Curley Dance Studio

Curley Dance Studio is aimed at teaching the art of dance in a fun, fresh, safe and energetic environment. Curley Dance Studio is a proud member of Dance Arts Alliance a representative body for dance studios. School Principal, Samantha Coughlan operates the studio alongside her father Shane Curley as well as wonderful and talented staff. 
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We are focused on developing every student's ability by engaging each individual with a unique and modern approach to dancing that reflects the goals and interests of the individual student. It is imperative to us that we create a child safe environment based on the Child Safety Standards. We are trained by Keep Kids Safe in Dance and ensure that we are constantly working to create the best environment for our students. Throughout the year students are encouraged to participate in examinations which further excel ability and confidence. Curley Dance Studio is associated with the Australian Teachers of Dance (ATOD). 
 
We cater for students of all ages from Mini Movers to Adults and we pride ourselves on embracing students of all abilities, specialising in accommodating the classroom for students with special learning needs.
 
The close of the dance year brings students together in an annual performance. This is a fantastic chance for students to display their skills in front of family and friends. This is the highlight of the dancing calendar.

Curley Dance Studio aims to provide a community for our students where they can develop their skills, enjoy friendships and experience dance in a safe and encouraging environment.

What makes us different?

Celebrating our 12th year, Curley Dance Studio (C.D.S) prides itself on nurturing a profound love for dance among our students. At C.D.S, our teaching team prioritises the happiness and well-being of our dancers. Recognising that schooling remains a primary commitment for many, we've structured our timetable to accommodate with their evolving needs as individuals.

Setting us apart from many studios, our focus lies in building a tight-knit community. With limited enrolment, we aim to personally know each student, offering a single weekly session per age group. This deliberate approach fosters lasting friendships as students progress through the years. While we emphasise a recreational approach, our studio maintains high standards for dance education. Our students consistently attain excellent technical abilities through age-appropriate stages that prioritise their physical and emotional development. Examination participation is hight at our studio as our emphasis is on the positive journey and growth that the experience provides, rather than fixating solely on the outcome. Some students may choose to participate in competitions, again our focus remains on the learning process, celebrating small wins, and continual improvement, understanding that true fulfilment in dance doesn't hinge on winning trophies.
​With a team comprising of many educators and health professionals, our studio warmly welcomes students with diverse learning needs. We wholeheartedly believe that dance is inclusive and strive to create an environment that fosters this belief.

Our studio stands as a unique and cherished space for dance, where these principles are just a glimpse into how we ensure an enriching experience for our students.

Samantha Coughlan- School Principal

Sam has a Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Arts from Monash University. She has also completed her Certificate in Classical Dance, Diploma of Tap Dancing and Certificate in Jazz Dancing through the Teachers of Australian Academy of Dancing.

Sam is an associate member of the Australian Teachers of Dance and member of Dance Arts Alliance. Further, Sam has completed Beginner and Intermediate training in AcroDance Australia. Sam has recently completed training for the Child Safety Standards with Keep Kids Safe in Dance. Additional to this Sam holds a Level 2 First Aid/CPR certificate and she holds a VIT registration. In 2024, Sam will be undertaking further acrobatics training with the Acrobatic Dance Association as well as Progressing Ballet Technique.

Outside of the studio Sam has three wonderful young children two who are now embarking on their journey with dance. Sam continues to work as a secondary school teacher and volunteers with organisations such as the DAISY project which supports new mothers.