Business Details
50 Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance Academy in Park Orchards
Parkwood Dance Academy has been a leader in dance education since 1976, providing personalized programs for dancers of all ages and abilities. Our mission is to create a positive and supportive environment where students develop technical skill, creativity, and confidence. With over 49 years of experience, we combine disciplined training with a family-oriented atmosphere, ensuring every student feels safe and inspired. Our team of highly qualified teachers delivers 70+ weekly classes across diverse styles, from ballet to contemporary. We pride ourselves on maintaining national and international standards while fostering inclusivity and community.Our success is reflected in our 100% record of students gaining admission to their preferred tertiary dance courses. The academys purpose-built facility in Park Orchards features four professional studios designed to enhance learning. Under the Hof familys leadership since 1992, we continue Marlene Mayalls legacy of excellence and accessibility in dance education. Our values of family, quality, and support guide every aspect of our operations, making us a trusted choice for generations of dancers.
Services
Ballet Classes
Jazz Dance
Contemporary Dance
VET Dance Certificates
Adult Dance Classes
Preschool Dance
Tap Dance
Performance Training
Dance Examinations
Community Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We offer 49 years of expertise in dance education since 1976.
- Our 70+ weekly classes cater to all ages and dance styles.
- 100% success rate in securing tertiary dance course placements.
- Personalised programs with highly qualified, globally certified teachers.
- Purpose-built studios with professional dance flooring and facilities.
What people say
Supportive environment
Lifelong friendships
Qualified teachers
Tertiary course success
Creative learning
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program builds discipline, strength, and technical precision through structured training. Students progress from foundational techniques to advanced styles like neo-classical and character dance. With a focus on musicality and vocabulary, our classes prepare dancers for professional pathways while maintaining accessibility for all skill levels.
VET Dance Certificates
VET Dance Certificates I-III provide secondary students with industry-recognised qualifications. The program integrates performance skills, choreography, and theoretical knowledge, offering a pathway to tertiary education or professional dance careers. Flexible enrolment allows students to join throughout the year.
Contemporary Dance
Contemporary classes develop versatility through dynamic movements, core strength, and expressive techniques. Designed for mature dancers, the curriculum emphasizes abstract lines, speed changes, and self-expression, fostering creativity while maintaining technical rigor in a supportive learning environment.
Adult Dance Classes
Casual adult classes in jazz, ballet, and tap cater to beginners and returning dancers. These sessions focus on physical and cognitive benefits through enjoyable, low-pressure instruction. Participants improve fitness, coordination, and social connections in a welcoming community setting.
Preschool Dance
Tiny Tots and Tiny Dancers programs introduce 1-5 year olds to dance through imaginative play. Using props, themed lessons, and music, we develop motor skills, rhythm, and confidence. Parent participation ensures a nurturing start to dance education in a joyful, interactive environment.
People
Myffie Hof
Director
Myffie brings 30+ years of experience in performing arts education and examinations. She has led Parkwood Dance Academy since 1992, upholding its legacy of excellence while expanding its community impact through inclusive programs.
Elyse Hof
Co-Director
Elyse contributes extensive expertise in dance production and teaching. As part of the Hof family leadership team, she ensures the academy maintains high standards in technical training and student support systems.
Jessica Hof
Academy Manager
Jessica oversees daily operations with a focus on student welfare and program quality. Her background in dance education and community engagement strengthens the academys commitment to accessible, family-centred learning.
Marlene Mayall
Founder
Marlene established Parkwood Dance Academy in 1976, creating a foundation for generations of dancers. Her vision of inclusive, high-quality dance education continues to shape the academys values and teaching philosophy.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We offer classes for toddlers (12 months+), children, teens, and adults, with programs tailored to each developmental stage.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes! New students can book a one-week trial to experience our classes before committing to enrollment.
What dance styles are available?
We teach ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, pointe, and VET dance programs, with performance opportunities across all styles.
How do you support student progression?
Our teachers provide personalized feedback and pathway planning, with a 100% success rate in tertiary dance course placements.
Are uniforms required?
Yes, we have specific uniform requirements for most classes to maintain professional standards and class cohesion.
Where are your studios located?
Our purpose-built facility is at Domeney Recreation Centre, 52 Knees Rd, Park Orchards, featuring four professional dance studios.
Reviews (2)
Michelle Perry
Aug 15, 2018
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My daughter has been attending Parkwood for over 10 years. It has been such a nurturing and positive environment for her to be in. They create a home away from home for their students. The teachers are all fantastic and offer a high standard of technique and performance in every style of dance that they offer. I couldnt recommend this school more.
Cj
Aug 26, 2017
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Great place its my fourth year and I am fully in love with this place, the staff are so kind and sweet and the people are great at the academy.
