Author Identifier
Andries Weidemann: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4577-8006
Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Master of Education
School
School of Education
First Supervisor
Christine Cunningham
Second Supervisor
Luke Hopper
Abstract
Across Australia, many ballet studios and ballet schools offer vocational ballet training (VBT). Known as ‘going part-time’ and ‘going full-time’, increased training volume requires significant time investment by child dancers who want to pursue ballet as a profession. This investment often results in changes to these dance students’ academic careers. The research investigated the VBT sector in Perth, Western Australia. Data on the number of training providers, sector participants and the physical and academic activities they engage in are reported. Findings include that similarities between activities in the sector and early youth sports specialisation environments exist, that VBT in Perth may be described as an early to intermediary specialisation activity requiring an early starting age followed by a flexible sampling period, and that some risks and benefits documented in early specialised sports training may be present in Perth vocational ballet settings. Discussion centres on data that supports sector-specific elements of practice that may increase benefits and risks for Perth VBT students, and the implications of embarking on the VBT journey for children. Recommendations for stakeholders such a teachers, parents and children are made. The significance of the research lies in it being the first of its kind to investigate and document distinct features of a discreet VBT sector in Australia, reporting foundational data from which further investigation may commence. It is hoped that the findings will benefit stakeholders with increased knowledge of sector practices and of the implications of deciding to ‘go part time’ or ‘full-time’.
Access Note
Access to this thesis is embargoed until 14th March 2031
Recommended Citation
Weidemann, A. (2026). “Going full-time”: An exploration of vocational ballet training in Perth, Western Australia. Edith Cowan University. https://doi.org/10.25958/8407-bb82