The Lakes Development Programs – 2026

The Lakes Development Programs are specialised, high-engagement learning opportunities designed to extend students beyond the traditional classroom. Each program provides access to expert instruction, small-group learning, industry-level experiences, and an environment that nurtures creativity, discipline, teamwork, and personal growth.

These programs allow students to dive deeper into their passions — whether in the arts, dance, textiles, or athletic performance — while building confidence, independence, and advanced technical skills.

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What Makes the Development Programs Unique?

• Expert-led sessions tailored to the developmental needs of young creatives and athletes.
• Small group environments that prioritise individualised feedback and accelerated learning.
• Authentic industry experiences such as workshops, incursions, guest instructors, professional facilities, or performance opportunities.
• Student agency and creativity, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning through meaningful choice, creative problem-solving, and opportunities to contribute ideas, techniques, and direction within the program.
• Discipline, teamwork, and wellbeing, promoting strong habits of discipline, teamwork, and personal wellbeing—supporting students to work consistently, support one another, and develop confidence in themselves as learners and performers.
• Holistic growth, across all programs, students develop a balance of creativity, technical skill, resilience, and collaboration, preparing them to thrive within their chosen discipline and beyond.

Athlete Development Program (ADP)

The Athlete Development Program is a specialised initiative designed to support students in developing their athletic potential, leadership, and personal wellbeing. Combining practical training, theory, and community engagement, the program equips students with the skills, discipline, and confidence required to excel in sport and life.
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Students in the Athlete Development Program will:

• Receive a personalised gym and conditioning program tailored to individual goals.
• Participate in sport-specific skill development sessions to enhance performance and confidence.
• Access incursions and excursions that connect them with elite sporting environments, guest speakers, and professional facilities.
• Complete regular performance testing to track strength, speed, agility, and overall fitness growth.
• Receive recognition for achievement, including certificates and an annual award for major improvement.

The program builds resilient, motivated young athletes who understand discipline, goal-setting, and the importance of teamwork and wellbeing.

Dance Development Program

The Dance Development Program is designed for students who demonstrate interest and potential in dance performance, choreography, and creative expression. The program provides specialised training, performance opportunities, and clear pathways into senior arts programs, while fostering discipline, teamwork, and artistic confidence.

Students in the Dance Development Program will:

• Develop technical and expressive skills across multiple genres (contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical).
• Build creativity through student-devised choreography and collaborative composition.
• Access performance and leadership opportunities within the Performing Arts department.
• Strengthen confidence, teamwork, and discipline through structured training and rehearsal processes.

The program nurtures emerging dancers into confident, capable performers who can thrive in both ensemble and independent creative settings.

Artist Development Program

The Artist Development Program is designed for students who are eager to deepen their skills in Visual Art and/or Textiles. Through hands-on exploration and guided practice, students develop technical ability, creative imagination, and confidence in expressing their artistic ideas.

Students in the Artist Development Program will:

• Explore a range of mediums such as drawing, painting, and cardboard sculpture.
• Build practical skills in textile techniques including macramé and crochet.
• Exercise choice and ownership over the artform they wish to develop.
• Receive personalised guidance and near one-to-one support to refine technique and artistic voice.
• Produce high-quality artworks suitable for exhibition or personal portfolios.

The program empowers young artists to experiment, problem-solve, and grow their creative identity in a supportive studio environment

Program Structure

• Programs run once per week for one hour, typically before school.
• Students participate across the entire year, with opportunities to showcase learning through performance, exhibitions, or testing outcomes.
• Selection is based on passion, commitment, attitude, and willingness to grow, not prior experience.

Cost
A participation fee of $150 per term applies to all Development Programs.
This fee supports high-quality materials, specialised instruction, incursions/workshops, or performance resources depending on the program.

Who Can Apply?
Students from Year 7–9 who demonstrate enthusiasm, reliability, and a desire to extend themselves are encouraged to apply. No prior experience is required unless specified. Please note that students may apply for multiple Development Programs, however will only be accepted to one program.

​How to Apply
Applications are completed through the Development Programs Application Form.
Some programs may require an audition, portfolio, athlete testing, referee check, or additional supporting information.
Successful applicants will be notified via email with program-specific details.