International Summer School

Let the dancing begin! Have fun everyone!

Less than 24 hours to go! We’re officially counting down to the start of ISS — and we can’t wait to welcome you into the studio tomorrow. The energy is building, the faculty are ready!

Students were emailed an Information Pack with everything you need to know before attending — what to bring, daily expectations, attire guidance, arrival details, and more. Please take a moment to re‑read it today so you feel fully prepared and confident walking in on Day 1.

If you still have questions about attire, location, parking, daily schedule, or anything else, our FAQ (https://www.mcdonald.nsw.edu.au/iss-faq) page is a great place to check first. And of course, if you can’t find what you’re looking for, you’re always welcome to get in touch — we’re here to help.

See you tomorrow… it’s almost showtime. 💛🩰🙌

We’d like to invite dance teachers to observe our ISS2026 Visiting Faculty teaching the Senior and Pre-Professional Program and have a discussion at the end of the day.

Our Faculty in 2026 comprises Lachlan Monaghan, Principal Dancer with the Birmingham Royal Ballet and Bronte Kelly, former Principal Dancer with the Royal New Zealand Ballet join us as guest faculty – along with an exceptional returning faculty of guest teachers and choreographers, including Steve Rooks from Vassar College New York and Paul Boyd from the Queensland Ballet Academy.

Wednesday, 14 January 2026, $50

Limited places available.

Register here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1431425

Time is running out! Use code EARLYBIRD2026 for a 10% discount until 31 October.

If you're a past ISS participant or a current student of The McDonald College or After Hours, you're eligible for an additional 10% off. Check your inbox for your exclusive discount code, or reach out to us directly.

Secure your spot and start your summer with inspiration. 🌞

Meet the team: Kristen Hockley

Kristen’s journey began at The McDonald College, where her love for musical theatre, choreography, and teaching took root. Today, she’s the Dance Development Officer for Sports Tots—a program she created to bring dance into early childhood centres—and a certified Ready Set Dance and Ready Set Ballet teacher.

Her choreographic credits include Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Miranda Musical Society) and Jersey Boys (Engadine Musical Society), while her performance career spans iconic productions from Priscilla to Moulin Rouge, Folies Bergere, Grease Fever, and beloved classics like Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Lion King, and Footloose.
Kristen will be leading Junior Jazz, Musical Theatre, and Lyrical classes—bringing energy, storytelling, and heart to every step.

Meet the Team: Sian Sherwood

With a rich foundation in RAD Ballet, CSTD Tap, Jazz, and Theatrical styles, Sian brings both depth and versatility to her teaching. Her journey has taken her from Macarthur Ballet Studio to the Victorian State Ballet’s Pre-Professional program, where she performed in full-length productions including Gabriel, The Magic Toy Shop, Snow White, Cinderella, and the Australian premiere of Le Corsaire.

Sian holds certifications in Progressing Ballet Technique and Ready Set Dance, and completed her Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies through the Royal Academy of Dance—earning Distinctions at every level.

She’ll be guiding our Junior Classical Ballet, Repertoire, and Character classes with grace, precision, and a passion for nurturing young dancers.

We are always thrilled to have him on - Paul Boyd — Academy Ballet Master and Resident Choreographer at Queensland Ballet Academy, and a returning master to our 2026 International Summer School program.

Paul brings extraordinary depth to our Classical Ballet stream. From dancing the title role in Spartacus at Italy’s Summer Arts Festival to guest appearances across the US, Europe, Asia, and Africa, Paul’s artistry has captivated audiences worldwide. His repertoire includes principal roles in the great classics and collaborations with renowned choreographers.

Paul has also shaped the next generation of dancers as a guest teacher and choreographer for institutions like the Royal Ballet School (London), Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, Deutsche Oper am Rhein, and The Australian Ballet’s Bodytorque season.

Don’t miss this chance to train with one of ballet’s most inspiring figures.

🩰 Monday 12 – Friday 16 Januar
📍 Limited spots available — book via internationalsummerschool.com.au - link in bio.

Calling all young movers and shakers! Our Junior Summer Program is the perfect mix of fun, creativity, and skill-building for aspiring dancers aged 7–12.

With exciting daily classes in a variety of dance styles and musical theatre, students will grow in technique, artistry, and flexibility — all while making new friends and unforgettable memories.

🎭💃 Let the rhythm spark their imagination!

📅 Monday 12 – Friday 16 January
Limited spots available — don’t miss out!

Register at https://www.mcdonald.nsw.edu.au/open-to-all/international-summer-school/