that we had and the talent of the younger generation, we really wanted to give them the opportunity not only to excel in their academics and understand how to be self-motivated learners but also their performing arts and hope that starting at a younger age will assist in their development.

“We are currently not thinking of expanding lower and are happy to be able to provide this grade which the other major cities are also offering.”

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Mr Heeley said the school, based in Thomas Street, is helping put Hervey Bay on the map in terms of the performing arts.

“This is such a unique development for our region, being the only school of this type in regional Queensland.

“We now have students from Hervey Bay, Maryborough and as far away as Bundaberg travelling to attend the school.”

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It’s not only enrolments that have been changed up a bit at the college though.

Facilities have been upgraded to create another academic classroom, giving seniors their own space and creating a room for juniors and primary students.

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“We’re all about giving our students an incredible experience as they move up through the school and the new classroom really helps with our students’ feeling of progression during their school journey,” explained Mr Heeley.

Parents who would like more information on the Hervey Bay Performing Arts College can request a prospectus online or call the college.